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Mazda made a splash at Auto China 2024 in Beijing with the debut of the rear-wheel-drive EZ-6 sedan, stealing the spotlight at their stand. However, another notable premiere was the introduction of the Arata, a sleek electric SUV concept destined for production by the end of the following year.

Developed by Changan Mazda, a joint venture between Changan Automobile and Mazda, the Arata is likely to receive a different name for its production version, possibly an alphanumeric designation echoing Mazda’s other SUVs. The “EZ-60” nameplate has already been trademarked in China and could be a potential choice.

The Arata, meaning “new” or “fresh” in Japanese, offers a glimpse of an attractive electric SUV that may share a platform with an existing model. While the EZ-6 sedan is expected to be based on the Changan Depal SL03, the EZ-60 could derive from the Changan Deepal S7. However, significant design differences suggest that Mazda’s versions will appear more upscale and justify a potentially higher price tag.

As a concept, the Arata is an all-electric vehicle which will also offer a plug-in hybrid variant just like the EZ-6. It features Mazda’s signature Kodo design language, with sleek lines, illuminated grille, and distinct lighting elements front and rear. The concept incorporates cameras in place of traditional mirrors, eliminates door handles, and foregoes a rear wiper for a cleaner aesthetic. A spoiler with a vertical third brake light extends to the roof panel, while the quarter panel design creates the illusion of flying buttresses.

While Mazda has not confirmed plans to sell the sedan and SUV outside of China, where they will be manufactured, the vehicles are sure to generate excitement with their innovative designs and electric powertrains.

Mini Aceman ialah kemasukan terbaru Mini ke dalam segmen SUV subkompak, menawarkan gabungan ketangkasan bandar dan praktikal crossover. Dengan elemen reka bentuk yang dipinjam daripada Cooper hatchback dan Countryman SUV, Aceman mempersembahkan pakej tersendiri dan serba boleh.

Pendirian silangnya ditekankan oleh pelapisan plastik hitam matte, skid plate dan rel bumbung, manakala ciri reka bentuk Mini yang ikonik seperti wraparound greenhouse dan bumbung terapung kekal menonjol. Barisan ini termasuk empat kemasan, Essential, Classic, Favoured, dan JCW, masing-masing dengan sentuhan penggayaan yang unik, dan rim aloi antara 17 hingga 19 inci.

Di bahagian dalam, Aceman menawarkan kabin lima tempat duduk dengan 300 liter ruang kargo, menampilkan skrin sentuh OLED bulat 9.44 inci dan infotainmen Sistem Operasi Mini 9. Mod Pengalaman Mini dan Pembantu Peribadi Pintar “Spike” meningkatkan pengalaman pemanduan, manakala sistem advanced driver assistance memastikan keselamatan di jalan raya.

Dua pilihan rangkaian kuasa elektrik tersedia, dengan Aceman E peringkat permulaan menampilkan pek bateri 40.7 kWj dan motor 181hp, dan Aceman SE yang menawarkan pek bateri 54.2 kWj dan motor 215hp. Kedua-dua model menjanjikan pemanduan yang cekap dan bebas pelepasan CO2 dan memenuhi keperluan dan keutamaan pemanduan yang berbeza.

Mini Aceman dijadualkan mula dijual di pasaran seperti China dan Eropah akhir tahun ini, dengan pengeluaran pada mulanya bermula di China dan berkembang ke kilang Oxford Mini di UK pada 2026. Dengan gabungan reka bentuk ikonik Mini dan teknologi powertrain elektrik, Aceman menyasarkan untuk memberi impak yang ketara dalam segmen SUV subkompak.

The 2025 Porsche Cayenne GTS maintains Porsche’s GTS lineage of providing remarkable performance and value, presenting a compelling fusion of power, handling, and style.

Powered by an upgraded 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine, the Cayenne GTS delivers an impressive 493hp and 660Nm of torque. This enhancement, compared to the Cayenne S, results in a dynamic 0-100km/h acceleration of 4.4 seconds, ensuring an exhilarating driving experience.

The Cayenne GTS excels in handling, benefiting from Porsche’s meticulous tuning, featuring a specially-calibrated two-chamber air suspension, Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) adaptive dampers, and front axle pivot bearings borrowed from the Turbo GT model. These refinements enhance agility and precision, particularly on winding roads.

Aesthetically, the Cayenne GTS exudes athleticism with its revised front fascia, enlarged air intakes, tinted taillights, dark bronze exhaust tips, and gloss black accents. The Sport Design Package and standard 21-inch RS Spyder Design wheels further emphasise its sporty stance.

The Cayenne GTS Coupe variant offers additional enhancements such as an active rear spoiler and optional Sport Exhaust System, elevating its performance-oriented appeal. Enthusiasts can opt for lightweight packages, including a carbon fiber rear diffuser and reduced sound insulation, for a sharper driving experience.

The interior of the Cayenne GTS features a heated GT sports steering wheel as standard. The high-quality material Race-Tex can also be found throughout the car. The suede-like fabric covers the roof lining, armrests and door panels, as well as the centre panels of the eight-way-adjustable sports seats. The side bolsters have been further raised to offer even more lateral support when cornering. Two alternative, GTS-specific interior packages in Carmine Red or Slate Grey Neo are also available from Porsche for a more customised look.

Scheduled for release in the U.S. market for September 2024, the 2025 Porsche Cayenne GTS is priced at $126,895 (RM607,192) for the standard SUV and $131,495 (RM629,203) for the Coupe. While it commands a premium over the base Cayenne, the GTS offers an enticing balance of performance and affordability compared to the range-topping Turbo GT model.

The Cayenne GTS upholds the GTS tradition by delivering a thrilling driving experience at a competitive price point, making it an attractive option for enthusiasts seeking the optimal blend of performance in the Cayenne lineup.

WTC Automotif (M) Sdn Bhd (WTCA), anak syarikat Warisan TC Holdings Bhd, telah melancarkan secara rasmi GAC GS3 Emzoom 2024 di Malaysia.

Kenderaan utiliti sport (SUV) kompak ini kini boleh didapati dalam dua varian terbina sepenuhnya (CBU) untuk pasaran domestik, iaitu GS3 Emzoom Exclusive dan GS3 Emzoom Premium R. Harga rasminya ialah RM118,900 dan RM128,900 masing-masing.

GAC GS3 Emzoom kini dijual dalam empat warna terang: Salt Lake Blue, Ivory White, Graphene Grey dan Super Star Silver.

WTCA menawarkan Pakej Pelancaran Khas untuk 2000 pelanggan berdaftar awal yang pertama yang terdiri daripada:

A) Tiga kali penyelenggaraan perkhidmatan berjadual percuma termasuk buruh, alat ganti dan pelincir.

B) Waranti Enjin & Powertrain 7 Tahun/180,000km eksklusif untuk pemilik berdaftar pertama kenderaan sebagai tambahan kepada waranti standard 5 tahun/150,000km.

C) Yang awal ini juga akan menerima Kunci Jam Tangan Pintar GAC terhad percuma, yang berfungsi seperti kunci kereta asal dengan ciri sambungan tambahan jam tangan pintar.

GAC GS Emzoom mempunyai elemen reka bentuk yang tersendiri, termasuk Gril Wing Mecha yang ikonik, lampu LED Laser Eye Split dan lampu ekor Light Dart, mencipta siluet yang menawan dan futuristik dengan pencahayaan keterlihatan tinggi. Menambah daya tarikannya ialah Spoiler Belakang, yang menekankan persona keganasannya.

Melengkapkan ini ialah spoiler kecil ducktail yang dibentuk dengan lancar ke dalam kerja badan, gabungan yang biasanya terdapat dalam kereta yang lebih mewah dan eksotik. Daripada Pemegang Pintu Tersembunyi Elektrik kepada Pemilih Gear Shift Kristal, setiap perincian memancarkan kecanggihan, meningkatkan daya tarikan estetik keseluruhan.

Di bawah hud, enjin GDI 1.5T Generasi Ke-3 menjanjikan kuasa dan kecekapan, manakala ciri pintar seperti ekzos yang dipasang di tengah dan lantai rata belakang menjadikan kereta ini menonjol dalam gaya dan prestasi. Enjin itu menghasilkan 177PS pada 5500rpm dan 270Nm 1,400rpm. Ia mempunyai penarafan penggunaan bahan api 5.91/100km.

Melangkah ke dalam, GAC GS Emzoom terus menarik perhatian dengan bahagian dalam yang besar dan luas, menampilkan dalaman dwi-tona yang menambahkan bakat muda dan meningkatkan suasana keseluruhan dengan reka bentuk kontemporarinya.

Kabinnya yang moden dan luas menyediakan ruang serba lengkap dan selesa untuk pemandu dan penumpang. Bahagian dalamannya, ciri premium dan kemewahan, menyelitkan sentuhan moden, menawarkan teknologi canggih di hujung jari anda.

Dari segi teknologi, ciri-ciri canggih seperti sistem infotainmen skrin sentuh 10.25 inci dengan pencerminan telefon Apple CarPlay dan Android tanpa wayar, sistem kamera pandangan sekeliling, brek letak kereta elektronik dengan autohold adalah standard untuk semua varian.

Eksklusif kepada GS3 Emzoom Premium R ialah kemewahan tambahan kawalan iklim automatik, pelarasan kuasa enam hala untuk tempat duduk pemandu, pencahayaan persekitaran pelbagai warna, pengecas telefon pintar tanpa wayar, pintu belakang kuasa bebas tangan, Bantuan Tempat Letak Kereta Automatik Fusion (FAPA) dan bumbung matahari panoramik.

Keselamatan penghuni dalam GAC GS Emzoom dipertahankan oleh pelbagai ciri keselamatan aktif dan pasif serta Sistem Bantuan Pemandu Lanjutan (ADAS) terkini yang membolehkan pemanduan autonomi Tahap 2. Semua varian menampilkan beg udara hadapan dan sisi, brek cakera hadapan dan belakang, kawalan pegangan bukit, program kestabilan elektronik (ESP) dan penglihatan titik buta sebagai standard.

Suite ADAS yang komprehensif termasuk kawalan pelayaran (ACC), Brek Kecemasan Automatik (AEB), Amaran Perlanggaran Hadapan (FCW), Sistem Pengecaman Tanda Lalu Lintas (TSR), Amaran Berlepas Lorong (LDW) dan Kawalan Had Kelajuan Pintar (ISLC). High Beam Assist (HMA) dan Fusion Automatic Parking Assist tersedia dalam GS3 Emzoom Premium R.

WTC Automotif (M) Sdn Bhd (WTCA), a subsidiary of Warisan TC Holdings Bhd, has officially unveiled the 2024 GAC GS3 Emzoom in Malaysia.

The compact sports utility vehicle (SUV) is now available in two completely built-up (CBU) variants for the domestic market, namely the GS3 Emzoom Exclusive and GS3 Emzoom Premium R. They are officially priced at RM118,900 and RM128,900 respectively.

The Emzoom is now on sale in four vibrant colours: Salt Lake Blue, Ivory White, Graphene Grey and Super Star Silver.

WTCA is offering a Special Launch Package for the first 2000 early birds registered customers which consist of:

A) Three times complimentary scheduled service maintenance includes labour, parts and lubricants.

B) 7-Year/180,000km Engine & Powertrain Warranty exclusively for the first registered owner of the vehicle in addition to its standard 5 years/150,000km warranty.

C) These early birds will also receive a complimentary limited GAC Smart Watch Key, which functions like the original car key with the additional connectivity features of a smart watch.

The GAC GS Emzoom boasts distinctive design elements, including the iconic Mecha Wing Grille, Laser Eye Split LED lights, and Light Dart tail lights, creating a captivating and futuristic silhouette with high-visibility lighting. Adding to its allure is the Rear Spoiler, which emphasises its aggressive persona.

Complementing this is a small ducktail-style spoiler seamlessly moulded into the bodywork, a combination typically found in more luxurious and exotic cars. From the Electric Hidden Door Handles to the Crystal Shift Gear Selector, every detail exudes sophistication, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal.

Beneath the hood, the 3rd Generation 1.5T GDI engine promises power and efficiency, while intelligent features like the mid-mounted exhaust and rear flat floor make this car stand out in style and performance. The engine produces 177PS at 5500rpm and 270Nm 1,400rpm. It has a fuel consumption rating of 5.91/100km.

Step inside, the GAC GS Emzoom continues to impress with its large and spacious interior, featuring a dual-tone interior that adds a youthful flair and enhances the overall ambience with its contemporary design. Its modern and spacious cabin provides an all-rounded, comfy space for both driver and passengers.

In terms of technology, advanced features such as a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android phone mirroring, surround-view camera system, electronic parking brake with autohold are standard throughout the range.

Exclusive to the GS3 Emzoom Premium R is the added luxury of automatic climate control, six-way power adjustment for the driver seat, multi-colour ambient lighting, wireless smartphone charger, hands-free power tailgate, Fusion Automatic Parking Assist (FAPA) and a panoramic sunroof.

Occupant safety in Emzoom is upheld by a wide range of active and passive safety features as well as the latest Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) enabling Level 2 autonomous driving. All variants feature front and side airbags, front and rear disc brakes, hill hold control, electronic stability program (ESP) and blind spot vision as standard.

The comprehensive ADAS suite includes cruise control (ACC), Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB), Front Collision Warning (FCW), Traffic Sign Recognition System (TSR), Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Intelligent Speed Limit Control (ISLC). High Beam Assist (HMA) and Fusion Automatic Parking Assist are available in the GS3 Emzoom Premium R.

Terdapat spekulasi mengenai kemungkinan kemasukan BYD Seal U ke dalam pasaran automotif Malaysia. Seal U, yang digemari kerana gabungan teknologi termaju, dalaman yang luas dan teknologi canggih, telah menangkap perhatian pemandu Malaysia yang mencari pilihan pengangkutan yang mampan.

Menambahkan lagi jangkaan ialah kehadiran model BYD Seal AWD dan RWD yang sudahpun menjadi tumpuan di Malaysia, meletakkan asas untuk ketibaan Seal U yang tidak lama lagi.

Kini tersedia di Eropah, BYD Seal U menawarkan dua varian: Comfort dan Design. Seal U mempunyai lampu depan berbentuk U berkembar dengan kelompok cahaya untuk keterlihatan yang dipertingkatkan, manakala bahagian belakangnya mempamerkan lampu belakang berterusan dengan corak matriks titisan air.

Dari segi dimensi, Seal U berdiri 4,785mm panjang, 1,890mm lebar, dan 1,668mm tinggi, dengan jarak roda 2,765mm, sedikit lebih besar daripada Atto 3. Seal U menunggang pada roda aerodinamik 19-inci yang kononnya membantu meningkatkan jarak pemanduan.

Di dalam, Seal U mempersembahkan dalaman yang futuristik, menampilkan konsol tengah floating dan ruang penyimpanan dua lapisan. Skrin sentuh boleh putar yang besar berfungsi sebagai hab kawalan pusat untuk ketersambungan dan infotainmen, dilengkapi dengan teknologi head-up display untuk maklumat penting.

Dengan GPS sebagai standard dan pelbagai app, termasuk Android Auto dan Apple CarPlay, sistem sambungan 4G BYD Seal U menyediakan pengalaman pemanduan ultra-pintar dengan infotainmen moden dan kawalan suara. Ia juga termasuk peningkatan melalui udara (OTA).

Dari segi kargo, Seal U menawarkan 552 liter kapasiti tapi boleh dikembangkan kepada 1,440 liter dengan tempat duduk belakang dilipat ke bawah.

Pengecasan adalah pantas, dengan pengecasan DC 140 kW membolehkan 30% hingga 80% State of Charge dalam masa 28 minit sahaja. Varian Comfort menempatkan bateri 71.8 kWj dan menyediakan jarak sehingga 420km, manakala varian Design mempunyai bateri 87 kWj, menawarkan jarak sehingga 500km.

BYD Blade bateri lithium iron phosphate kuasa kedua-dua varian. Jumlah keluaran kuasa ialah 217PS dan tork 330Nm dengan kelajuan tertinggi 175km/j dan kuasa dihantar ke roda hadapan.

Dari segi keselamatan, Seal U mempunyai penarafan Euro NCAP lima bintang dan menampilkan pelbagai ciri keselamatan aktif dan pasif yang penting untuk keluarga, termasuk markah tertinggi dalam pelbagai ujian impak dan penilaian pemasangan tempat duduk kanak-kanak.

Walaupun BYD Seal menyaingi Tesla Model 3, BYD Seal U pula menentang Tesla Model Y, yang berharga dari RM199,000 hingga RM288,000. BYD perlu bijak tentang harga mereka, tetapi berdasarkan strategi harganya sejak akhir-akhir ini, BYD Malaysia mungkin tidak terlalu mengambil berat tentang Tesla.

Speculation is swirling regarding the potential entry of the BYD Seal U into the Malaysian automotive market. The Seal U, loved for its fusion of cutting-edge technology, spacious interior, and advanced tech, has captured the imagination of Malaysian drivers seeking sustainable transportation options. 

Compounding the anticipation is the presence of the BYD Seal AWD and RWD models which are already making waves in Malaysia, laying the groundwork for the Seal U’s imminent arrival.

Currently available in Europe, the BYD Seal U offers two variants: Comfort and Design. The Seal U boasts double U-shaped headlights with light clusters for enhanced visibility, while its rear showcases a continuous taillight with a waterdrops matrix pattern.

Dimension-wise, the Seal U stands 4,785mm long, 1,890mm wide, and 1,668 mm tall, with a wheelbase of 2,765mm, slightly larger than the Atto 3. The Seal U rides on 19-inch aerodynamic wheels which supposedly help to improve range.

Inside, the Seal U presents a futuristic interior, featuring a floating centre console and double-layer storage compartments. A large rotatable touchscreen serves as the central control hub for connectivity and infotainment, complemented by head-up display technology for essential information projection.

With GPS as standard and a variety of Apps, including Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, the BYD Seal U’s 4G connectivity system provides an ultra-smart driving experience with modern infotainment and intuitive voice control. It also includes over-the-air (OTA) upgrades.

Cargo-wise, the Seal U offers 552 litres of boot capacity, expandable to 1,440 litres with rear seats folded down, catering to various storage needs.

Charging is swift, with 140 kW DC rapid charging enabling 30% to 80% State of Charge in just 28 minutes. The Comfort variant houses a 71.8 kWh battery, providing up to 420km of range, while the Design variant boasts an 87 kWh battery, offering up to 500km of range. 

BYD Blade lithium iron phosphate batteries power both variants. The total power output is 217PS and 330Nm of torque with a top speed of 175km/h and power is sent to the front wheels.

Safety-wise, the Seal U has a five-star Euro NCAP rating and features a range of active and passive safety features essential for families, including top scores in various impact tests and child seat installation ratings.

While the BYD Seal rivals the Tesla Model 3, the BYD Seal U is up against the Tesla Model Y, which is priced from RM199,000 to RM288,000. So BYD has to play its cards right to outsell Tesla, but judging by its pricing strategy of late, BYD Malaysia may not be too concerned about Tesla. 

In a monumental achievement for the automotive industry, Global Conversions, a pioneering company specialising in Left to Right-Hand Drive conversions, has announced the successful conversion of the world’s first Hummer EV SUV to Right-Hand Drive. This milestone represents a historic breakthrough, underscoring the company’s steadfast dedication to innovation, excellence, and customer satisfaction.

Guided by the visionary leadership of chairman Suresh Edirisinghe, Global Conversions draws upon over 78 years of collective experience in the conversion sector. Building upon the legacy of his father’s esteemed company, Edirisinghe Brothers Ltd., Mr. Edirisinghe has steered Global Conversions to the forefront of the industry through invaluable knowledge and expertise.

The strategic relocation of operations from Sri Lanka to Ras Al-Khaimah reflects the company’s commitment to expanding its global presence and facilitating accessibility for customers worldwide. Despite this transition, Global Conversions remains deeply rooted in upholding its heritage, culture, and proficiency across all facets of its operations.

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The Bentley Bentayga S Black Edition brings a captivating new appearance package to the pinnacle of luxury SUVs. Embracing a sleek black-trimmed aesthetic, this trim package introduces the first-ever black Bentley logo in over a century, adding a touch of modern elegance to the iconic brand.

While Bentley offers a wide range of exterior paint colours, opting for one of the striking black options not only aligns with the model’s name but also complements the historic black logo, a nod to Bentley’s heritage spanning more than a century. The inclusion of the gloss black Bentley emblem pays homage to the brand’s earliest days, infusing the Bentayga Black Edition with a sense of timeless sophistication. This marks the first application of black-tinted wings to a Bentley in 105 years.

Customisation extends to the choice of accent stripe and brake calliper colour, with seven vibrant options available to add a personalised touch. The selected accent hue is mirrored in the interior, where it adorns the contrast stitching and piping of the luxurious leather upholstery. Bentley has also revamped the interior with a new carbon-fibre weave, enhancing the dash, centre console, and door panels with a contemporary aesthetic.

 

Under the hood, the Bentayga S Black Edition offers the choice between a potent turbocharged 3.0-litre V-6 hybrid powertrain or a robust twin-turbo 5.2-litre V-8 engine. The hybrid variant delivers a combined 455hp, while the V-8 variant boasts an impressive 542hp, propelling the Bentayga to 100km/h in a swift 3.3 seconds.

As for pricing, Bentley has yet to release details for the Black Edition, but given its exclusive enhancements and refined design elements, it’s sure to capture the attention of discerning enthusiasts seeking the epitome of luxury and style in an SUV.

Alfa Romeo has unveiled the Milano as its latest addition to the SUV lineup and its first-ever series-production electric car.

Named after the brand’s hometown, the Milano is an urban-focused crossover that aims to capture the essence of the Giulietta and Mito hatchbacks while offering premium appeal and engaging driving dynamics to attract a new generation of Alfisti.

Jean-Philippe Imparato, Alfa Romeo boss, stated that the Milano is designed to transition the brand “from exclusive to inclusive,” emphasising its position alongside the ultra-exclusive 33 Stradale. He noted, “Alfa is the only brand that is able to sell a car at €2 million and €30,000.”

With dimensions of 4170mm length, 1780mm width, and 1500mm height, the Milano incorporates bold new design elements while paying homage to Alfa’s heritage with features like swollen wheel arches, a ‘coda tronca’ bluff rear end, and SZ-inspired headlights. Its distinctive front-end grille features stylised elements from the brand’s logo in electric versions. For reference, the smart #1 measures 4270mm in length, 1636mm in height, and 1822mm in width.

The Milano is available with either electric or mild-hybrid petrol power, sharing a platform with models like the Citroën C4, Fiat 600, Jeep Avenger, and Peugeot 2008. The Milano Ibrida combines a 1.2-litre three-cylinder petrol engine with a 48V starter-generator and a 28bhp electric motor for 134bhp and the option of short-distance EV driving. The Milano Elettrica features a 54kWh battery, offering a range of 410km and a front-mounted 154bhp motor for engaging performance.

Alfa emphasises the Milano’s driving dynamics, boasting optimal mass distribution and best-in-class handling tuned by the same team responsible for the Giulia GTA super-saloon. The top-tier Veloce variant offers the most driver-focused experience with a 237bhp motor, Torsen limited-slip differential, and agile chassis upgrades.

Technological features include LED matrix lights, a virtual assistant, and hands-free boot lid, while premium trims offer massaging seats and ambient lighting.

The same inspiration of pure sportiness can be found inside the car, where the standout features are the Italian attention to every detail, the use of the finest materials and the placement of all the controls within the driver’s reach. The instrument panel and its historical ‘Cannocchiale’ design creates that direct visual connection and persuades you to wrap your hands around the steering wheel, start the engine, and make the best of a unique driving experience.

In the middle of the cluster, the standout feature is a fully digital 10.25-inch TFT screen, to access the car’s data and the settings for the driving technologies. In the middle of the dashboard and oriented towards the driver, a 10.25-inch touchscreen system developed to work with widgets, graphic components designed for intuitive interaction with all the features, which can be customised via quick and easy drag and drop. Every user can create their own homepage, where each of the car’s features is an app in itself.

To further embellish the interior, the air conditioning vents in the shape of a quadrifoglio (four-leaf clover), the symbol par excellence of Alfa Romeo sportiness.  To catch the eye and welcome the driver, optional Sabelt sports seats are available featuring an enveloping backrest that combines high mechanical resistance, perfect ergonomics and structural lightness.

The Milano is available for order in Italy and will launch in 28 markets over the next six months.

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