The WZ1001(E) LCT (Long Cannon Testbed) (Chinese: WZ1001(E) 125毫米多功能火炮试验车; lit. 125 mm Multipurpose Gun Test Vehicle) was one of the prototypes for the project that would later become the ZTZ99A. Even before the ZTZ99 had been introduced to the PLAGF, plans were already in place for a new "3rd generation tank", with the ZTZ99 (industrial code WZ123) acting as a stop-gap measure until these new tanks could be deployed. As soon as the ZTZ99 was certified in the early 2000s, Institute 70 initiated the WZ1001 programme, exploring various designs led by the new chief designer Mao Ming (毛明). The WZ1001(E) LCT represents the second prototype of the WZ1001 programme, featuring a longer L/54 125 mm smoothbore cannon and a hull based on the ZTZ99-III. Due to cost considerations and worse reliability for the gun system, the LCT was ultimately scrapped, and the other prototype, equipped with an L/48 cannon, was certified as what is now known as the ZTZ99A.

Introduced in Update "Apex Predators", the WZ1001(E) LCT boasts performance largely identical to its (technological) successor, the ZTZ99A, though it benefits from superior gun handling thanks to its experimental gun layer and high muzzle velocity. However, bear in mind that the hybrid design, combining a ZTZ99 hull with a ZTZ99A-like turret, means it inherits the flaws of both. Players should exercise caution when utilising its impressive mobility to engage enemies – careful planning is essential for the tank's survivability.