Miura P400 Roadster: The Million-Dollar Lamborghini

ONE-OFF - Lamborghini's legacy is punctuated with iconic sports cars that have left an indelible mark on the automotive world. Among these legends stands the Lamborghini Miura P400 Roadster, a truly exclusive gem that made its debut at the 1968 Brussels Auto Show. Crafted and conceptualized by Bertone, this open-top beauty was no ordinary Lamborghini with its roof removed. Unlike its predecessor, the 350 GTS by Touring, the Miura Roadster underwent a comprehensive redesign, showcasing exceptional taste and innovation.

1968 Lamborghini Miura P400 Roadster. (Picture from: DrivingLine)

Adapting a model like the Miura for a soft-top version was a formidable challenge. The Miura was notorious for its torsional rigidity issues, and simply removing the roof could have exacerbated the problem. To tackle this challenge, Bertone's Marcello Gandini took the reins and embarked on a journey to strengthen the chassis while making substantial alterations to the car's rear.

Right side view of 1968 Lamborghini Miura P400 Roadster. (Picture from: DrivingLine)

To ensure a smooth ride even at the proposed top speed of 186 mph, several crucial modifications were made. The windscreen's angle was lowered, a rear spoiler was integrated, engine louvers were omitted, and the exhaust system was expertly rerouted. The interior also received significant changes. Notably, the overhead console switches from the standard Miura had to be relocated, eventually finding their place on the central console. Furthermore, the Bertone steering wheel bore a striking resemblance to the one featured in the Marzal and the Espada prototypes, both of which were Bertone creations as well.

Interior view of 1968 Lamborghini Miura P400 Roadster. (Picture from: DrivingLine)

The Miura P400 Roadster donned a stunning bright-metallic azure blue exterior, while the interior boasted magnolia-hued leather upholstery, almost resembling white leather, reminiscent of the first 350 GTV. The impact of this showstopper prototype was enormous in Brussels and later in Geneva. However, it was destined to remain a unique creation. Many enthusiasts and collectors expressed their desire for a Miura Roadster from the Lamborghini factory. Nevertheless, Automobili Lamborghini SpA never officially produced a Miura Roadster, let alone crafted a replica. It's worth noting that Bertone also refrained from adding a top or side windows to this prototype.

A high angle rear view of 1968 Lamborghini Miura P400 Roadster. (Picture from: LamboCars)

The Miura P400 Roadster found a new home with the International Zinc and Lead Development Association (ILZRO), which utilized it as an exhibition showcase to highlight the properties of the metals they were eager to promote. Collaborating with the factory and Bertone, they reimagined the car, changed its color, and christened it as "Zn75."

When the car sold to ILZRO, the 1968 Lamborghini Miura P400 Roadster changed color and name to Zn75. (Picture from: DrivingLine)

Following its tenure with ILZRO, the car went through various owners until it was meticulously restored to its original appearance and specifications. Its grand return took place at the prestigious 2008 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. In 2013, CNN sought the expertise of Hagerty Insurance to appraise this exceptional Lamborghini. The valuation that emerged was nothing short of astonishing, with a price range estimated between $8,000,000 and $10,000,000, solidifying its status as the most valuable Lamborghini ever.

In conclusion, the Miura P400 Roadster stands as a testament to the unparalleled artistry and innovation that Lamborghini and Bertone brought to the world of automotive design. Its unique blend of style, power, and exclusivity continues to captivate enthusiasts and collectors, making it a true icon in the realm of sports cars. This remarkable creation remains a testament to the enduring legacy of Lamborghini, a name synonymous with uncompromising excellence in the world of high-performance automobiles. *** [EKA [21072015] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | LAMBOCARS.COM | DRIVINGLINE]

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Johannes P. Paulussen's Beradino: A Hidden Gem in Sports Car Innovation

Hidden GEMS - In the fiercely competitive world of automotive design, many lesser-known sports car brands struggle to gain recognition among enthusiasts. However, the relentless creativity of passionate individuals transcends boundaries, leading to the creation of spectacular works of art that can rival those produced by industry giants.

The Beradino is a remarkable Italian classic sports car born from the vision of Johannes P. Paulussen, a talented German designer. (Picture from: Blog.DuPontRegestry)

Such is the case with Beradino, a remarkable sports car born from the vision of Johannes P. Paulussen, a talented German designer. Hailing from a modest middle-class background, Paulussen received invaluable advice from his father, a skilled carpenter. His father's words resonated deeply, emphasizing the importance of crafting one's own path to achieve one's dreams, even if it meant creating something as complex as a car from scratch.

Johannes P. Paulussen completes his Beradino dream sports car after an astounding 7,000 hours of labor. (Picture from: RareComponentCars)

In 1961, a young Johannes P. Paulussen embarked on a journey to bring his unique car design to life. After completing elementary school in 1967, he enrolled in the Automotive Technology program at the Technical University in Aachen, Germany. It was during this period that Beradino began to take shape, with Paulussen meticulously designing a bespoke tubular steel chassis and crafting a buck for the car's fiberglass bodywork using wood and plaster.

The Beradino cabin accommodates two passengers in a pair of ergonomic racing bucket seats, equipped with a three-spoke racing steering wheel, and features a unique central instrument panel placement. (Picture from: Goodwood)

While the aesthetics of the Paulussen sports car draw inspiration from Italian classics, its drivetrain features an air-cooled engine akin to the iconic German sports car, the Porsche 911. The engine is traditionally positioned at the rear of the car, aligning perfectly with the car's distinct body shape. When it comes to the nomenclature of his dream car, Paulussen revealed that it was influenced by a Western movie he happened to watch in 1968, where one of the actors bore the name John Beradino. The name Beradino etched itself into his mind and became the moniker for his dream car.

The Beradino sports car's versatility shines through with three roof configurations that can be effortlessly switched to transform its appearance into a fastback, notch-back with a decklid, or a full roadster. (Picture from: RareComponentCars)

The Beradino boasts a distinctive design, artfully blending elements from renowned vehicles like the Ferrari 250 GTO, Ford GT40, and Alfa Romeo Canguro. Its proportions can be deceptive, leading many to believe it's a front-engine GT car. However, the car's versatility shines through with three roof configurations that can be effortlessly switched to transform its appearance into a fastback, notch-back with a decklid, or a full roadster.

While the aesthetics of the Paulussen sports car draw inspiration from Italian classics, its drivetrain features an air-cooled engine akin to the iconic German sports car, the Porsche 911. (Picture from: RareComponentCars)

After an astounding 7,000 hours of labor, the dream car became a reality and successfully received roadworthy certification from German authorities. Johannes P. Paulussen made it his personal daily driver until 1992. However, as his teaching career and family responsibilities took precedence, the car went into storage for 17 long years.

The Beradino boasts a distinctive design, artfully blending elements from renowned vehicles like the Ferrari 250 GTO, Ford GT40, and Alfa Romeo Canguro. (Picture from: Goodwood)

It wasn't until 2009 that the Beradino sports car emerged from its hibernation, embarking on an extensive restoration process that spanned two years and required 3,000 man-hours of meticulous craftsmanship. This painstaking effort breathed new life into the Beradino, and it soon made appearances at prestigious classic car shows, including Essen, Goodwood, and Castle Classic Days, where it clinched the coveted "Best Prototype" award in 2011.

In more recent times, Johannes P. Paulussen has contemplated producing additional Beradino examples and is actively seeking investors to support this ambitious endeavor. Only time will tell if this new dream can be transformed into reality. Given that most individuals never progress beyond the concept stage when pursuing such audacious goals, we should not underestimate the significance of Paulussen's remarkable achievement in bringing the Beradino to life. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | BERADINO | RARECOMPONENTCARS | GOODWOOD | BLOG.DUPONTREGISTRY  ]

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A Journey Through Time: Frank Westfall's Unique Motorcycle

ONE-OFF - In the realm of motorcycle enthusiasts, a captivating history unfolds, characterized by passion-driven projects that culminate in truly remarkable outcomes. Among these, a project that has earned widespread acclaim is the extraordinary motorcycle owned by Frank Westfall, who is not only a prominent motorcycle collector but also a well-known local figure in Syracuse, where he runs Middle Earth Leather Works. This exceptional motorcycle, crafted in the art-deco style, has left admirers and onlookers in awe as it elegantly traverses the city streets.

1930 Excelsior KJ Henderson custom motorcycle is built and designed by Orley Ray Courtney. (Picture from: BikeExif)

This extraordinary masterpiece finds its roots in the chassis of a 1930 Henderson KJ Model 'Streamline' Four motorcycle, a timeless classic. Crafted by the master motorcycle builder Orley Ray Courtney in 1936, this motorcycle stands as a testament to the harmonious union of artistic ingenuity and engineering excellence. At its core lies an inline four-cylinder engine, producing 40 bhp at 4,000rpm, propelling the machine to an impressive top speed of around 100 mph (160 kph).

1930 Henderson 1,301cc Model KJ 'Streamline' Four was the base of the Orley Ray Courtney's art-deco style custom motorcycle. (Picture from: Cars.Bonham)

The KJ body shell, which stands as a symbol of radical innovation, represents a departure from the conventional. This streamlined marvel defies traditional design, boasting a curved, vertical-bar grille reminiscent of the Chrysler Airflow, one of iconic cars of 1930s while its rear end exudes the elegance of an Auburn boat-tail speedster. Each of its panels has been meticulously hand-formed from steel, a laborious process executed with precision and a power hammer.

In the annals of motorcycle history, Henderson was once a respected marque, owned by the renowned American motorcycle manufacturer, Excelsior Motor Mfg. & Supply Co. During the 1930s, it stood tall among the "Big Three" of American motorcycle companies, alongside Harley-Davidson and Indian.

1930 Excelsior KJ Henderson custom motorcycle is powered by an inline four-cylinder of 40 bhp at 4,000rpm, which can be made it run at the top speed of 100 mph (approx 160 kph). (Picture from: AFinePress)

Regrettably, the Henderson marque has faded into obscurity, with a brief attempt at revival in the late 1990s. The enigmatic figure behind the design, Orley Ray Courtney, remains a mystery to many. However, his name resurfaces in a 1953 Popular Science article, accompanied by images of another motorcycle he transformed in 1950, reflecting the evolving style of the times.

1930 Excelsior KJ Henderson custom motorcycle is owned by a collector named Frank Westfall of Syracuse, and had caused a stir in June 2010 when it appeared at the Rhinebeck Grand National Meet. (Picture from: AutoEvolution)

The meticulous restoration and reconstruction efforts undertaken by Frank Westfall are nothing short of awe-inspiring. The unique motorcycle, with its captivating form and undeniable charm, made a significant impact when it graced the Rhineback Grand National Meet in June 2010. This motorcycle show, located just a few hours' drive north of New York City, provided the perfect stage for the world to witness this magnificent creation in all its glory.

Should you possess additional insights or information related to this remarkable marque, we welcome your contributions and comments in the section below. Frank Westfall's art-deco styled motorcycle continues to captivate, reminding us of the boundless possibilities when passion and creativity converge in the world of motorcycle customization. If you're intrigued by the modern version, explore NMoto and Jakusa-Design's motorbike offerings.

Kept spur your adrenaline on the power of the two-wheeled monster and stay alive with true safety riding. May God will forgive Your sins and so does the cops...... *** [EKA [01072020] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | DRIVE2.RU | BIKEEXIF.COM | CORE77 | AUTO EVOLUTION | CARS.BONHAM | AFINEPRESS | FUZZYGALORE | MIKEZINE ]

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Behind the Design: The Innovative Features of Kaiser Darrin 161

Rare ONES - In the mid-1950s, American automotive manufacturers were driven by a fervent desire to create a sports car capable of competing with European roadsters. This era saw the emergence of iconic vehicles like the Ford Thunderbird, the GM Corvette, and the Kaiser Darrin.

1954 Kaiser Darrin 161 Sports Convertible. (Picture from: ConceptCarz)

For the last name, it all began when Dutch automotive designer Howard Darrin presented a remarkable car prototype to Henry J. Kaiser in 1952. Even though Kaiser was not initially involved in the 'sports car' business, the sheer uniqueness of the design compelled him to venture into this new territory.

The Kaiser Darrin 161 Sports Convertible was an embodiment of innovation, featuring several distinctive characteristics. Notably, it boasted a revolutionary door design that could be slid into the front fenders, giving it a distinct and futuristic appearance. Furthermore, the elongated front fenders were thoughtfully balanced with an extended rear overhang.

Interior view of 1954 Kaiser Darrin 161 Sports Convertible. (Picture from: ConceptCarz)

The car's body was primarily constructed from lightweight fiberglass, weighing a mere 300 lbs (approximately 136 kg). This reduced the overall weight of the car to just 2,176 lbs (987.9 kg). The initial prototypes were produced by Glaspar, a specialized boat and kit car company located in Santa Ana, California.

Luxury features were also a hallmark of the Kaiser Darrin 161 Sports Convertible. It came equipped with a three-point canvas roof that utilized French landau iron for added elegance. The interior of the car featured an exclusive design with full pleated leather that could be customized to the buyer's preferences. This luxury, however, came at a price, and the Kaiser Darrin 161 Sports Convertible was considered quite expensive in its time, with a price tag of US $3,668 or roughly Rp.41.8 million.

Rear side view of 1954 Kaiser Darrin 161 Sports Convertible. (Picture from: ConceptCarz)

The first production models were built on the J chassis and featured a Willys six-cylinder engine with a capacity of 2.6 liters. This engine produced up to 125 bhp (93.2 kW) of power and was paired with a three-speed manual transmission. The inclusion of a three-carburetor setup allowed the Kaiser Darrin to achieve an impressive top speed of 95 mph (152 km/h).

In 1955, when Kaiser-Willys ceased production, Darrin took the initiative to fit the remaining cars with Cadillac V8 engines. This enhancement significantly boosted the car's power output to 300 bhp, propelling it to the ranks of the fastest sports cars in the United States at the time.

In total, only 435 units of the Kaiser Darrin 161 Sports Convertible were produced, with the final 100 units featuring the Cadillac V8 engine. Thanks to its iconic design and rarity, the Kaiser Darrin 161 Sports Convertible has become one of the most sought-after cars among automotive collectors worldwide.

Today, this classic sports car remains a testament to the innovative spirit of its time and a reflection of the American automotive industry's pursuit of excellence in the sports car arena. Its unique door design and luxurious features continue to captivate enthusiasts and collectors, making it a prized gem in the world of vintage automobiles. With its historical significance and enduring appeal, the Kaiser Darrin 161 Sports Convertible stands as a remarkable chapter in the annals of automotive history. *** [EKA [10072015]  | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CONCEPTCARZ]

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Vespa Sprint 150 Veloce: An Indonesian Scarce Scooters of the 1970s

In Memmoriam: MALELA - Today, we delve into the fascinating world of classic Vespa scooters from the 1970s in Indonesia, a relic of the past that remains a cherished rarity. Our focus is on the Vespa Sprint 150 Veloce, a scooter with a unique charm that has left an indelible mark on enthusiasts. I am fortunate to be among the proud owners of this vintage gem, and I will share some insights and images of my own prized Vespa Sprint 150 Veloce.

My 1974 Vespa Sprint 150 Veloce (right) posed along with another Indonesian's Vespa model, 2003 Vespa Exclusive 2. (Picture from: My Private Scooters)

The Vespa Sprint 150 Veloce, a scooter briefly introduced in Indonesia during the 1970s, holds a special place in the hearts of collectors. Recognizable by its round headlights, this model is commonly referred to in Indonesia as the Vespa Sprint Bagol, although some units feature square headlights. What sets this kind of Vespa apart is its distinctive appearance, with those round headlights and a sleek, elongated rear body section that exudes elegance.

What sets this Vespa Sprint 150 Veloce apart is its distinctive appearance, with those round headlights and a sleek, elongated rear body section that exudes elegance. (Picture from: My Private Scooters)

One of the standout features of the Vespa Sprint Bagol is its eye-catching jade green indicator light on the front. This indicator illuminates when the lights and other electrical components are in use, adding a unique touch to this already captivating Vespa.

Interestingly, the Vespa Sprint 150 Veloce's headlights bear a striking resemblance to those of the Vespa GL (Gran Lusso) 150 (VLA), making it like as if a successor to these renowned models. In other part of the world, the Vespa Sprint 150 Veloce enjoyed a decade-long production run from 1965 to 1976, captivating riders worldwide.

One of the standout features of the Vespa Sprint 150 Veloce is its eye-catching jade green indicator light on the front. (Picture from: My Private Scooters)

In contrast, in Indonesia, PT. Danmotors Vespa Indonesia, the custodian of the Vespa brand at the time, only produced the Vespa Sprint 150 Veloce for a brief period, specifically in 1974-1975. This marked the end of Vespa Sprint production in the country, replaced by Vespa PX150. The Vespa Sprint 150 Veloce quickly became a trendsetter in the local scooter scene, even commanding premium prices compared to other classic Vespas.

The Vespa Sprint 150 Veloce, or Vespa Bagol powered by a 2-stroke, 145.45cc engine with a single-cylinder air-cooled design, it churn out 7.7 horsepower at 5,200 rpm, propelling this kind of Vespa to a top speed of 97 kph. (Picture from: GridOto)

A curious fact about the Vespa Sprint 150 Veloce with round headlights, or bagol, is that it initially faced resistance on the island of Java. The rounded headlight shape was seen as old-fashioned, leading many Sprint buyers to replace their round headlights with square ones. Some even went the extra mile, opting to modify their scooters to have square headlights. As a result, the remaining stock of units with round headlights found its way to other regions, including Sumatra, where both round and square headlight versions were embraced.

Admire the Vespa Sprint 150 Veloce's beauty and elegance from an overhead perspective. (Picture from: Pinterest)

On the right side of the Vespa Sprint 150 Veloce, or Vespa Bagol, nests a 2-stroke, 145.45cc engine with a single-cylinder air-cooled design. This powerhouse churns out 7.7 horsepower at 5,200 rpm, propelling this kind of Vespa to a top speed of 97 kilometers per hour.

Another typical features of this kind of Vespa is the headlight composition, Vespa incorporated parts from Aprilia or Siem. Worth noting is that Vespa models released in 1974 sport crankcases with a Piaggio's spade logo (Indonesian called cung or waru), whereas previous model of 1960s most crankcases have a crossed out 'P' logo.

As the years have passed, classic Vespas like the Vespa Sprint 150 Veloce with round headlights have grown increasingly scarce. Consequently, these gems have become highly sought-after, with their prices steadily rising. If you're considering owning a Vespa Sprint Bagol of your own, it's essential to be well-informed about its distinct characteristics before making a purchase. Exercise caution and don't hesitate to seek guidance from trusted experts in the field. Owning and maintaining a Vespa Sprint 150 Veloce is not just a passion; it's a journey into the history of these iconic scooters in Indonesia.

Kept spur your adrenaline on the power of the two-wheeled monster and stay alive with true safety riding. May God will forgive Your sins and so does the cops...... *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | WIKIPEDIA ]

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The Forgotten Dodge Intrepid ESX Series: A Tale of Fuel Efficiency

Forgotten ONES - Before Dodge adopted the iconic muscle car persona, the brand ventured into an entirely different territory in pursuit of innovation. In 1988, Dodge introduced a concept that could have rewritten the brand's history had it not been largely forgotten—the Dodge Intrepid. This article delves into the journey of Dodge, from its quest to create a halo car to the birth of the Dodge Intrepid ESX Series, a response to a challenge presented by U.S. President Bill Clinton.

The Dodge Intrepid ESX I while sat on display at the 1996 Chicago Auto Show. (Picture from: CarStyling.ru)

In 1993, the Chrysler Corporation embarked on a mission to develop a vehicle that not only met the modern consumer's demands but also achieved an unprecedented fuel efficiency of 80 miles per US gallon (2.9 L/100 km; 96.1 mpg‑imp). This endeavor was part of the Partnership for a New Generation of Vehicles (PNGV) project, which involved the three major American car manufacturers.

1. Dodge ESX 1 - 1996

The first step towards exceeding 80 mpg resulted in the creation of the Intrepid ESX. While it was a series hybrid, it employed what could be considered "conventional technology." Chrysler invested approximately $3 million in this project, incorporating exotic materials in its construction. The ESX was the brainchild of Bob Boniface, who later designed the 1998 production Dodge Intrepid.

The 1996 Dodge Intrepid ESX was conceived by Bob Boniface, who subsequently designed the 1998 production version of the Dodge Intrepid.. (Picture from: CarStyling.ru)

The heart of the ESX was a series hybrid-drive propulsion system designed to utilize 40% of gasoline's potential energy, a significant improvement compared to the typical car's utilization of only 15% due to varying RPM ranges. Power came from a VM Motori 1.8 L three-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine, diverting its energy to a 180 lb (82 kg), 300 V TMF battery developed by Bolder Technologies in Golden, Colorado, along with two oil-cooled electric wheel motors. These electric motors were also integral to the regenerative braking system, capturing energy that would normally be lost through the disc brakes.

2. Dodge ESX II - 1998

The second iteration of the ESX line, the ESX II, completed testing in 1998 and brought several improvements over its predecessor. Labeled a "mybrid" (mild hybrid), it relied less on the battery, featuring two motors working in tandem: a 1.5 L 74 bhp direct-injection diesel and a 20 bhp AC-induction electric motor. This system also included a 5-speed electronically shifted manual transmission, a nickel-metal hydride battery pack, and components from the Patriot hybrid race-car program. The primary power source remained the diesel engine, while the electric motor charged the batteries, enhanced acceleration, and facilitated the reverse gear.

The Dodge Intrepid ESX II is completed testing in 1998 and brought several improvements over its predecessor. (Picture from: OldConceptCars)

To minimize costs and weight, Chrysler equipped the ESX II with an unpainted thermoplastic body attached to an aluminum frame, offering low aerodynamic drag. The interior featured trim constructed from carbon fiber, and the seats were made from a tube frame. Astonishingly, the final cost was only $15,000 more than a standard Intrepid, totaling around $37,000.

3. Dodge ESX III - 2003

In 2003, the ESX III marked a significant leap in fuel efficiency and cost reduction, achieved through various technological advancements. This "mybrid" electric powertrain combined an efficient diesel engine, an electric motor, and a lithium-ion battery, delivering an average of 72 miles per gallon (3.3 liters/100 km), surpassing its 1998 predecessor by two miles per gallon and approaching PNGV's 80 mpg target.

The Dodge Intrepid ESX III marked a significant leap in fuel efficiency and cost reduction, achieved through various technological advancements and debuted in 2003. (Picture from: AllCarIndex)

Daimler-Chrysler engineers introduced an electro-mechanical automatic transmission (EMAT), combining the fuel efficiency of a manual transmission with the convenience of an automatic. The lightweight body utilized injection-molded thermoplastics to reduce weight and costs. Despite weighing just 2,250 pounds (1020 kg), the ESX III met all federal safety standards, offering the roominess and comfort of a modern family sedan. Furthermore, more than 80 percent of the vehicle was recyclable.

The Dodge Intrepid ESX III met all federal safety standards, offering the roominess and comfort of a modern family sedan. Furthermore, more than 80 percent of the vehicle was recyclable. (Picture from: AllCarIndex)

A complete overhaul of the car's electronic and electrical systems shed several pounds from the electronics' weight while providing driver controls, vehicle monitoring, diagnostic indicators, audio and video systems, and a telemetrics package. It's worth noting that there are no plans to produce any of the ESX series vehicles, as the Intrepid nameplate has been retired, and Dodge currently lacks immediate plans to manufacture a hybrid sedan.

The Dodge Intrepid ESX series represents a fascinating chapter in automotive history, showcasing the brand's commitment to pushing the boundaries of fuel efficiency and technology. While these innovations didn't lead to mass production, they serve as a testament to the relentless pursuit of efficiency and performance in the world of automobiles. Dodge's journey from the Intrepid ESX to its muscle car identity illustrates the diverse and ever-evolving landscape of the automotive industry. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | TOPSPEED | MOTORTREND | CARSTHATNEVERMADEITC | CARSTYLING.RU | OLDCONCEPTCARS | BELOWTHERADAR | ALLCARINDEX | WIKIPEDIA ]

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