Nilu27 Is a new name has emerged in the world of supercars. This innovative brand, established by Sasha Selipanov, a designer with a background at Koenigsegg and Bugatti, has just unveiled its debut model, the NILU. Eschewing the modern trends of turbocharging and hybrid technologies, the NILU opts for a more classic approach. It features a naturally aspirated V-12 engine paired with a traditional gated manual transmission and is even equipped with iconic gullwing doors.
The Nilu27 team draws inspiration from various automotive eras and styles, including the 1960s Formula 1 and Le Mans race cars, classic Italian design traditions, and vintage American muscle cars. This blend of influences results in a vehicle that showcases a bit of everything, though some might find its design somewhat conventional.
The NILU exudes performance with its bold design, highlighted by prominent intakes framed by curvaceous LED lights. Its jet-like canopy, complete with gullwing doors, is designed to provide superior ease of entry and exit. The car features substantial side scoops and sports 20- and 21-inch wheels wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tires, supported by a high-performance Brembo carbon ceramic braking system. The rear design evokes a Pagani-like aesthetic with its center-mounted three-tip exhaust system, crafted using 3D-printed Inconel. A large diffuser and brake lights complete the rear, although the latter have a somewhat generic appearance.
Inside, the NILU presents a minimalist cockpit that prioritizes manual, analog controls and driver feedback. The only digital display in the cabin is the rearview camera mirror, staying true to its focus on traditional driving experiences.
Despite its old-school ethos, the NILU incorporates some modern engineering. It is built on a custom carbon fiber monocoque chassis, complemented by tubular aluminum-alloy subframes. The V-12 engine, developed by Hartley Engines from New Zealand, is a 6.5-liter 80-degree unit designed to rev smoothly, akin to an electric motor. It is reported to deliver 1,070 horsepower and 860 Nm of torque, although the official release only specifies a power output exceeding 1,000 hp.
The engine is mated to a seven-speed manual transmission. The company has disclosed the car’s 0-100 km/h acceleration time but has also mentioned a top speed limited to 400 km/h, which adds to its high-performance credentials. Additional features include a double wishbone pushrod suspension and the aforementioned bespoke carbon fiber monocoque chassis, contributing to a dry weight of 1,200 kg.
Nilu27 plans to produce 15 launch-edition NILUs, though it remains unclear if these vehicles will be street-legal. The company also intends to build 54 "street homologated" versions, suggesting that the initial 15 may be intended for track use only. The NILU is set to make its public debut at Pebble Beach during Monterey Car Week on August 15. The first batch of prototypes and customer cars will be assembled in Irvine, California, before production shifts to an international location.