NILU Hypercar goes from concept to production, but in very limited numbers.
The NILU Hypercar Concept is a new offering from a new brand founded by Geogian-born German auto designer Sasha Selipanov, who used to work for Koenigsegg. This groundbreaking vehicle challenges conventional trends in the hypercar segment, promising an uncompromising and pure driving experience.
Uncompromising Design Philosophy
The NILU hypercar stands out by eschewing modern trends such as electrification and digitalization. Instead, it embraces a raw, analog approach to deliver an uncensored driving experience. Selipanov’s design draws inspiration from diverse sources, including 1960s Formula 1 and Le Mans racers, classic Italian design, Bauhaus principles, American muscle cars, and even avant-garde metal music.
The exterior of the NILU features tight cross-sections and sinuous curves, resulting in a functional, lean, and aerodynamic silhouette. True to its “form follows function” ethos, the car juxtaposes clean sculptural surfaces with an intricately detailed, exposed engine bay.
Cutting-Edge Chassis and Cabin Design
At the heart of the NILU is a bespoke carbon fiber monocoque chassis with lightweight aluminum-alloy tubular subframes. This design choice not only improves access to drivetrain components but also enhances heat extraction and celebrates the car’s mechanical aesthetic.
The cabin accommodates two adults in a side-by-side layout, featuring an incredibly low roofline without compromising comfort. Large gullwing doors, low sill heights, and fixed, sunken seats ensure best-in-class ingress and egress.
Analog Interface and Manual Controls
Staying true to its purist philosophy, the NILU’s human-machine interface is dominated by manual, analog controls. The only screen present is the rear-view camera/mirror. The compact, perfectly round steering wheel is devoid of buttons or switches, emphasizing the need for full concentration during performance driving.
A standout feature is the open-gate, seven-speed manual transmission, which not only celebrates analog driving but also incorporates a safety element with its reverse gear lock-out. All adjustments, from the steering wheel to the pedal box, are manual, accessed through tactile levers and switches.
Powerful Naturally Aspirated V12 Engine
Nilu27 has partnered with Hartley Engines of New Zealand to create one of the most powerful naturally aspirated engines in the world. The NILU boasts a 6.5-liter, 80-degree V12 engine, designed to deliver over 1000 horsepower without relying on electrification.
Key features of this bespoke engine include:
- Large bore and short stroke for high-revving capabilities
- Refined combustion area and high-flow ports
- 12 individual throttle bodies for instant response
- Unique “Hot V” configuration for improved packaging and heat extraction
- 3D-printed Inconel exhaust system with 12-into-1 “snakepit” headers
The engine is mated to a seven-speed CIMA manual transmission and housed in a ceramic-coated aluminum-alloy subframe.
Performance-Focused Dynamics
The NILU employs a double wishbone, pushrod suspension system with exceptionally long wishbones visible from the rear, contributing to precise and compliant handling. It rides on Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tires (265/35 R20 front, 325/30 R21 rear) mounted on custom-designed Nilu27 centerlock wheels produced by AppTech.
Braking is handled by Brembo’s GT | BM calipers and CCM-R Plus carbon-ceramic rotors, ensuring outstanding performance and fade resistance.
Limited Production and Future Plans
The NILU hypercar will initially be limited to just 15 units. Nilu27 is also developing a street-homologated version, with production capped at 54 units, including four unique one-off designs.
Assembly of the prototype and initial customer cars will be carried out by Aria Group in Irvine, California, as Nilu27 establishes its own overseas facilities.
