A fresh entrant in the supercar arena has emerged. Nilu27, established by the designer behind Koenigsegg and Bugatti, Sasha Selipanov, has unveiled its inaugural vehicle: the NILU. This car opts for a more traditional approach, eschewing advanced technologies such as turbocharging or hybrid systems in favor of a naturally aspirated V-12 engine paired with a gated manual transmission. It also boasts gullwing doors.
The NILU hypercar isn't entirely rooted in the past, though. Its striking exterior is supported by a custom carbon fiber monocoque, complemented by a series of aluminum-alloy subframes. The V-12 engine, crafted by Hartley Engines in New Zealand, is a 6.5-liter, 80-degree configuration that Nilu27 claims will rev like an electric motor. This engine features a unique setup with external throttle bodies and a top-exit exhaust in a 'hot V' arrangement, using a 3D-printed 12-into-1 Inconel exhaust that terminates in a tri-exit tip, inspired by a space shuttle according to journalist Jonny Lieberman. Nilu27 estimates the engine will deliver over 1000 horsepower.
Nilu emphasizes that its hypercar is designed for driver engagement, featuring exclusively a seven-speed gated manual transmission from CIMA, equipped with a distinctive pole-like shift knob and a locking mechanism to prevent accidental reverse engagement, akin to the setup on a Lamborghini Countach. Inside the NILU, simplicity reigns; the steering wheel lacks buttons, and there are no drive modes. The only display is integrated into the rear-view mirror for enhanced rear visibility. The cabin features fixed seats and manually adjustable components like the pedal box and headrest, controlled by machined levers and switches, emphasizing an analog driving experience.
Mechanically, the NILU is fitted with double-wishbone, pushrod suspension and rides on 20- and 21-inch staggered centerlock wheels wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2R tires, housing Brembo carbon-ceramic brakes. Nilu plans to produce 15 launch-edition NILU hypercars, with an additional 54 street-legal units planned, suggesting the initial 15 will be track-only vehicles. The NILU will be publicly showcased at Pebble Beach during Monterey Car Week on August 15, with initial prototypes and customer cars assembled in Irvine, California before production shifts overseas.
"We’ve been thrilled and humbled by the response to our social media teasers alone," remarked co-founder and COO Inna Selipanov. "While the world is shifting towards electrification, for valid reasons, we strongly believe the enduring appeal of these cars will ensure their relevance and continued presence in the collections of ardent car enthusiasts."
