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Sasha Selipanov's NILU Hypercar Revealed: A Nostalgic Return To Pure Driving
Nilu27, the hypercar brand established by renowned sports car designer Sasha Selipanov, has unveiled its first vehicle: the NILU hypercar. Following several social media teasers that stirred excitement among sports car enthusiasts, the complete car is now revealed. The NILU hypercar defies conventional automotive industry trends by eschewing electrification and digitalization to offer a raw driving experience.
The NILU hypercar's design draws inspiration from various sources, including '60s F1 and Le Mans racers, classic Italian design houses, Bauhaus philosophy, American muscle cars, drift cars, mathematics, and avant-garde metal music. Sasha aimed to create a car with an "inevitable" design—both fresh and familiar. The resulting exterior features tight cross sections and sinuous curves for a functional, aerodynamic look.
True to Bauhaus principles, the NILU hypercar avoids unnecessary styling elements to highlight essential functional beauty. The chassis incorporates a bespoke carbon fibre monocoque with lightweight aluminium-alloy tubular subframes. This choice enhances access to drivetrain components and facilitates heat extraction while celebrating the mechanical aesthetic.
The cabin of the NILU hypercar is designed for optimal ergonomics and safety. Despite its low roofline and compact dimensions, it comfortably seats two adults in a side-by-side layout. Gullwing doors, low sill heights, and fixed sunken seats ensure easy ingress and egress without obstructing door apertures.
The human-machine interface of the NILU hypercar focuses on manual controls for an unfiltered driving experience. The only screen present is for the rear-view camera/mirror to address mid-engined sports cars' traditional lack of rearward visibility. The steering wheel is compact and round without any switches or buttons, ensuring zero distractions during performance driving.
All adjustments in the NILU hypercar are manual, accessed through satisfying levers and switches. This includes the steering wheel, pedal box, headrest, and door mirrors. The open-gate seven-speed manual transmission celebrates analog driving while adding safety with its reverse gear lock-out.
Powerful V12 Engine
Nilu27 has collaborated with Hartley Engines in New Zealand to produce one of the most powerful naturally aspirated engines globally. The exposed engine bay showcases a 6.5-litre V12 that delivers over 1000 horsepower. This engine features refined combustion areas, high-flow ports, performance-style valve geometry, and 12 individual throttle bodies for instant response.
A unique "Hot V" configuration swaps conventional exhaust and intake positions for better packaging and heat extraction. This setup also highlights the stunning "snakepit" 12-into-1 exhaust headers as part of the exterior design. The entire exhaust system was 3D-printed in Inconel to achieve its complex design.
Exceptional Handling Dynamics
The NILU hypercar employs double wishbone pushrod suspension with long wishbones visible from the rear for precise handling characteristics. Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tyres are fitted on Nilu27 centrelock wheels designed in-house to reduce unsprung weight. Brembo provides carbon-ceramic braking equipment with custom white GT | BM calipers front and rear.
Limited Production Run
Sasha's vision for the NILU hypercar has been in development since 2006. Initially available in a limited run of 15 units, Sasha explained his approach: "My path in the industry has never been about following rules... Breaking conventions is simply a byproduct." He added that unveiling NILU is a profound moment after years of overthinking and learning from industry leaders.
The initial prototype vehicles will be assembled by Aria Group in Irvine, CA before Nilu27 ramps up its own facilities overseas. A street-homologated version limited to 54 units is also being developed; four will be unique one-off designs.
Future Prospects
Nilu27 plans to unveil the car at a private event in Los Angeles on August 8 before its public debut at Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance on August 18. Co-Founder Inna Selipanov noted that despite global trends towards electrification, they believe these timeless cars will remain relevant among passionate collectors.
Nilu27 enjoys support from industry leaders like Aerotak, AppTech, Aria Group, Brembo, CIMA, Hartley Engines, Michelin, and Schroth. Additionally, the NILU hypercar will debut in CSR Racing 2 this November for players to experience its performance virtually.
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