Meet the NILU: The V-12 Hypercar That Puts Driving Purists Back in the Driver's Seat
The automotive world has a new contender in the hypercar arena, with the unveiling of NILU, a remarkable creation by the freshly established brand Nilu27. Founded by the legendary designer Sasha Selipanov, known for his striking works with Koenigsegg and Bugatti, this hypercar is designed for the purists. In a market overflowing with tech-laden vehicles leveraging electric hybrid assistance and turbocharging, the NILU stands as an audacious return to form, embodying the primal joys of driving with its naturally aspirated V-12 engine and delectable gated manual transmission—complete with nostalgic gullwing doors.
Craftsmanship and Engineering
The NILU is not just a nostalgic ride; it's the epitome of engineering sophistication. Beneath its aggressive yet elegant exterior lies a bespoke carbon fiber monocoque, reinforced by tubular aluminum-alloy subframes that provide both lightness and strength. The engine, designed by Hartley Engines in New Zealand, is a potent 6.5-liter V-12 that Nilu27 claims will “‘rev like an electric motor,” showcasing not only meticulous engineering but an invitation to drivers to experience an exhilarating ride.
An Engine with a Difference
One of the standout features of the NILU's design is the unique configuration of its V-12 engine. Unlike traditional automotive engines where air intake is located inside the engine’s “V” while exhausts are located outside, the NILU flips this concept entirely. Here, the individual throttle bodies are placed externally, while the exhaust exits stylishly on top, forming a “hot V” setup. This arrangement is complemented by a stunning 12-into-1 Inconel exhaust line, 3D-printed to match its intricate design and featuring a tri-exit tip reportedly inspired by the aesthetics of space shuttles. While Nilu27 has yet to disclose exact power figures, the assurance of exceeding 1,000 horsepower signals that this hypercar is not merely a museum piece but a beast ready to be unleashed on the asphalt.
The Pure Driving Experience
Delving inside the NILU, you are immediately greeted by a keen focus on the driving experience. Stripped of excessive technological distractions, the cabin features a seven-speed gated manual transmission crafted meticulously by CIMA. The shift knob draws inspiration from classic designs and ensures a tactile connection between the driver and the machine, eliminating the chances of accidentally shifting into reverse. This purist approach continues with the steering wheel, which boasts no buttons or drive modes, reinforcing the all-analog experience this hypercar embodies.
Suspension and Handling
Equipped with a double-wishbone, pushrod suspension setup, the NILU marries cutting-edge engineering with classic driving sensations. The car sits on a staggered set of centerlock wheels, sizes 20 and 21 inches, and is wrapped in high-performance Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2R tires. Enhancing its braking capabilities, the NILU features carbon-ceramic brake systems from Brembo, ensuring control and performance under the most demanding conditions.
The Future of Hypercars
Nilu27 has announced plans to construct only 15 exclusive launch-edition NILU hypercars, though it remains ambiguous whether these units will be street-legal. Following the initial batch, the company has aspirations to create an additional 54 street-homologated units. Enthusiasts can look forward to catching their first glimpse of the NILU at the prestigious Pebble Beach during Monterey Car Week, scheduled for August 15. Manufacturing will initially take place in Irvine, California, before transferring production overseas.
A Testament to Timelessness