Nilu27, a new automotive company founded by Sasha and Inna Selipanov, is set to make a significant impact on the hypercar market. Named after their daughters, Nica and Lucia, Nilu27 will debut its first model—a naturally aspirated V12 hypercar—at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance later this year.
A Legacy of Design Excellence
Sasha Selipanov, with over two decades of experience in automotive design, is a driving force behind Nilu27. His illustrious background includes work on iconic models such as the Lamborghini Huracán, Bugatti Chiron, and Koenigsegg Gemera. Selipanov’s expertise will be instrumental in shaping the design and development of Nilu27’s debut vehicle. The car embraces a purist approach, featuring a naturally aspirated V12 engine paired with a gated manual transmission and distinctive gullwing doors.
Innovative Design and Construction
The NILU hypercar stands out with its bespoke carbon fiber monocoque chassis, complemented by tubular aluminum-alloy subframes. The V12 engine, designed by New Zealand-based Hartley Engines, is a 6.5-liter 80-degree unit that promises a unique driving experience. This engine features an unconventional air intake and exhaust configuration, with individual throttle bodies positioned outside the “V” and exhausts exiting from the top in a “hot V” setup. The 12-into-1 Inconel exhaust, 3D-printed for its complex shape, ends in a tri-exit tip inspired by a space shuttle.
Design Inspiration and Philosophy
Sasha Selipanov’s design inspiration draws from Italian race cars of the 1960s and 1970s, as well as the German Bauhaus movement. Despite its retro influence, the NILU is built with modern materials, including a carbon fiber body and aluminum alloy subframes. Selipanov’s design philosophy is rooted in breaking conventions and pursuing an elevated automotive experience, as reflected in the hypercar’s design and performance.
Striking Exterior and Interior Features
The Nilu27 hypercar features an aggressive stance with a wide, twin-scoop front end reminiscent of race cars. The 20-inch five-spoke wheels and dramatic rearward sweep enhance its dynamic presence. The car’s rear profile includes a broad scoop and central cluster of exhaust pipes, evoking the GT40’s snake pit design. Inside, the NILU opts for a minimalist, analog aesthetic with a single rear-view mirror screen, a round, buttonless steering wheel, and fixed seats. Adjustable pedals and door mirrors are controlled via levers and switches.
Performance and Specifications
Under the hood, the Nilu27 is powered by a naturally aspirated 6.5-liter V12 engine developed with Hartley Engines. This engine delivers 1,070 bhp and 860 Nm of torque, revving beyond 10,000 rpm. The 12-into-1 3D-printed Inconel exhaust system not only provides a powerful soundtrack but also serves as a dramatic design element. The hypercar is expected to reach a top speed of approximately 402 km/h and accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in under three seconds.
Limited Production and Unveiling
Nilu27 plans to publicly unveil the hypercar on August 15 at Pebble Beach during Car Week. The initial production run will be limited to just 15 units, making it a highly exclusive offering for enthusiasts.