In 2019, when Japanese luxury brand Lexus will introduce a new LS full-size luxury sedan, the firm has decided that the big barge will gain hydrogen propulsion as an option. This radical new proposal is undoubtedly due to the success of Toyota’s Mirai hydrogen fuel cell car, which has established itself as a yardstick for new propulsion technology.
The LS, which is Lexus’ answer to cars like the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, BMW 7-Series, and Jaguar XJ, will likely be based on the LF-FC concept car that first broke cover in 2015. Although the hydrogen LS will likely steal headlines, the luxury saloon will also offer more conventional drivetrain options, like a V8 hybrid setup capable of over 370kW.
Boss of Lexus Europe, Alain Uyttenhoven commented, “We know how to make fuel cells, and the only challenge is how to package a fuel cell in a car that also needs a certain level of performance. Premium buyers have certain expectations. For refinement, the fuel cell is ideal. But we must also do some work to demonstrate the right levels of performance.” Uyttenhoven, however, did not specifically mention the plans for the LS.
If it follows in the footsteps of the LF-LC concept car, the hydrogen LS may gain four-wheel drive. The concept car had no less than three electric engines: One powering the rear wheels, and two powering each front wheel individually. Lexus said that this gave the car “exceptional dynamic handling, and superior road stability.” The LF-LC also enjoyed ‘Acceleration’ and ‘Cruising’ driving modes, where the latter would focus on battery recharging and efficiency, while the former focused almost entirely on out-and-out performance.
With the infrastructure for hydrogen growing day by day, Lexus remains rather reserved about the possible sales targets for the hydrogen LS. The sales will be “in hundreds, not thousands,” and will largely be concentrated in cities like London, Los Angeles, Paris, and Tokyo.
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