Lexus International President Tokuo Fukuichi, left, poses with Lexus concept car at the media preview of the Tokyo Motor Show in Tokyo Wednesday, Oct. 28, 2015. The biennial exhibition of vehicles in Japan runs for the public from Friday, Oct. 30.Shuji Kajiyama/The Associated Press
What is it?
Toyota Motor Corporation, aiming to position Lexus as a leading aspirational brand, presented a flagship luxury sedan - the LF-FC - at the Tokyo Motor Show to showcase the company's direction in design and technology.
Signature feature
Following parent company Toyota's Mirai, Lexus introduces a high-output fuel cell power system that energizes the rear wheels and also sends power to two in-wheel motors in the front, enabling precise torque distribution, the company says. The strategic placement of the fuel-cell stack at the rear of the vehicle, power control unit at the front and T-formation configured hydrogen fuel tanks result in optimal front and rear weight balance for all-wheel drive performance.
What else is new?
A new mesh design on the signature grille is bracketed by L-shaped daytime running lights. Twenty-one inch wheels are reinforced by carbon-fibre. Passengers have the option of using hand gestures to operate infotainment and ventilation. Rear seats recline, with ample head and knee space. Luxury is amplified by aniline leather on the seats, doors and dashboard. Automated driving and traffic environment recognition enhance safety.
When can we buy it and at what price?
While remaining in the "concept" stage, a production-ready version may be available as soon as next spring's Geneva auto show, given that the Mirai is a hot seller in Japan and California. It would presumably push six figures. Toyota is supporting construction of fueling stations in New England; given that the hydrogen is coming from Quebec-based Air Liquide, fuel-cell cars may arrive sooner than later in Eastern Canada.
Cool quotient
4 stars (out of 5)
Lexus cites safety, efficiency, driving experience and advanced safety technology in an environmentally friendly package.
The writer was a guest of the auto maker. Content was not subject to approval.
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