Automobiles Review – Page 826 – Car News, Car Reviews, Auto Shows, Car Photos, Car Videos

2013 Volvo V40 R-Design Debuts in Paris [VIDEO]

2013 Volvo V40 R-Design in stunning Rebel Blue is going to make its debut in Paris. Offering stylish and dynamic look, driver-centric interior it also delivers intense and agile driving experience with performance up to 254 horsepower (187 kW).

The unique R-Design front includes a silk-metal framed high-gloss grille with re-profiled front bumper and day running lights. In addition to this the sporty stance of the Volvo is emphasized even more with an ironstone rear diffuser, silk-metal finished details and twin exhaust tailpipes.

The exterior enhancements continue with the five-spoke diamond-cut wheels in 17″. Six additional body colors are also available.

In terms of interior, it has also been improved by gaining one-of-a-kind features such as the embossed R-Design leather/T-Tec upholstery, TFT instrument display, sports steering wheel, sports pedals and unique aluminium inlays.

For the customers who want even more from their car, the designers have prepared the R-Design Lux which adds additional features. Some of them include embossed full leather-faced upholstery, active bending xenon headlights with headlight cleaning system, rain sensor, cruise control, keyless start and rear theatre lighting.

To go even further into details, the new V40 comes equipped with unique interactive dashboard. There is also offered the possibility to choose between three designs with different configurations and functionality, namely Elegance, Eco and Performance.

The seats are wrapped in a blend of black Nubuck textile and perforated leather, crowned by an embroidered R-Design logo with a blue “R”. Full leather seats are available as an option.

Of course, the steering wheel is specifically designed for this version. Also new look gain the gear-knob, handbrake and sport pedals. The combination of new aluminium inlays with a perforated look, black leather, matching stitching and black headlining even further improves the “cabin experience”.

More importantly, the R-Design will be available with all engines offered with the standard Volvo V40. These include the D2 diesel with 115 horsepower (85 kW) and CO2 emissions at 94 g/km, up to the high-performance T5 petrol turbo with 254 horsepower (187 kW).

As an option, there is a newly developed Sport chassis, lowered 10 mm compared with the Dynamic chassis. Springs and shock absorbers have a firmer setting, taking effect in a responsive driving pleasure with full control.

At the rear the V40 is equipped with mono-tube dampers, including turing compression and return damping. This results in shorter and faster fluid flow, hence this leads to the conclusion that the damper responds more quickly.

2013 Volvo V40 R-Design will go on sale in the beginning of the next year.

httpv://youtu.be/LQodTdanYqo

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Vovlo

September 13, 2012

Volkswagen Beetle R-Line or the Sporty Chic

2013 Volkswagen Beetle R-Line is also named by the brand the Sporty Chic. In fact, Volkswagen is now offering two R-Line packages – exterior and interior one – for the Beetle that are based on the top “Sport” version.

The independent and sporty R-Line options can be combined with any of the twelve Beetle colors. In particular the parts of the exterior package include: front bumpers with independent black grained air inlets and chrome surrounds for the directional indicators, diffuser at the rear, special body side panels and door mirror housings in body color, R-Line logos on the front body beneath the A-pillars, 18-inch “Twister” alloy wheels, Machine-polished 19-inch “Tornado” alloy wheels in black or white with 235/40 tyres (optionally).

The exterior package can be ordered separately. However, the interior package is always offered as an extension of the R-Line exterior details and it includes the following equipment: sport seat system with seats upholstered with an active-breathing fabric in “Kyalami” design, front head restraints with R-Line badge, leather-trimmed sport steering wheel, the gear shift lever boot and the handbrake grip with decorative seams in “Art Grey” and decorative inlays in “Dark Vanadium”.

Furthermore, there are also offered some optional features. For example the seats can be ordered in black leather (“Vienna”) with R-Line badges on the head restraints as well as on the door sill plates and the leather-trimmed sport steering wheel.

The Beetle Sport is available with a 1.4 TSI (118 kW/160 PS), 2.0 TSI (147 kW/200 PS) or 2.0 TDI (103 kW/140 PS). The R-Line exterior package starting price is € 1 290, and when the interior package is included the price starts at € 1 675.

Source: Volkswagen

September 13, 2012

2013 Heico Sportiv Volvo V40 Offers More Driving Excitement

2013 Heico Sportiv Volvo V40 is the latest tuning enhancement done by the famous Volvo tuner Heico Sportiv. In fact this individualization program will coincide with the launch of the new Volvo V40.

In particular it will include power improvements, exhaust systems, suspensions, wheels and expressive interior and exterior design elements. In the roots of the modification is the e.motion® power enhancement range for the D2, D3 and D4 diesel engines.

The e.motion® stands for “efficiency in motion”, which centers on a second, equivalent engine control unit that operates in parallel with the original control unit, acting as an independent additional “brain”.

This means that the V40’s 5-cylinder diesel engine will be boosted to 143 kW / 195 hp (compared to the 130 kW / 177 hp of the series model) and 480 Nm of torque (series value: 400 Nm). This results in 1 second less to end the sprint to 100 km/h and 10 km/h addition to the top speed.

In addition, Heico Sportiv design team will augment the bi-part front spoiler and rear skirt in diffuser optic. The front spoiler emphasizes the protuberance of the series-manufactured spoiler lip, additionally setting a falcate design feature between the main headlamps and LED daytime driving lights.

Here the main design element is created from light and flexible polyurethane plastic (PUR-R-RIM) and is mounted on the original bumper. Furthermore, another prominent feature at the back of the vehicle is the rear skirt, citing the form of a diffuser, again made of PUR-R-RIM.

Next, the rear skirt here is fixed to the original mountings in the same way as the original part. The dimensions of the sport exhaust system’s four stainless steel oval end pipes are exactly 120 mm x 74 mm and. They are black from the inside and high gloss chrome plated from the outside.

The customers of this tuned Volvo will enjoy a great sound design as well. The exhaust systems are characterized by resonant, voluminous sound, the timbre varying with engine speed and model.

The new 2013 Heico Sportiv Volvo V40 will run on 8×18” and 8×19” VOLUTION® sport wheels, which will be offered in three design lines VOLUTION® V., VII. and X. Their color choice is Bright Silver, Graphite Matt and Black. The vehicle can also be equipped optionally with sport springs for lowering it by 30mm.

Source: Heico Sportiv

September 13, 2012

2012 BMW 1M by BEST Cars and Bikes

2012 BMW 1M by BEST Cars and Bikes is a tuning which is definitely going to inspire anyone. The car transformers from BEST Cars and Bikes have done incredible work on this popular BMW model.

First they have added a KW coil over in Variant 3 in combination with an exhaust system made by Bastuck. In fact it was made from stain steel, which further improves the dynamics and performance.

Furthermore, there has been done enhancement regarding the power of the car. With the help of professional software optimization the tuners have managed to give this 1M 425 hp (313 kW).

And in order to make it even more perfect, they have given it more impressive stance using one-of-a-kind wheel and tire combination. The mounted three-piece rims of the FS-Line with matt black coated stainless steel outer rims obviously fit excellent to the BMW.

The dimensions in particular here are 9Jx20H2 in combination with 245/30R20 tires on the front axle and 11Jx20H2 and 305/25R20 at the rear axle. Almost looks like these wheels were made especially and only for the tuning!

Source: Miranda Media

September 13, 2012

Brabus 2013 Mercedes SL-Class – Beast on wheels

Brabus has announced their latest project based on the new 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class. The tuning program offers both styling and performance upgrades.

Sporty-elegant body styling components, tuned in the wind tunnel for maximum aerodynamic efficiency, are the BRABUS designers’ specialty. The exterior boasts a complete body kit including a new front and rear bumpers, a pair of revised side skirts, front fender vents and a trunk-mounted spoiler. The ride rolls Monoblock wheels in dimensions from 18” to 20”. There is also a sports exhaust system available to order.

The largest combination to fit the R 231 model series SL features BRABUS Monoblock F, Q or R wheels in size 9J x 20” in front with size 255/30 ZR 20 tires and size 9.5J x 20” wheels with 295/25 ZR 20 tires on the rear axle.

BRABUS recommends high-performance tires from Continental, Pirelli and YOKOHAMA.

The two-seated cockpit can receive even more individual character and luxury attributes at BRABUS. The product lineup ranges from scuff plates with backlit BRABUS logo and a speedometer with 320-km/h or 360-km/h dial (200 mph or 225 mph) to carbon-fiber or fine wood trim sets in any imaginable color and with a variety of surface finishes.

The company upholstery shop creates exquisite BRABUS interiors from especially soft yet durable BRABUS Mastik leather and Alcantara.

The SL500 can be equipped with a 520 PowerXtra CGI power kit. The result for the twin-turbo 4.7-liter V8 engine is 520HP (382 kW) and 820 Nm (604 lb-ft) of torque. 0-100 km/h in 4.4 seconds and a top speed of 250, 275 or 300 km/h (155, 172, 186 mph).

The car can also be equipped with a limited-slip differential and a revised suspension with sport springs (on the SL 350) or a reprogrammed ABC (Active Body Control) module that reduces the ride height by 25mm.

Source: Brabus

September 12, 2012

2013 Nissan Patrol for Australia

The all-new Nissan Patrol is a technological tour de force, even more capable, even more advanced, and even better equipped to challenge the largest and most luxurious SUVs.

It introduces a new platform, a radical design direction, significantly enhanced interior comfort and luxury, a powerful new V8 engine with exceptional driveability, a new 7-speed automatic transmission, as well as a new ALL-MODE 4×4 system.

The all-new 2013 Nissan Patrol boasts the power of an efficient and muscular 5.6-litre V8 petrol engine, driving through an advanced 7-speed automatic transmission and a sophisticated, electronically controlled, ALL MODE 4X4 system.

Suspension is now independent all round, a departure from the rigid axles of the previous generations; yet off-road traction has been enhanced.

The all-new Nissan Patrol body is larger than before by some measure, offering sumptuously luxurious accommodation for up to eight passengers.

Even with the third row of seats occupied there remains ample space to stow a full-size cooler box in the load bay, which is accessed by via a single piece lift-up tailgate. With the second and third rows of seats folded to form an almost flat floor, more than 3100-litres of cargo space are released.

The impressive V8 power train package is available with three trim levels: ST-L, Ti and Ti-L. A raft of class-leading performance features and advanced, intelligent technologies act to transform the Nissan Patrol from utilitarian to thoroughbred.

This is the most luxurious and advanced Nissan ever offered in Australia.

Major improvements have been made in fuel efficiency, comfort, luxury, overall quality and technology, for an improved drive on- and off-road.

The new Nissan Patrol has been designed to cope with all types of terrain, and to be able to tow up to 3500 kg with ease.

The new generation V8 engine delivers 298 kW of power and 560 Nm of torque, with 90 percent, or more than 500 Nm of torque, available from just 2500 rpm.

Yet despite significantly increasing power and torque over the Y61 generation petrol model, the new V8 engine is substantially more efficient, using only 14.5-litres per 100 km (Y61 4.8-litre six-cylinder 17.2-l/100km).

The new automatic transmission offers a wider range of gear ratios giving smoother acceleration from rest, improved ride comfort, and better economy.

The new ALL MODE 4X4 drive system is controlled via a circular electronic switch cluster located behind the gear selector, allowing the driver easy mode selection for: sand, rock, snow or on-road driving, activation of the rear differential lock, VDC on/off and Hill Descent Control. The ALL MODE 4X4 controller also allows the driver to select between 4H and 4L.

The new Nissan Patrol also features Hill Start Assist and a helical limited slip differential.

A notable addition to the chassis is the arrival of Nissan’s Hydraulic Body Motion Control on suspension systems of Ti and Ti-L models. This reduces body roll in high-speed corners on sealed surfaces and maximises suspension travel in extreme off-road driving conditions.

The HBMC system’s cylinders replace traditional shock absorbers and anti-roll bars. The technology was developed for world rallying and this is the first application of the technology for the road.

The new Nissan Patrol also offers Intelligent Cruise Control, Forward Collision Warning, Blind Spot Warning and Lane Departure Warning and Prevention.

Immediately noticeable is the class-leading style and class-leading space on offer.

The new Nissan Patrol is appreciably larger in every dimension than its predecessor, and its nearest rival.

Interior accommodation has also been improved to a noticeable degree, especially for second and third row occupants who gain more leg and shoulder room.

The new Nissan Patrol features a wide array of luxury accessories and features as standard on all models, including Bluetooth hands-free phone, large format front DVD player, 2GB music server with 6 speakers, iPod connectivity, steering wheel audio controls, intelligent key access, 8-way power assisted driver’s seat, a full complement of active and passive safety systems, drive computer, dual zone climate control, front, side and curtain airbags, active front headrests, and front and rear parking sensors with rear view camera.

The Ti model adds the new Hydraulic Body Motion Control system along with leather upholstery and 4-way electric adjustment for the front passenger seat, auto headlights, sunroof and rain sensing wipers.

The top-of-the-range Ti-L adds memory function for the driver’s seat, steering wheel and door mirrors, a voluminous centre console coolbox, hard drive navigation system, premium BOSE audio with 13 speakers, dual 7-inch DVD screens in the rear of the front seat headrests, Around View Monitor, intelligent cruise control, xenon projector headlamps with auto levelling and washers, puddle lamps and a power operated tailgate. A tyre pressure monitoring system is also added along with Blind Spot Warning and a vehicle alarm.

The new Nissan Patrol is expected on sale in January 2013, priced below $85,000 for the ST-L, under $95,000 for the Ti and less than $115,000 for the Ti-L

Source: Nissan

September 12, 2012

2013 Porsche Cayenne S Diesel – €77,684

Porsche has announced that they will offer Cayenne S Diesel coming with a mighty 4.2 liter twin-turbocharged V8. This is a bold move from the German manufacturer, because most of the people, who like fast vehicles choose the petrol variants and this is not everything. The true Porsche fans also like the petrol engines, instead of diesel variants. Still, this can be an interesting combination.

The twin-turbo V8 4.2-liter engine has 382HP (284 kW) and 850 Nm (627 lb-ft) of torque. 0-100 km/h in 5.7 seconds and a top speed of 252 km/h (157 mph). Porsche claims that the big SAV will actually achieve a fuel consumption of 8.3 liters per 100 km, which is extremely hard for a big AWD SAV. That means that the 100-liter fuel tank it should be able to provide a range of more than 1200 km (750 miles).

The very special character of the Cayenne S Diesel is further underlined by the Porsche Traction Management (PTM) active all-wheel drive. This system delivers the dynamic qualities of a rear-wheel drive car, together with its inherent benefits in terms of handling and precision. Torque is directed to the front wheels precisely according to the driving situation to improve stability and traction. The optional Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus (PTV Plus) further hones this dynamic performance.

Other standard features include a dual-zone automatic climate control, leather interior, cruise control, front and rear parking sensors, 7” touchscreen display and 18” alloy wheels fitted with low-profile performance tires.

The price for the big toy is €77,684 in Germany – including 19% VAT.

Source: Porsche

September 12, 2012

USAF X1 Ford Mustang GT by Galpin Auto Sports

What would you think will happen when a talented tuning company joins forces with United States Air Force? I didn’t believe such union was possible, until I’ve seen the breathtaking USAF X-1 Ford Mustang GT by Galpin Auto Sports.

Yes, GAS and USAF have gathered together in order to produce something never seen before – a muscle car which has a jet-plane interior. This is in fact a modification which is worthy of acting in a movie like, isn’t it?

The ultra hi-tech USAF X1 Ford Mustang GT is destined to be even more than a super car. Just take a look at the images below and you’ll be reassured for yourself. The jet cockpit here includes single-driver ejection seat, short shifter and flight stick.

The dash on the other hand features a touch screen monitor displaying night and thermal vision. In addition, there is a concealed motorized steering wheel, custom food pedals, GPS transponder and GAS fabricated seats.

One is sure, when you enter the cockpit, you’ll definitely get the impression of a jet-like feeling. This means that the fellows from GAS have performed their work flawlessly. In short, the X-1 Mustang is a combination of form, function, and futuristic entertainment.

The super car producing the outstanding 500 hp (368 kW), thanks to its surcharged kit, 3-valve Ford Racing heads and cold air intake.

Also included in the modification and worth mentioning are the vertical doors, Wildwood super brake lights, carbon fiber rear deck, HRE Performance Wheels, Eibach Springs coil-over suspension, Watts Link rear suspension and the APR wide body kit with carbon fiber accents.

Source: Galpin Auto Sports via Facebook

September 12, 2012

Peugeot 2008 Concept Revealed

It is a big day for all fans of Peugeot, because the brand is coming out with another exciting concept – this time the Peugeot 2008 Concept. The car will in fact go in production in 2013 and it is designed to appeal to the young-minded generation who seek practicality.

The new concept is going to be unveiled in Paris later this month. Although not a big vehicle it combines agility, compactness, versatility and a striking style perfectly suitable for the city as well as for the countryside. In particular, the 2008 Concept has compact dimensions: 4.14 m long and 1.74 m wide.

Being a true Peugeot, it has all the unique design features which are emblematic for the brand. It has athletic and sleek lines and imposes bold posture. It grabs the attention immediately because it is painted fluorescent yellow with Velvet matt varnish. The car’s presence is further emphasized by its Dark Chrome details.

Furthermore, the front face of the concept is refined. The bonnet and wings give a reassuring impression of protection and strength. This perception is identical at the rear where the shape combines solidity with dynamism.

Of course a lot of attention is paid to the details. The “floating grille” has a design cut into the metal, combined with a sophisticated dual-aspect treatment following the instance of the new Peugeot emblem.

The new concept runs on large Michelin wheel. The design of their wheel arches and the ground clearance represents an active life without restraint and give a perfect sense of agility, versatility and lightweight.

More importantly, a 3-cylinder turbo petrol engine is going to give power to this Peugeot. The new generation engine perfectly fits the dynamism and power exuded by this concept car.

In particular, the 1.2-litre 3-cylinder engine has a turbo and direct injection. It generates power of 110 hp (81 kW) and offers low fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.

Source: Peugeot

September 12, 2012

Peugeot Onyx Concept Unveiled Ahead of Paris [VIDEO]

The new Peugeot Onyx Concept has just leaked ahead its official debut in Paris. With its V8 engine in a central rear position, the new Peugeot concept targets the high performance vehicle fans around the globe.

The Onyx has been made from innovative materials and shows outstanding sculpture. The sharp bodywork is emphasized additionally by striking contrast of materials and colors.

For instance the wings and doors are pure copper sheet, while the panels of the bodywork are pure carbon fibre painted in matt black. The front fascia of the car combines the vertical grille and full LED lamps.

The double-bubble roof is also something impressive. At the rear, the exterior of the car is finished by the unique rear lamps, which adopt a light signature with three claws.

Furthermore, the windows and roof are made of PMMA, which stands for Poly Methyl MethAcrylate. Enclosing the cocoon, this guarantees the occupants great sense of protection due to the ultra-resistant structure.

Another highlight among the others is the chassis, which is an innovative component. Made from monolithic carbon, this central structure consists of only 12 parts. It incorporates the front and rear chassis legs, which makes it possible to eliminate the connected plates. This results in weight optimization with 100kg.

More importantly the extraordinary Peugeot concept is propelled by its 3.7-litre V8 hybrid HDi FAP engine. In particular the V8 generates 600 hp (442 kW) and it’s mated to a six-speed sequential gearbox.

The HYbrid4 technology recovers the kinetic energy which is usually lost during braking. This energy is kept in lithium-ion batteries and then delivered automatically on acceleration, boosting the power by an additional 80 hp (59 kW).

The dimensions of the car are exactly 4.65 m in length, 2.20 m in width and 1.13 m of height. Surprisingly it weighs only 1100kg. Moreover, the great aerodynamics is complemented by the tyres especially developed by Michelin – 275/30 at the front and 345/30 at the rear, 20 inches in size.

In terms of interior this car is astonishing. The passenger compartment is bathed with natural light, from floor to roof. Made of felt, compressed and stretched, the passenger compartment is formed as a one-piece pod, with no stitching or joins.

The feeling is as is it creates a real cocoon around the occupants and fitted into the carbon structure, fulfils the functions carried out in the past by several components: soundproofing, floor, upper console, roof, bucket seats.

The material used for the compartment is obtained from boiled wool, with intertwined fibres. It is in fact fully recyclable and provides excellent thermal insulation. In addition, it improves the quality of the surrounding air by dehumidifying it.

The dashboard here is made of a new type of “wood” – Newspaper Wood. It is created with the help of used newspapers, assembled and compressed to create new “logs” from which the parts are made.

The dashboard also is the place where the driver can find the instrument panel in a head up position. On the instrument panel in turn he or she can see all the information needed such as engine and vehicle speed.

In addition, there is also a panel of aluminium toggle switches mounted in the roof, where the engine starting switch is positioned. Immediately behind this, a strip displays the images from the two rear view cameras (in the mirrors) and the third, panoramic one – in the rear capping.

The console is also made from Newspaper Wood. Here one can see one-of-a-kind fuel indicator, shaped from blown-glass. Here is where the level of fuel is displayed. At last, the console houses the dual-zone air conditioning controls, with an aluminium bar with a milled detail finish.

httpv://youtu.be/ug4auobYEn4

Source: Peugeot

September 12, 2012

Nissan TeRRA SUV Concept debuts in Paris

Nissan TeRRA SUV Concept is going to be unveiled the Paris Motor Show in the end of this month. The new concept vehicle is going to show the visitors that it is a perfect combination of an SUV and EV.

In addition it has an innovative 4×4 fuel-cell electric powertrain and an athletic exterior. This Nissan is designed as a functional and flexible choice in order to bring eco-friendliness along with a secure driving feel under any road conditions.

The new SUV comes in pack with big tyres, high belt-line, thick pillars and thin side windows. However, it also retains the slender waist and a sculptured bonnet of brands popular design philosophy.

For example, the sharp corners, short overhangs and sculptured lamps lead to a clean and confident presence. An aerodynamically flat body pan in addition is what grabs the attention immediately.

Nevertheless, the tough exterior isn’t continued as a theme in the interior. The door panel is a sculpted fusion of blond wood trim and colored acrylic, layered in an intriguing pattern.

At shoulder height one can see a metal frame. The wood-metal contrast continues across the dashboard, a beechwood-acrylic fusion that exudes soft warmth.

One of the most eye-catching features in this concept is the unique instrument cluster, which consists of electronic tablet. The latter is utilized as an “intelligent key”, which the driver docks when entering the car and removes it when leaving.

TeRRA’s driver seat is positioned almost in the centre in a unique diagonal layout. This positions the rear passengers over the shoulders of those in front, rather than directly behind.

A hexagonal motif can be seen carried through various aspects of the inteiror design. Another impressive innovation here is that when the passenger seats are folded down, the boot floor is completely flat, presenting no obstacles to carrying bikes, kayaks.

The TeRRA also is envisioned with another unique feature – a 4×4 fuel cell electric powertrain. The front wheels are powered by an electric propulsion system currently featured in the Nissan LEAF.

In each back wheel on the other hand, is an in-wheel electric motor, based on the working prototypes featured in three successive PIVO concepts. Given that no drive shafts are required to power the rear wheels, there is no hump in the floor or on the underbody.

More importantly, the concept SUV is powered by Nissan’s hydrogen fuel cell stack: a flat, highly compact unit that includes world-leading power density of 2.5kW/L. And although a purely concept car, we are definitely excited to see it as a mass-production vehicle!

Source: Nissan

September 12, 2012

2013 Audi RS5: Naturally Aspirational

Motor Trend has released a full video review of one of the best sports coupes on the market – the new 2013 Audi RS5.

It features LED-infused headlights, nice matt aluminum trim and enormous 19” forged aluminum wheels fitted with low-profile tires. There is also a new rear diffuser, a dual sports exhaust system with nice deep sound and the final touch is a carbon fiber rear spoiler.

The interior features a sports steering wheel, leather and Alcantara heated sport seats, some metallic accents and of course – carbon fiber trim.

The Audi RS 5 is delivered with an extensive set of standard extras. They include the parking system plus, driver and front passenger seat heating, automatic belt feeder, wind deflector, lighting package, driver information system with rest recommendation and a comprehensive package of restraint systems. In case of an impending roll-over accident, strong aluminum plates deploy upwards behind the rear head restraints. Sporty and luxurious options include three-stage head-level heating, convenience key, high-beam assistant, adaptive light and three-zone deluxe automatic air conditioning.

The engine is a 4.2 liter naturally aspirated V8 with 450HP (331 kW) and 430Nm (317 lb-ft) of torque. It is mated to a 7-speed S-tronic gearbox sending all that power to Quattro AWD system. 0-100 km/h in 4.9 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) – electronically limited. However, upon request, Audi can increase it to 280 km/h (174 mph).

September 11, 2012

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