Nilu27 V12 Engine Surpasses 1,055 HP in Lab Tests

Nilu27's naturally aspirated 6.5-liter V12 engine has successfully completed its first phase of dynamometer testing, surpassing its initial target of 1,055 horsepower. This 11,000-rpm powerplant, developed in collaboration with Hartley Engines, features an 80-degree "Hot V" layout and is paired with a seven-speed manual transmission. The hypercar startup, founded by former Bugatti and Koenigsegg designer Sasha Selipanov, aims to provide a purely analog driving experience, rejecting modern electrification and digital interfaces. The Nilu27 is designed with a Bauhaus philosophy, resembling a classic Le Mans endurance racer for the modern era.

The bespoke 6.5-liter V12 engine, a departure from current automotive industry trends, was developed alongside New Zealand-based Hartley Engines. During its initial laboratory testing, engineers observed the engine exceeding the projected 1,055 horsepower output while achieving an 11,000 rpm redline. To ensure maximum driver engagement, power is delivered to the rear wheels exclusively through a seven-speed manual transmission. The engineering team implemented an aggressive Hot V layout with an 80-degree bank angle, positioning sculpture-like exhaust headers between the cylinder heads. This design optimizes performance and packaging, allowing extreme heat to dissipate efficiently through the exposed rear engine bay, emphasizing mechanical drama over quiet efficiency.

Following these successful trial runs in New Zealand, the high-revving V12 engine will be transported to Nilu27's dedicated research and development facilities. The company plans to produce 15 track-only variants of the Nilu27 hypercar after German track evaluations. Subsequently, the focus will shift to manufacturing 54 street-legal models. This phased approach allows Nilu27 to refine the vehicle's performance and prepare for its market launch, underscoring its commitment to delivering a visceral and mechanically focused driving machine.