Long before there were a million EV startups, companies loved to announce plans for a new hypercar that would challenge Lamborghini and Ferrari. Unsurprisingly, many of these firms faded away almost as quickly as there were introduced. Nilu27 is looking for a different fate as they’ve introduced their new Nilu hypercar. Optimistically billed as “highly anticipated,” the company was founded by car designer Sasha Selipanov. While the name might not ring a bell, he’s had a hand in creating an assortment of high-profile models including the Bugatti Chiron, Koenigsegg Gemera, Lamborghini Huracan, and Genesis Mint concept – among others.
Given that pedigree, it’s not surprising
that design is front and center. The firm says the Nilu takes inspiration from
1960s F1 and Le Mans race cars as well as classic Italian design houses and old
school American muscle cars. As a result, it’s a little bit of everything and a
tad generic. However, the Nilu screams performance as it features two large
intakes that are surrounded by curvaceous LED lights. They’re joined by a
jet-like canopy that features gullwing doors, which promise best-in-class entry
and egress. Moving further back, we can see prominent side scoops as well as
20- and 21-inch wheels that are wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tires.
They’re backed up by a Brembo carbon ceramic braking system. The rear end has a
Pagani-like vibe with a center-mounted three-tip exhaust system, which was
3D-printed in Inconel. We can also see a massive diffuser and brake lights that
look like they were sourced from the bargain bin.
Moving inside, there’s a minimalist
cockpit focused on “manual, analog controls, inputs and feedback.” As part of
this effort, the only screen is the rearview camera mirror. While many people
can appreciate that, the obsession with “analog driving” borders on the
pathological. In particular, the company proudly proclaimed the “steering
wheel, pedal box, headrest, door mirrors and other adjustments are deliberately
manual.” This approach continues with the steering wheel, which is purposely
devoid of buttons and switches. It resides in front of large, circular gauges
as well as a minimalist dashboard. Other highlights include machined billet
controls as well as what appears to be ceiling-mounted toggle switches.
Power is provided by a naturally aspirated
6.5-liter V12 from Hartley Engines. It purportedly produces 1,070 hp and 860 Nm of torque, although the press release only
mentioned an output in excess of 1,000 hp. Questionable numbers and
communication aside, the engine is connected to a seven-speed manual
transmission. The company strangely listed the 0-100 km/h time as
“driver-dependent,” but claimed the car will be able to hit a limited top speed
of 400 km/h. Rounding out the highlights are a double wishbone,
pushrod suspension as well as a bespoke carbon fiber monocoque chassis. The car
is also said to have a dry weight of 1,200 kg.
