By: IOL Motoring Staff
Tokyo Motor Show - It's safe to say that the Lexus LS has faded quite far from the limelight over the years, but that could be set to change radically if the new LF-FC Concept is anything to go by.
But was it ever in the limelight? Well, the original Lexus LS of the late '80s grabbed its fair share of attention due to its sheer quality, and its audacity in trying to take on the German establishment, but since then subsequent generations of this large Lexus have evolved into rather anonymous machines that no one really ever sees or talks about anymore.
Yet the next generation is certain to take a more daring approach, in line with the company's L-Finesse design philosophy and the new LF-FC Concept is here to give us some clues. Lexus says its new design study, revealed at the Tokyo Motor Show this week, offers "a peek into the design and technology of the Japanese luxury marque's future flagship sedan".
Its bodywork certainly is rather sleek, while frontal styling is striking to say the least with a huge spindle grille and L-shaped daytime running lights and the rear end is just as 'out there' with its 'floating' themed taillights.
Yet the Lexus concept takes an even bigger leap of faith when it comes to the power source, which is a powerful fuel cell power system that feeds all four wheels. The system places the fuel-cell stack at the rear of the vehicle while the power control unit sits up front, allowing for optimal weight distribution.
An equally futuristic cabin greets occupants with posh aniline leather seats that appear to be floating and a hologram interface that can be operated by hand gestures.
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