Lexus’ new range-topping LS sedan will debut at the upcoming Detroit motor show in January 2017, before going on sale internationally in 2018. It will then be launched with a hydrogen power option in 2019, as the firm looks to capitalise on fuel cell technology leadership established by its parent company through the Toyota Mirai.

The new LS is expected to be a technological showpiece for Lexus, with several autonomous driving functions, a new-look interior that includes front and rear touchscreen and features such as a gesture-controlled infotainment system. It will be based on the new Lexus GA-L platform, which will first be used on the new Lexus LC500 and LC500h sportscars.

The sedan will be based heavily on the LF-FC concept car that was unveiled at the Tokyo motor show in 2015. It is also expected to be sold with the choice of a V8 hybrid powertrain producing around 542hp.

Lexus Europe head, Alain Uyttenhoven, said, “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.” He, however, did not confirm plans for the LS.

The hydrogen-powered LF-FC concept had one electric motor driving the rear wheels, with electricity being sent to two in-wheel electric motors at the front. Its drive system allowed it to precisely distribute torque to all four wheels, resulting in exceptional dynamic handling and superior road stability. In addition, placing the power control unit at the front and hydrogen storage tanks in a ‘T’ configuration were said to allow for optimal weight distribution for a sports sedan.

The LF-FC also had two driving modes – Cruising and Acceleration. In Cruising mode, the fuel cell stack drew on hydrogen and created electricity to drive the motor and recharge the battery. In Acceleration mode, both the battery and the fuel cell stack powered the car’s main electric motor and its in-wheel electric motors for maximum power.

When launched, the LS sedan will compete with the likes of the Audi A8, BMW 7-series, Jaguar XJ, and Mercedes S-class. Sales will be targeted in large cities such as London, Los Angeles, Paris and Tokyo, where diesel is expected to be outlawed by 2020.