Japanese auto manufacturers tend to be traditionalists and are often slow to make major changes to successful products. But on the first day of the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Lexus threw caution to the wind by unveiling the all-new Lexus LC500, a breakthrough coupé that clearly rockets the global automotive brand into a new era. Simply put, it’s Lexus’ first radical car concept to ultimately be built for the marketplace. And it's one badass car.

Four years after the original unveiling of their LF-LC Concept, Lexus surprised the industry by announcing that engineers and designers had been tweaking the radically-sporty design to enter production for the marketplace in 2017. After years of engineering challenges that many thought would be impossible, the result stays true to the original concept’s dramatic styling with new architecture that promises enhanced performance. The new flagship product symbolizes the company’s commitment to heightened collaboration between its design and engineering teams.   

“The LC 500 has been an important product for Lexus and me personally,” said Akio Toyoda, Chief Branding Officer and Master Driver for Lexus. “A few years ago, we decided to guide the future of the brand with products that had more passion and distinction in the luxury market. This flagship luxury coupe’s proportions, stunning design and performance make a strong statement about our brand’s emotional direction and will grow the Lexus luxury appeal globally.”

Accomplishing the difficult task of making a concept car a reality meant overcoming obstacles in the engineering, fabricating and manufacturing processes without compromising the design.

“At an early stage, the designers collaborated with the engineers to understand their image for the LC 500’s driving dynamics, and they incorporated this into the design,” said Tadao Mori, the chief designer of the LC 500. “For example, we gave serious consideration to where the driver’s eyes would focus and designed the surface shape in that area to help support a driver’s mindset. This project was one of the first times that designers were closely involved in the dynamic engineering development so we could understand the driving goals and support with the car’s design.”

No word on its price just yet, but we can’t wait to get behind the wheel of one.