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Monday, February 28, 2011
Mansory Cormeum
German tuner Mansory has comprehensively reworked the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG. The result is the Cormeum, named after an opera aria.
Changes to the bodywork go well beyond just sticking a body kit on. The front end, which has been totally redesigned to reduce lift, now sports aggressive air intakes and new headlights. Lighter roof and door panels are fitted, while replacement wings widen the car by 66 mm at the front and 84 mm at the rear. Around the back, a race-spec diffuser is there purely for more down force, as is the boot lid spoiler.
Combined with the forged alloy wheels - 20” diameter at the front and 21” for the rears - the alterations knock 90 kg off the weight of the donor SLS AMG.
To go with the reduced bulk is more power. The V8 engine in the Cormeum boasts 650 bhp (485 kW / 660 PS), compared to the standard car’s 563 bhp (420 kW / 571 PS). However, if that’s still not enough, Mansory is saying that outputs of up to 790 bhp (588 kW / 800 PS) are in development.
Any carbon fibre enthusiasts thinking of buying a Mansory Cormeum had better be quick, as production will be limited to just fifteen examples.
Related posts:
SLS AMG E-CELL is go
Brabus Widestar SLS AMG
Changes to the bodywork go well beyond just sticking a body kit on. The front end, which has been totally redesigned to reduce lift, now sports aggressive air intakes and new headlights. Lighter roof and door panels are fitted, while replacement wings widen the car by 66 mm at the front and 84 mm at the rear. Around the back, a race-spec diffuser is there purely for more down force, as is the boot lid spoiler.
Combined with the forged alloy wheels - 20” diameter at the front and 21” for the rears - the alterations knock 90 kg off the weight of the donor SLS AMG.
To go with the reduced bulk is more power. The V8 engine in the Cormeum boasts 650 bhp (485 kW / 660 PS), compared to the standard car’s 563 bhp (420 kW / 571 PS). However, if that’s still not enough, Mansory is saying that outputs of up to 790 bhp (588 kW / 800 PS) are in development.
Any carbon fibre enthusiasts thinking of buying a Mansory Cormeum had better be quick, as production will be limited to just fifteen examples.
Related posts:
SLS AMG E-CELL is go
Brabus Widestar SLS AMG
Novitec Rosso 599 GTO
Arguably, the last thing that the Ferrari 599 GTO needs is more power.
That hasn’t stopped tuner Novitec Rosso though, which has lifted the GTO’s outputs from 660 bhp (493 kW / 670 PS) and 620 Nm (457 lb/ft) of torque to 875 bhp (653 kW / 888 PS) and 862 Nm (635 lb/ft).
Those are enormous increases, achieved by reworking the twin superchargers, fitting high-flow air filters and fuel injectors, replacing the exhaust system and fiddling with the engine’s ECU.
The end result is, well, rather underwhelming. Whereas the standard GTO will accelerate from zero to 62 mph (100 km/h) in just 3.35 seconds and to 124 mph (200 km/h) in 9.8 seconds, the Novitec version does each sprint in 3.2 and 9.1 seconds respectively. Improvements that hardly embarrass the stock car, then.
Top speed also gets a similarly slight increase, rising from ‘over’ 208 mph (335 km/h) to ‘more than’ 211 mph (340 km/h).
Completing the conversion are lower sports springs, a front axle lift function to help negotiate speed humps, lightweight five-spoke alloys and wider Pirelli PZero tyres.
Perhaps the nicest thing about the Novitec Rosso 599 GTO is the colour scheme. Inspired by the Écurie Nationale Belge 250 GTO that won the 1964 Tour de France in the hands of Lucien Bianchi and Georges Berger, it features silver paintwork with a distinctive Belgian racing yellow stripe across the bonnet.
That hasn’t stopped tuner Novitec Rosso though, which has lifted the GTO’s outputs from 660 bhp (493 kW / 670 PS) and 620 Nm (457 lb/ft) of torque to 875 bhp (653 kW / 888 PS) and 862 Nm (635 lb/ft).
Those are enormous increases, achieved by reworking the twin superchargers, fitting high-flow air filters and fuel injectors, replacing the exhaust system and fiddling with the engine’s ECU.
The end result is, well, rather underwhelming. Whereas the standard GTO will accelerate from zero to 62 mph (100 km/h) in just 3.35 seconds and to 124 mph (200 km/h) in 9.8 seconds, the Novitec version does each sprint in 3.2 and 9.1 seconds respectively. Improvements that hardly embarrass the stock car, then.
Top speed also gets a similarly slight increase, rising from ‘over’ 208 mph (335 km/h) to ‘more than’ 211 mph (340 km/h).
Completing the conversion are lower sports springs, a front axle lift function to help negotiate speed humps, lightweight five-spoke alloys and wider Pirelli PZero tyres.
Perhaps the nicest thing about the Novitec Rosso 599 GTO is the colour scheme. Inspired by the Écurie Nationale Belge 250 GTO that won the 1964 Tour de France in the hands of Lucien Bianchi and Georges Berger, it features silver paintwork with a distinctive Belgian racing yellow stripe across the bonnet.
Sunday, February 27, 2011
all New 2011 Ducati 848 Evo: Perfomance test
soul-stirring sound and seductive, liquid-red styling inherent to a long bloodline of championship-winning Ducati sportbikes. Yesterday's triumph, however, is just that, and the bigger the trophy, the more dust it tends to attract. Ongoing product evolution is what maintains a competitive edge, and the Bologna boys aim to kill in the hotly contested middleweight supersport category with the new 848 EVO recently rolled out as an early-release 2011 model.
2011 Ducati 848 Evo Action
2011 Ducati 848 Evo ActionTorque builds quickly off idle before easing into a soft spot around 5000 rpm. While the mid-rpm lull is perceptible even at slight throttle settings, fueling remains good, allowing the bike to cruise dead-steady in the lull zone at freeway speeds. The sweet spot for smooth running spans from 4000 to 5000 rpm, yielding an indicated 70 to 87 mph in top gear with only modest engine vibration seeping through the handgrips. Strong power pulses quake the footpegs and frame while chugging along at basement revs or spinning the engine in its upper rpm range. There is little driveline lash, even when casually lugging along at 3500 rpm in a tall gear.
2011 Ducati 848 Evo
2011 Ducati 848 Evo 
2010-2011 new Ducati Hypermotard 1100 EVO SP stance.
2010 Ducati Hypermotard 1100 EVO SP Front Angle View
2010 Ducati Hypermotard 1100 EVO SP Motorcycle
Vehicle Highlights: first plug-in for 2011 The Chevrolet Volt
One aspect which sets the Volt apart from any other car on the market is its long driving range for an electric vehicle, something usually not found in other electric vehicles such as the Nissan Leaf. Since the Volt operates uses an electric motor for the first 40 miles or so, consumers who have a short commute could probably skip fueling up for long periods of time. The car industry awarded the Volt the honor of being named 2011 North American Car of the Year.
Let's take a closer look at the powertrain that powers this innovative vehicle. The car is powered initially by an electric power train which switches over to traditional gasoline mode after around forty miles. The electric powertrain provides 149 hp and 273 lb feet of torque while the traditional engine is a 1.4 Liter four cylinder. Acceleration is smooth and instantaneous while the Volt provides a driver oriented and athletic drive. Charging the car is quite simple; you just plug it into a regular 120 volt outlet. The Volt goes from 0-60 mph on just 9.2 seconds which is pretty fast when compared to speeds of the average hybrid. A home charging station is highly recommended.
The 2011 Chevrolet Volt makes its debut as General Motors' first plug-in gas/electric vehicle. It is expected to see limited production in calendar 2010, with availability only in California, Connecticut, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, Texas, and Washington, DC. Nationwide sales are slated for late-calendar 2011. GM calls this 4-passenger, 4-door hatchback an "extended-range electric vehicle," because it has, in effect, two different drivetrains: an all-electric one (battery and motors) that drive the car for the first 40 or so miles after a full plug-in recharge, and a gas-powered hybrid system (with gas engine and fuel tank) that automatically takes over after that to give about another 300 miles of range.
Touch-control switch system on the center console
High-resolution, seven-inch, full-color LCD reconfigurable Driver Information Center display. The display shows electric-only range, fuel economy, , extended-range, trip information, tire pressure information and other key vehicle messages.
High-resolution, seven-inch, full-color, center stack-mounted touch screen display that serves as the interface for infotainment and cabin climate controls. An Efficiency (Leaf) switch accesses energy usage, power flow and charging screens - all easy to use and understand.
Charge modes are customizable according to need and electricity rates for efficient programming and lower costs.
A key fob that allows drivers to remotely start the vehicle and precondition the cabin based on outside temperatures
An exclusive mobile app, powered by OnStar MyLink, that enables owners to engage with the Volt functions using a smart phone.
Chevrolet Volt warranties bring value and peace of mind
Volt owners receive outstanding battery and vehicle limited warranty coverage. In addition to the eight-year/100,000-mile limited warranty on the Chevy Volt's 16-kWh lithium-ion battery, Chevrolet will provide:
Three-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper coverage
Five-year/100,000-mile roadside assistance and courtesy transportation
Five-year/100,000-mile limited gas engine coverage
Six-year/100,000-mile corrosion protection coverage.
Let's take a closer look at the powertrain that powers this innovative vehicle. The car is powered initially by an electric power train which switches over to traditional gasoline mode after around forty miles. The electric powertrain provides 149 hp and 273 lb feet of torque while the traditional engine is a 1.4 Liter four cylinder. Acceleration is smooth and instantaneous while the Volt provides a driver oriented and athletic drive. Charging the car is quite simple; you just plug it into a regular 120 volt outlet. The Volt goes from 0-60 mph on just 9.2 seconds which is pretty fast when compared to speeds of the average hybrid. A home charging station is highly recommended.
The 2011 Chevrolet Volt makes its debut as General Motors' first plug-in gas/electric vehicle. It is expected to see limited production in calendar 2010, with availability only in California, Connecticut, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, Texas, and Washington, DC. Nationwide sales are slated for late-calendar 2011. GM calls this 4-passenger, 4-door hatchback an "extended-range electric vehicle," because it has, in effect, two different drivetrains: an all-electric one (battery and motors) that drive the car for the first 40 or so miles after a full plug-in recharge, and a gas-powered hybrid system (with gas engine and fuel tank) that automatically takes over after that to give about another 300 miles of range.
Touch-control switch system on the center console
High-resolution, seven-inch, full-color LCD reconfigurable Driver Information Center display. The display shows electric-only range, fuel economy, , extended-range, trip information, tire pressure information and other key vehicle messages.
High-resolution, seven-inch, full-color, center stack-mounted touch screen display that serves as the interface for infotainment and cabin climate controls. An Efficiency (Leaf) switch accesses energy usage, power flow and charging screens - all easy to use and understand.
Charge modes are customizable according to need and electricity rates for efficient programming and lower costs.
A key fob that allows drivers to remotely start the vehicle and precondition the cabin based on outside temperatures
An exclusive mobile app, powered by OnStar MyLink, that enables owners to engage with the Volt functions using a smart phone.
Chevrolet Volt warranties bring value and peace of mind
Volt owners receive outstanding battery and vehicle limited warranty coverage. In addition to the eight-year/100,000-mile limited warranty on the Chevy Volt's 16-kWh lithium-ion battery, Chevrolet will provide:
Three-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper coverage
Five-year/100,000-mile roadside assistance and courtesy transportation
Five-year/100,000-mile limited gas engine coverage
Six-year/100,000-mile corrosion protection coverage.
2011-2012 The Chevrolet Camaro Convertible
The Chevrolet Camaro Convertible Neiman Marcus has a retail price of $75,000, and will be ready for delivery in the spring of 2011. Reservations for one of these limited-edition cars will be accepted beginning at noon, EDT, on October 19, 2010.
All Chevrolet Camaro Convertible Neiman Marcus will be equipped with a 6.2-liter, V-8 engine, When paired with six-speed manual transmission, the engine delivers 426 horsepower and 420 pound-feet of torque; with the six-speed automatic, the engine delivers 400 horsepower and 410 pound-feet of torque.
The Chevrolet Camaro Convertible Neiman Marcus also has exclusive, 21-inch, polished aluminum wheels, wrapped in Pirelli P-Zero ultra-high performance tires. Other features include Brembo disc brakes, LED halo-ring headlamps, Bluetooth connectivity, rear parking assist, and a 245-watt, Boston Acoustics sound system.
Before any official announcement, reports began running during April 1965 within the automotive press that Chevrolet was preparing a competitor to the Ford Mustang, code-named Panther. On June 21, 1966, around 200 automotive journalists received a telegram from General Motors stating, "...Please save noon of June 28 for important SEPAW meeting. Hope you can be on hand to help scratch a cat. Details will follow...(signed) John L. Cutter – Chevrolet Public Relations – SEPAW Secretary." The following day, the same journalists received another General Motors telegram stating, "Society for the Eradication of Panthers from the Automotive World will hold first and last meeting on June 28...(signed) John L. Cutter – Chevrolet Public Relations SEPAW Secretary." These telegrams puzzled the automotive journalists.
All Chevrolet Camaro Convertible Neiman Marcus will be equipped with a 6.2-liter, V-8 engine, When paired with six-speed manual transmission, the engine delivers 426 horsepower and 420 pound-feet of torque; with the six-speed automatic, the engine delivers 400 horsepower and 410 pound-feet of torque.
The Chevrolet Camaro Convertible Neiman Marcus also has exclusive, 21-inch, polished aluminum wheels, wrapped in Pirelli P-Zero ultra-high performance tires. Other features include Brembo disc brakes, LED halo-ring headlamps, Bluetooth connectivity, rear parking assist, and a 245-watt, Boston Acoustics sound system.
Before any official announcement, reports began running during April 1965 within the automotive press that Chevrolet was preparing a competitor to the Ford Mustang, code-named Panther. On June 21, 1966, around 200 automotive journalists received a telegram from General Motors stating, "...Please save noon of June 28 for important SEPAW meeting. Hope you can be on hand to help scratch a cat. Details will follow...(signed) John L. Cutter – Chevrolet Public Relations – SEPAW Secretary." The following day, the same journalists received another General Motors telegram stating, "Society for the Eradication of Panthers from the Automotive World will hold first and last meeting on June 28...(signed) John L. Cutter – Chevrolet Public Relations SEPAW Secretary." These telegrams puzzled the automotive journalists.
2011 the Yamaha FZ6R is not lacking curb appeal
When Yamaha released the FZ6R to the public earlier this year I was quick to review it. I hastily found a brand new one, barely a week out of its crate, and went to work. Over the course of half a day I flogged the bike through corners, around treacherous terrain (bumpy roads, gravel, etc.), up and down hills, through the mountains, and then back into good old city riding. It as a memorable half day, as the Yamaha FZ6R would become one of my all time favorite casual motorcycles.
What is a "Casual" Motorcycle?
Unlike the Yamaha R6, which is a super-sport motorcycle, the Yamaha FZ6R has certain conveniences that make it appealing for new and experienced riders alike. It has a more upright riding position, with less lean to the handle bars. This makes it more comfortable to sit on and ride, and after nearly half a day of abuse and hard riding my back still wasn't sore. On the R6 my back would have been killing me within an hour.
Not only that, but it doesn't pack a 160 horsepower engine. In fact, though Yamaha has been very hush-hush about just how much power it does make, you will find that the FZ6R is rather slow in comparison to any 600cc+ super-sport. Then again, that's like saying that the Chevrolet Corvette is slower than the Ferrari F430. At no point should you think that the Yamaha FZ6R is a slow machine, as it will still complete a quarter mile in around 12 seconds, and it will still outrun just about everything else on the street.
2011 Yamaha FZ6R Official Photos
Looks and Performance
One look at the Yamaha FZ6R is enough to make someone fall in love. Distinct styling, combined with aggressive fairing and wide tires (for the size of motorcycle) give the FZ6R a unique look. Without a doubt, the FZ6R is not lacking curb appeal. Of course, all the aggressive fairing in the world won't mean a thing if the motorcycle handles like a Vespa.
Starting up the motorcycle reveals the silky-smooth idle of the fuel injected four cylinder former R6 engine, and once you rev it (and you will want to) you will be rewarded with an angelic exhaust tone. True, this is not a pocket rocket. Also true is the fact that the FZ6R isn't really any faster than any of its primary competition (Kawasaki Ninja 650R, Suzuki SV650S). However, the amount of personal satisfaction that owners of this motorcycle are sure to enjoy will easily outweigh any of those minor shortcomings.
And believe me when I say that they are indeed minor. Once you have this bike moving you will be experiencing a riding situation that is far and beyond what most "entry level" motorcycles offer. There is no clunky carbureted engine, no lacklustre acceleration, and no disapproving looks from other motorcycle riders. There is speed when you need it, there is the ride that you want (stiff, but not too stiff), and the aesthetics that cause other people to constantly ask you what you're riding.
Ride this bike hard and it will reward you with sub-12 second acceleration times (your $8,000 motorcycle will keep up with $180,000 Ferrari's), enthusiastic turn-in, and the ability to stop your newfound lover on a dime.
So How Good Is It?
This may very well be one of the best entry level middleweight sport bikes ever conceived, and in my humble opinion this motorcycle is worthy of respect from any rider, regardless of their experience level. Get on one, ride it, and see for yourself- you'll be glad you did.
What is a "Casual" Motorcycle?
Unlike the Yamaha R6, which is a super-sport motorcycle, the Yamaha FZ6R has certain conveniences that make it appealing for new and experienced riders alike. It has a more upright riding position, with less lean to the handle bars. This makes it more comfortable to sit on and ride, and after nearly half a day of abuse and hard riding my back still wasn't sore. On the R6 my back would have been killing me within an hour.
Not only that, but it doesn't pack a 160 horsepower engine. In fact, though Yamaha has been very hush-hush about just how much power it does make, you will find that the FZ6R is rather slow in comparison to any 600cc+ super-sport. Then again, that's like saying that the Chevrolet Corvette is slower than the Ferrari F430. At no point should you think that the Yamaha FZ6R is a slow machine, as it will still complete a quarter mile in around 12 seconds, and it will still outrun just about everything else on the street.
2011 Yamaha FZ6R Official PhotosOne look at the Yamaha FZ6R is enough to make someone fall in love. Distinct styling, combined with aggressive fairing and wide tires (for the size of motorcycle) give the FZ6R a unique look. Without a doubt, the FZ6R is not lacking curb appeal. Of course, all the aggressive fairing in the world won't mean a thing if the motorcycle handles like a Vespa.
Starting up the motorcycle reveals the silky-smooth idle of the fuel injected four cylinder former R6 engine, and once you rev it (and you will want to) you will be rewarded with an angelic exhaust tone. True, this is not a pocket rocket. Also true is the fact that the FZ6R isn't really any faster than any of its primary competition (Kawasaki Ninja 650R, Suzuki SV650S). However, the amount of personal satisfaction that owners of this motorcycle are sure to enjoy will easily outweigh any of those minor shortcomings.
And believe me when I say that they are indeed minor. Once you have this bike moving you will be experiencing a riding situation that is far and beyond what most "entry level" motorcycles offer. There is no clunky carbureted engine, no lacklustre acceleration, and no disapproving looks from other motorcycle riders. There is speed when you need it, there is the ride that you want (stiff, but not too stiff), and the aesthetics that cause other people to constantly ask you what you're riding.
Ride this bike hard and it will reward you with sub-12 second acceleration times (your $8,000 motorcycle will keep up with $180,000 Ferrari's), enthusiastic turn-in, and the ability to stop your newfound lover on a dime.
So How Good Is It?
This may very well be one of the best entry level middleweight sport bikes ever conceived, and in my humble opinion this motorcycle is worthy of respect from any rider, regardless of their experience level. Get on one, ride it, and see for yourself- you'll be glad you did.
Spec Streetfighter: 2011 The Kawasaki Z750R
Europe is the birthplace of the original streetfighter motorcycles, stripped-down sportbikes that engendered an entirely new class of production bikes termed "street-nakeds" or "sport standards," among other names. Europeans still love sporty bikes that come from the factory sans fairings, and in the last couple of years, Kawasaki has really hit the market sweet-spot with their Z750.
After the global financial crisis, however, sales began to taper off. Fortunately, Kawasaki has responded aggressively, introducing the new 2011 Kawasaki Z750R. New styling is the most marked departure from the bike's predecessor. There is an all-new bikini fairing up front, as well as new instrumentation in the gauge cluster. There is also a new muffler, or you can opt for an Akrapovic system for an additional cost. Other options include a spoiler and faux carbon fiber design pieces.
A hit all over europe and across the uk, the z750 will be joined in the kawasaki street-fighter stable for 2011 by the new z750r - set to get its uk public debut at the carole nash. Kawasaki unveils eagerly anticipated z750r looks awesome but at 500+ lbs , no thanks you tube you tube. 2011 kawasaki z750r official video - kawasaki z1000 forum kawasaki z750s in excellant condition very low mileage only 3981 tax till end of month mot april 2011 only needs new rear tyre /this was my wifes bike an.
After the global financial crisis, however, sales began to taper off. Fortunately, Kawasaki has responded aggressively, introducing the new 2011 Kawasaki Z750R. New styling is the most marked departure from the bike's predecessor. There is an all-new bikini fairing up front, as well as new instrumentation in the gauge cluster. There is also a new muffler, or you can opt for an Akrapovic system for an additional cost. Other options include a spoiler and faux carbon fiber design pieces.
2011 Kawasaki Z750R Action View
A hit all over europe and across the uk, the z750 will be joined in the kawasaki street-fighter stable for 2011 by the new z750r - set to get its uk public debut at the carole nash. Kawasaki unveils eagerly anticipated z750r looks awesome but at 500+ lbs , no thanks you tube you tube. 2011 kawasaki z750r official video - kawasaki z1000 forum kawasaki z750s in excellant condition very low mileage only 3981 tax till end of month mot april 2011 only needs new rear tyre /this was my wifes bike an.
Remembering the Vintage Goodwood Festival of 2010
Goodwood Vintage Festival – 13th 14th 15th August 2010
This summer sees the Vintage festival taking place at Goodwood. The 3 day concert party features music by Bob Marley’s band The Wailers, songstress Sandy Shaw and punk legends The Damned. Ronnie Wood (of Rolling Stones fame) will be debuting his new band Faces in their first festival performance. Vintage festival also sees a plethora of British Djs providing a vivifying soundtrack to the retro event. Also expect to see a lot of mesmerizing fashion (on and off the catwalk) and great musical acts performing on five curated and uniquely themed on site clubs.
WHAT IS VINTAGE AT GOODWOOD?
Vintage at Goodwood is the annual music and fashion led celebration of creative British cool from the 40s, 50s, 60s, 70s & 80s, featuring the leading DJs, bands, collectors, purveyors of vintage clothing and vintage vinyl from each decade, as well as contemporary bands and brands inspired by Britain’s rich creative and cultural heritage.
The New Festival of Britain
Vintage explores the musical, design and cultural lineages and explores where they are taking us. Think of Vintage at Goodwood as the new annual Festival of Britain. Whether your thing is Swing, Rockabilly, Mod, Soul, Funk, Disco, Ska, Electro, Burlesque, Film, Art & Design, or you just want to dress up and get an authentic ‘flat top’ and make-over for a day, Vintage at Goodwood is a visual, responsible, aural and sensual, a big family dressing up box, a collectors dream and a joyous creative feast for all ages.
On a truly breathtaking site, nestling into the South Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (and soon to be National Park) with access to the wonderful beaches and harbours of coastal West Sussex – Vintage at Goodwood brings together lovers of the music, fashions, food and lifestyles of the decades that gave Britain its creative heritage. And then there’s the accommodation. From onsite luxury of the Goodwood Hotel, camping with views to die for, Vintage at Goodwood will give you a unique opportunity to holiday in the most beautiful area of Southern England.
Vintage Curators
Vintage at Goodwood is the brainchild of designers Gerardine Hemingway MBE|, Wayne Hemingway MBE| – who started their business selling and customising second hand clothes and are now co-owners of Britain’s premier collection of cultural artefacts, The Land of Lost Content Museum|, and Lord March – mastermind behind the internationally acclaimed Goodwood Festival of Speed and Goodwood Revival, and proprietor of one of the largest organic farms in the south of England.
With the proven and award winning Goodwood and Hemingway Design teams backed up by a stellar collection of Vintage Curators, we promise an unparallel attention to design and organisational detail that will ensure that Vintage at Goodwood is an event to remember, the worlds annual holiday for lovers of cool popular culture.
There has never been anything like Vintage at Goodwood, come and join us and see why the world marvels at Britain’s contribution to 20th century culture.
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