By SEMA News Editors
Nilu27 Completes First Test of V12 Engine
Nilu27, the Los Angeles, California-based hypercar manufacturer, recently celebrated the successful first test of the bespoke, 1,070hp 6.5L V12 engine for its upcoming NILU Hypercar built by New Zealand's Hartley Engines.
Nilu27 founders Sasha and Inna Selipanov recently traveled to New Zealand to observe the first test of the new V12 engine built for the debut of the NILU hypercar.
The test took place on Wednesday, June 17, marking the first run for the power unit. Developed in close collaboration with specialized high-performance engine developers Hartley Engines, the power unit features a unique "Hot V" configuration––with the exhaust headers placed between the cylinder heads to optimize both performance and packaging. And while the engine was originally projected to produce 1,070 hp, initial dyno testing has already exceeded those projections while reaching a 11,000-rpm redline, according to the company.
"This is the moment theory became reality," said Sasha Selipanov. "By firing up this stunning V12, we didn't only prove our engineering capabilities; we delivered the soul of the NILU. As most of the automotive world embraces digital and electric sterility, we've doubled down on the raw, visceral drama of high RPM, naturally aspirated internal combustion. The Nilu27/Hartley V12 will make our hypercar truly timeless. And we hope the video from our first dyno test will generate the same excitement among viewers as it did when we were present," he concluded.
"To see this bespoke V12 come to life after months of intense development is an indescribable feeling," said Nelson Hartley, Hartley Engines. "This isn't just an engine; it's a piece of art that pushes the boundaries of what a naturally aspirated power unit can do. We knew we had something special on paper, but seeing it outperform expectations on the dyno right out of the gate is phenomenal."
For more information, visit nilu27.com.
RealTruck Announces 'RealTruck x Makita' Sweepstakes
Makita and RealTruck have teamed up for the "Ultimate Work Truck Upgrade" sweepstakes. One lucky grand prize winner will receive a full setup featuring the Makita MAKTRAK™ modular storage system, a RealTruck MX4 EZ-Lift bed cover, AMP Research bed steps, swing cases and more, according to RealTruck.
For the complete details, visit makitatools.com/events/sweepstakes/realtruck or visit the RealTruck Instagram post.
Gold Eagle Company Names Former MEMA CEO Bill Long to Advisory Board
Gold Eagle Company, a manufacturer of automotive appearance, performance and maintenance products, has appointed Bill Long, former president and CEO of MEMA, The Vehicle Suppliers Association, to its Advisory Board. Long brings more than four decades of executive leadership, strategic insight and industry advocacy experience to Gold Eagle.
Long has held senior leadership positions across the automotive and commercial vehicle sectors while serving as a recognized voice for the industry throughout North America. During his tenure at MEMA, he helped advance the interests of vehicle suppliers and promote innovation, collaboration and growth across the industry.
Long has served numerous industry organizations and boards, including the Automotive Hall of Fame Board of Directors, the Automotive Aftermarket Charitable Foundation, the National Automotive Service Task Force (NASTF), and the Northwood University Automotive Aftermarket Advisory Board. His contributions have been recognized with several of the industry's most prestigious honors, including Northwood University's Outstanding Business Leader Award, the MEMA Triangle Award, the Automotive Aftermarket Management Education Award, and the Jack Arute Sr. Excellence in Motorsports Award.
"Bill is one of the most influential and highly regarded leaders our industry has produced," said Marc Blackman, chairman and CEO of Gold Eagle. "His deep understanding of the automotive aftermarket, extensive industry relationships and proven leadership experience will provide tremendous value as we continue to strengthen our brands, expand our portfolio, accelerate profitable growth and position Gold Eagle for long-term success. Bill has spent his career helping organizations navigate change, identify opportunities and create lasting value. We are honored to welcome him to the Gold Eagle Advisory Board."
The Gold Eagle Company Advisory Board provides independent counsel and strategic guidance to the company's leadership team on matters involving growth, profitability, leadership development, market trends, organizational effectiveness and long-term value creation. Long joins a group of advisors with expertise spanning automotive aftermarket, consumer products, manufacturing, retail and corporate leadership.
"For years I have admired Gold Eagle's commitment to innovation, quality, and customer focus," said Long. "The company has built an exceptional portfolio of brands and a strong reputation throughout the automotive aftermarket. I am honored to join the advisory board and look forward to supporting Marc and the leadership team as they continue to build on that legacy and pursue new opportunities for growth."
For more information about Gold Eagle Company, visit goldeagle.com.




