January 2021 - “Engine” is the operative prefix in the word “engineer,” so it follows that when retired engineer Paul Kalenian designed and built an automotive chassis, the focus would be on the engine. In this case, the engine is a GM LTG crate motor/transaxle selected for its power density.

At 295 HP, the DOHC, direct injection, 6-speed 2L turbo 4 weighs in at just 265 lbs. Lulu’s chassis, like an airplane, is an all-aluminum monocoque/bulkhead design that was waterjet cut from 6061 aluminum and heliarc welded into a torsionally stiff independent coil over suspension.

The solidly mounted motor/transaxle is a structural component of this mid-rear-wheel drive layout.Raising the boost via ECU reprogramming to 25 psi provides 325 hp, propelling the 1,530 lb. (wet) chassis from 0 to 60 mph in about 3 seconds. Lulu cruises with very responsive handling, due to 34 in. overall height, low center of gravity and 76 in. width with a 102 in. wheel base.

“Lulu” is fully street legal and in her first year has been driven over 4,000 mostly reliable miles. “Lu2” is currently in design-build with a BMW K1600B MC engine and a projected weight of 850 lbs.