Nilu27, a new automotive company founded by designer Sasha Selipanov, is disrupting the trend of electrified supercars by taking a different approach. Instead of relying on electrification or turbochargers, Nilu27 is harnessing the power of a naturally-aspirated V12 engine, similar to Gordon Murray Automotive’s GMA T.50.
The inspiration for the Nilu hypercar comes from the golden era of Formula 1 racers in the 1960s, Le Mans cars, and the iconic designs of Italian design houses. To ensure optimal performance, the hypercar features a bespoke carbon fiber monocoque with lightweight aluminum subframes. The tubular design of the frames not only helps in dissipating heat but also facilitates easier powertrain maintenance.
Under the hood lies a 6.5-liter 80-degree V12 engine, manufactured by Hartley Engines in New Zealand. This engine, lacking electrification or turbos, is expected to generate an astonishing 1,000 horsepower. Despite the absence of electric motors, the large bore and short stroke of the engine promise a rev-happy personality, akin to the behavior of hybrid and electric vehicles.
The power from the V12 engine is channeled through a seven-speed CIMA manual transmission, providing drivers with an engaging and visceral experience. To handle the immense heat and stress generated by the engine, Nilu27 has 3D-printed all the exhaust components using Inconel, a nickel-chromium superalloy renowned for its ability to withstand extreme conditions.
Ensuring excellent grip and stopping power, the Nilu hypercar is equipped with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tires wrapped around 20-inch front and 21-inch rear wheels, while Brembo carbon-ceramic brakes provide confidence-inspiring stopping capabilities.
Moving to the interior, the Nilu hypercar boasts a wild Bauhaus-inspired design. The focus is on the essentials, with a gated shifter and racing seats equipped with harnesses. The center-mounted tachometer takes center stage on the dashboard, emphasizing the car’s performance-oriented nature. Embracing an old-school, analog feel, the car’s cabin only features a rearview camera mirror as its screen, rejecting excessive digitalization.
In terms of manufacturing, Nilu27 has partnered with Aria Group in Irvine, California, for the production of its first vehicles. However, the company has its sights set on expanding its reach overseas. The initial production run of the Nilu hypercar will be limited to 15 units, but Nilu has plans to create a street-going variant, with up to 54 cars built. Four of these will be unique, one-off designs, adding to the exclusivity of the Nilu hypercar.
In a world where electrification dominates the supercar landscape, Nilu27’s focus on a naturally-aspirated V12 engine demonstrates the company’s commitment to delivering a pure, raw, and exhilarating driving experience. By combining nostalgic design inspiration with cutting-edge engineering, Nilu27 has created a hypercar that stands apart from the crowd, appealing to enthusiasts who value the art of driving and the essence of motoring heritage.
