ONE-OFF - Owning a dream sports car is a desire cherished by automotive enthusiasts worldwide, but the fulfillment of that dream takes on a whole new level of greatness when one can proudly say they built it with their own hands. This isn't an impossible feat, as evidenced by the success stories of privateer automakers like the Rox GT and Tomaso One, both crafted by skilled Swedish car builders.
Per Ajdén-built Sensor GTR based on Ulf Bolumlid design completed in 2018. (Picture from: RareComponentCars)
Among these talents is Ulf Bolumlid, a talented car builder and artist hailing from Sweden. While initially recognized for his skill in crafting custom guitars, Ulf transitioned to the world of car building in 1980, driven by his passion for bringing automotive dreams to life.
The Mania Spyder, the first production car of Ulf Bolumlid sold as a kit under his Falköping-based studio-Designs by Ulf. (Picture from: FiberClassic.org)
In 1992, Ulf achieved a significant milestone with the release of the Mania Spyder, the first production car sold as a kit under his Falköping-based studio-Designs by Ulf. After successfully selling around 50 kit cars, Ulf set his sights on a more ambitious project—the Sensor GTR, a coupe inspired by Le Mans prototypes, and early hypercars of the day like the Bugatti EB110, and McLaren F1.
Per Ajdén-built Sensor GTR featured with to unique door mechanisms akin to those on Koenigsegg cars. (Picture from: RareComponentCars)
The car, constructed on a triangulated steel spaceframe with independent suspension and carbon-fiber or fiberglass bodywork, aimed for a weight as low as 750 kilograms in its lightest form, accommodating motors from four to twelve cylinders with up to 1,000 horsepower.
Per
Ajdén-built Sensor GTR's interior with black-red trimmed seats,
complemented by a three-spoke racing steering wheel and two sleek
displays on the center console. (Picture from: RareComponentCars)
The Sensor GTR's drivetrain featured Ulf's vision of a V8 engine with a 4.5-liter displacement, delivering 450 horsepower and over 500 Nm of torque. Coupled with a Porsche 5-speed transmission, the car was equipped to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in under four seconds, reaching a top speed of around 190 mph.
Per Ajdén-built Sensor GTR's tubular chassis and 344 bhp Volvo engine at rear view. (Picture from: RareComponentCars)
Apart from the street version, plans included a Spartan track racer named the Superlight, priced at $150,000 in turn-key form. Unfortunately, the market didn't respond as anticipated, leading to the closure of Ulf Bolumlid's studio in 2005, leaving two full size models and three body shells – in other words, the prototype was never completed.
One of the two Ulf Bolumlid' design mock-ups for Sensor GTR positioned at three-quarter front view. (Picture from: RareComponentCars)
The Sensor GTR's story, however, found a revival in 2016 when Per Ajdén, a Swedish colleague, acquired an original body shell with the intent to bring the car to fruition. Conducting a 3D scan, Ajdén designed a CAD model for the chassis, drivetrain, and interior, subsequently laser-cutting and welding the tubular chassis.
One of the two Ulf Bolumlid' design mock-ups for Sensor GTR positioned at three-quarter rear view. (Picture from: RareComponentCars)
Per Ajdén along with his brother took the fabrication process in his own garage, from badges and trim to unique door mechanisms akin to those on Koenigsegg cars. Most car parts were either handmade or custom-made from OEM items. The suspension featured a double wishbone setup at the front, coil-overs at the rear, and Wilwood and Audi A4 components for the brakes, with a mid-mounted 344 bhp Volvo engine as the drivetrain.
Ulf Bolumlid (left) and the Ajdén brothers with their Sensor GTR creation in the background. (Picture from: RareComponentCars)
The completion of the Sensor GTR in 2018 stands as a remarkable tribute to Ulf Bolumlid's vision, brought to life through Per Ajdén's expertise and meticulous attention to detail. While Ulf eventually retired after contributing to Koenigsegg's early prototype vehicles, Ajdén continues his car-building journey, with his latest creation being a replica of the Ford RS2000 rally car. ✨Happy Holiday...⛄*** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | AJDEN.SE | RARECOMPONENTCARS | REJSA.NU | DRIVES.TODAY | FIBERCLASSIC.ORG ]
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The Legends - Lotus Cars, the renowned British automotive manufacturer established by Colin Chapman in 1948, has enjoyed enduring success, captivating automotive enthusiasts worldwide with a series of exceptional production models. Notably celebrated for crafting lightweight, highly maneuverable racing cars, Lotus has left an indelible mark on the automotive industry. One of Lotus Cars' iconic creations, following the likes of the Lotus Esprit, is the Lotus Elite.
The distinguished nameplate of Lotus Elite has adorned two production models and a concept vehicle, showcasing the brand's commitment to innovation. (Picture from: ConceptCarz)
This distinguished nameplate has adorned two production models and a concept vehicle, showcasing the brand's commitment to innovation. The first iteration graced the automotive scene from 1957 to 1963, while its successor, the second-generation model, continued its legacy from 1974 to 1982, and the concept ones unveiled in 2010.
1. Lotus Elite Type 14
The Lotus Elite Type 14 designed by Peter Kirwan-Taylor with input from Frank Costin, the Chief Aerodynamic Engineer for the de Havilland Aircraft Company, and debuted at the Earls Court Motor Show in London in October 1957.
The
Lotus Elite Type 14 (in pictured 1958 model with chassis 008) designed by Peter Kirwan-Taylor with input from
Frank Costin, and debuted at the Earls Court Motor Show in London in
October 1957. (Picture from: IconicAuctioneers)
Its revolutionary fiberglass monocoque construction, a departure from the traditional separate chassis and body components, marked a significant leap in automotive engineering.
The Lotus Elite Type 14's cabin boasted two cozy bucket seats, a three-spoke steering wheel, and simple dashboard arrangement. (Picture from: IconicAuctioneers)
Weighing in at a mere 504 kg, the two-seater coupe boasted a 74 cubic inch S4 'Coventry Climax' engine, generating 75 hp (55 kW). Its rear-wheel-drive system, coupled with a 4-speed manual gearbox, contributed to the Elite Type 14's remarkable performance.
The Lotus Elite Type 14 (in pictured 1958 model with chassis 008) boasted a 74 cubic inch S4 'Coventry Climax' engine, generating 75 hp (55 kW), and weighing of a mere 504 kg. (Picture from: IconicAuctioneers)
Notably, its aerodynamic prowess, with a drag coefficient of 0.29, facilitated an acceleration from 0-60 mph in just 9.7 seconds and a top speed of 116 mph (187 kph). Production commenced in December 1958, and over 1,000 units rolled off the assembly line during its production span until 1963.
2. Lotus Elite Type 75 & Type 83
A decade later, Lotus introduced the Elite S2 or Type 75 (later Elite S2.2 or Type 83), a four-passenger model designed by Oliver Winterbottom.
The Lotus Elite S2 or Type 75 (in pictured 1974 model) first unveiled to public in January 1975, as a four-passenger sports car featuring a shooting brake body style and a fiberglass bodyshell mounted on a steel backbone chassis. (Picture from: ConceptCarz)
Unveiled in January 1975, this iteration replaced the Lotus Elan Plus 2, featuring a shooting brake body style and a fiberglass bodyshell mounted on a steel backbone chassis.
The
Lotus Elite S2 or Type 75 model's interior adorned with fancy suede, boasts a 1970s instrument cluster, evoking a nostalgic charm reminiscent of classic appliances. (Picture from: AROnline)
Powered by a 4-valve, DOHC, four-cylinder Type 907 engine, the Elite achieved a top speed of 125 mph and accelerated from 0–60 mph in 8.1 seconds.
The
Lotus Elite S2.2 or Type 83 (in pictured 1980 model) first unveiled to public
in 1980, and powered by a larger 2,174 cc Lotus 912 engine and various enhancements. (Picture from: Pinterest)
The Type 75 transitioned to the Type 83 in 1980, incorporating a larger 2,174 cc Lotus 912 engine and various enhancements. Throughout its production from 1975 to 1982, Lotus crafted 2,535 units of these Elite models.
The
Lotus Elite S2.2 or Type 83 (in pictured 1982 model) fwas produced as a four seater, and was considerably larger than previous models Type 75. (Picture from: FastestLaps)
3. Lotus Elite Concept
The pinnacle of this lineage was marked by the unveiling of the Lotus Elite Concept at the 2010 Paris Motor Show, promising a grand tourer experience. Unfortunately, the project faced cancellation in July 2012 due to a new cost-effective business plan initiated by the takeover of Lotus' parent company, Proton, by DRB-Hicom.
The
proposed 2014 Elite at the 2010 Paris Motor Show, equipped with a
5.0-litre V8 engine sourced from Lexus, offering 592 hp (441 kW) and a
0–100 km/h time as low as 3.5 seconds, was regrettably left unrealized. (Picture from: Wikipedia)
The envisioned grand tourer, equipped with a 5.0-litre V8 engine sourced from Lexus, offering 592 hp (441 kW) and a 0–100 km/h time as low as 3.5 seconds, was regrettably left unrealized.
In conclusion, Lotus Cars' enduring legacy is epitomized by the iconic Lotus Elite, a symbol of lightweight elegance and automotive innovation. From the groundbreaking Type 14 to the envisioned grand tourer concept, Lotus has left an indelible mark on the world of high-performance vehicles.
ONE-OFF - Embarking on a journey to explore the realms of obscure supercars led us to the intriguing discovery of a Canadian gem that once stirred the excitement of enthusiasts on the ObscureSupercar status on the X/Twitter page. This piqued our curiosity, urging us to delve deeper into the details of this rare find.
The Shark S-1 is a single prototype ever brought to life, conceived from a dream, the three-year development journey done by Canadian engineer Rudi Huber. (Picture from: Motor24.pt)
In the vibrant landscape of super sports cars during the 80s and 90s, small companies emerged, passionately producing unique vehicles that dared to challenge the giants in the industry. The Shark S-1, however, falls into a category of its own – a category of exclusivity, with only a single prototype ever brought to life. Conceived from a dream, the three-year development journey done by Canadian engineer Rudi Huber saw the creation of a masterpiece that cost him over $400,000.
The Shark S-1's fiberglass bodywork featured with a rather wedge design, but with rounded shapes, posed challenges during production, requiring three attempts to achieve perfection on its tubular steel frame chassis. (Picture from: Motor24.pt)
Drawing inspiration from iconic predecessors like the Vector W8 and Cizeta V16, the Shark S-1 exudes a sense of practical exoticism. The project, culminated in 1996, boasts a fully bespoke body with scissor doors, capturing attention and standing as a testament to the audacity of smaller players in the supercar arena. This unique creation found its home, insured and registered in British Columbia, Canada.
Drawing inspiration from iconic predecessors like the Vector W8 and Cizeta V16, the Shark S-1 exudes a sense of practical exoticism. (Picture from: CollectorCarAds)
The Shark S-1's fiberglass bodywork featured with a rather wedge design, but with rounded shapes, posed challenges during production, requiring three attempts to achieve perfection on its tubular steel frame chassis. The interior, adorned with faux suede, boasts a custom 1980s instrument cluster, evoking a nostalgic charm reminiscent of classic appliances.
The Shark S-1 boasts a fully bespoke body with scissor doors, capturing attention and standing as a testament to the audacity of smaller players in the supercar arena. (Picture from: Motor24.pt)
Inside the Shark S-1, comfort takes precedence with an air conditioning system and a more recent addition of a reversing camera. The digital instrument panel, inspired by aviation aesthetics, showcases meticulous attention to detail. Safety features include ABS, ensuring a secure driving experience.
The Shark S-1's interior, adorned with faux suede, boasts a custom 1980s instrument cluster, evoking a nostalgic charm reminiscent of classic appliances. (Picture from: CollectorCarAds)
Modern driving conveniences adorn the Shark S-1, including power steering, mirrors, tilt steering, an AM/FM stereo with a 6-speaker system and CD player, keyless entry, tachometer, center console, overhead console, light entry system, bucket seats, leather interior, and tinted glass.
Powering the Shark S-1 is a rear-mounted GM 8.2-liter V8 drivetrain, offering 550 horses coupled with Turbo-Hydramatic TH400 automatic three-speed transmission. (Picture from: Motor24.pt)
Powering the Shark S-1 is a rear-mounted GM 8.2-liter V8 drivetrain, offering 550 horses. The Turbo-Hydramatic TH400 automatic three-speed transmission adds to its prowess, propelling the car from zero to sixty in a swift four seconds. Enormous Hoosier tires at the rear ensure optimal traction, complemented by adjustable and independent suspension, power steering, and ABS.
Propelled by its engine power, the Shark S-1 accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in a swift four seconds, reaching a top speed of 350 km/h. (Picture from: CollectorCarAds)
In 2021, the Shark S-1 graced the market for sale, its rarity attributed to infrequent use in recent years. As a typical supercar, it boasts low-slung discomfort, making it a challenging drive for owner Rudi Huber. At the time, the selling price hovered around $250,000 or approximately €210,000, reflecting the exclusivity and allure of this one-of-a-kind masterpiece.
Enormous
Hoosier tires at the rear ensure optimal traction, complemented by
adjustable and independent suspension, power steering, and ABS. (Picture from: Motor24.pt)
ONE-OFF - When it comes to motorcycle modification, enthusiasts often explore unconventional combinations to create unique and eye-catching rides. Imagine the fusion of a 2.5-liter V6 Alfa Romeo engine with a Kraft Tech hardtail frame. The outcome? An awe-inspiring motorcycle that not only boasts a powerhouse engine but also exudes a distinct bad-ass vibe.
Chris Barber ride on his motorcycle creation, the Crossbreed AlfaBeast.(Picture from: CrossbreedCycles)
Enter the Alfabeast, a masterpiece crafted by the skilled hands of Chris Barber from Crossbreed Cycles. Taking the 2.5 V6 engine with an impressive 156 hp output, Barber embarked on a journey to construct a motorcycle that defies norms. The challenge was to seamlessly integrate the substantial engine into the Kraftec frame without compromising the overall design and functionality.
The
Alfabeast pictured here is powered by Alfa Romeo’s late 1970’s
2.5-liter V6 engine that is said to churn out 156 horsepower.(Picture from: CrossbreedCycles)
The heart of the Alfabeast, the 156 hp Alfa engine, proudly takes center stage, flanked by six separate exhaust pipes arranged in pairs on both sides. A unique design choice that not only adds to the bike's aesthetics but also serves as a testament to the engineering prowess behind its creation. The air intake, boldly positioned on the fuel tank, further contributes to the bike's distinctive appearance. (All pictures taken from: MotorCrave)
Beyond its striking exterior, the Alfabeast incorporates essential features to ensure optimal performance. Water and oil radiators are strategically employed to keep the potent engine running cool under pressure. A Harley four-speed gearbox and kickstart mechanism add to the bike's vintage appeal, creating a harmonious blend of modern power and classic style.
The one-off bike was created by one Chris Barber who fitted Alfa’s V6 on a Kraftec frame. (Picture from: CrossbreedCycles)
To enhance its handling and stopping power, the Alfabeast borrows elements from the Kawasaki ZXR-750, utilizing forks and brakes from this renowned sportbike. The result is a motorcycle that not only captivates with its visual allure but promises an exhilarating riding experience, a testament to the meticulous craftsmanship invested in its creation.
The 2.5-liter V6 engine is hooked up to a 4-speed transmission from a Harley Davidson while the forks and braking system are sourced from a Kawasaki ZXR-750 superbike. (Picture from: CrossbreedCycles)
As we marvel at the images of this one-off motorcycle, it's evident that the Alfabeast is not merely a showpiece; it's a testament to the dedication and innovation within the world of motorcycle customization. Chris Barber's ingenuity has given birth to a machine that pushes boundaries, challenging traditional norms in both design and performance.
There are six individual exhaust pipes (three on each side) while the Weber carburetors breath through a set of pipes that stick out from the gas tank. (Picture from: Carscoops)
In the realm of motorcycle modification, the Alfabeast
stands as a symbol of what happens when creativity meets engineering
excellence. It's not just a bike; it's a bold statement, a fusion of
power and style that dares to be different. So, the next time you hear the roar of a 2.5-liter V6 Alfa Romeo engine on the streets, don't be surprised if it's the Alfabeast, turning heads and leaving an indelible mark on the world of custom motorcycles. ✨Happy Holiday...⛄
The video above is not about the motorbike discussed in this article; it is originally a video clip of a game-titled Beast Fists, and solely for illustration purposes and has no connection to
the Crossbreed Alfabeast custom motorbike.
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 [04062015] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CROSSBREED CYCLES | CARSCOOPS | MOTORCRAVE | KNEESLIDER | WIRED ]
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Auto JEWEL - In
the nostalgic era of the 1950s, the automotive world witnessed the
emergence of a remarkable gem aiming to dominate the European racing
circuits—the Hughes-Kircher Special. Crafted through the combined vision
and skills of Charles Hughes and Kurt Kircher, both American' World War
II veterans, this sports racing car embodied their shared ambition to outshine the European competition.
The Hughes-Kircher Special crafted in 1953 through the combined vision and skills of Charles Hughes and Kurt Kircher, and this sports racing car embodied their shared ambition to outshine the European competition. (Picture from: Silodrome)
Originating
from the post-war enthusiasm of American servicemen, inspired by
Europe's nimble roadsters, the Hughes-Kircher Special's genesis story
began with Hughes' purchase of a Jaguar XK120 from Kircher, sparking a
mutual passion for racing. Kircher drove behind his Allard J2X racer, and Hughes,
eager to race his XK120, united to realize their dream of designing a
unique racing machine.
The
Hughes-Kircher Special defined by sleek lines, deep creases, and ridged
sides with airflow channels, the body aimed at optimal engine
temperature management. (Picture from: Silodrome)
With
Kircher's automotive engineering prowess, honed at GM post-war, and
Hughes' physics background and well-equipped machine shop, the duo aimed
to rival automotive giants like Jaguar, Mercedes-Benz, and Ferrari.
Their design embraced cutting-edge elements—a lightweight chrome-moly
tube frame, Jaguar XK120's independent front suspension, De Dion rear
suspension, Halibrand differential, and a 3.4-liter DOHC Jaguar XK120
straight-6 engine coupled with a 4-speed manual transmission.
The
Hughes-Kircher Special's distinct aluminum body, handcrafted by Charlie Lyons, blended Italian and British roadster aesthetics. (Picture from: Silodrome)
The
car's distinct aluminum body, handcrafted by Charlie Lyons, blended
Italian and British roadster aesthetics. Its two-piece construction
facilitated maintenance, while the single passenger-side door mandated a
peculiar entry technique—folding into the leather bucket seat.
Noteworthy were the grille-integrated headlights, reminiscent of the
1952 Nash Healey by Pinin Farina.
The
Hughes-Kircher Special's two-piece construction facilitated
maintenance, while the single passenger-side door mandated a peculiar
entry technique—folding into the leather bucket seat. (Picture from: Silodrome)
Defined
by sleek lines, deep creases, and ridged sides with airflow channels,
the body aimed at optimal engine temperature management. While detailed
competition records of the Hughes-Kircher Special are scarce, Kircher
proudly recalled their victories, highlighting consistent top-tier
finishes.
As
the mid-1950s rolled in, European competitors raised the bar, dimming
the Hughes-Kircher Special's competitiveness. To revitalize its prowess,
a decision was made to install a more potent engine, eventually fitting
the SOHC straight-6 fuel injection from the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL
Gullwing snugly into the engine bay. Empowered
by this high-performance engine and a racing camshaft pushing power to
over 240 bhp, the Hughes-Kircher Special delivered outstanding speed and
agility, exceeding expectations for its time.
The
Hughes-Kircher Special eventually fitting the SOHC straight-6 fuel injection from the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing snugly into the engine bay. (Picture from: Silodrome)
Post-competition,
the car found itself in the hands of its designer, Charles Lyons,
before becoming a prized possession for Bugatti collector Carlton
Coolidge and later, the Blackhawk Museum. Its global journey included
appearances in New Zealand, Singapore, and Malaysia, securing an
invitation to the prestigious 2014 Amelia Island Concours.
Empowered by this high-performance engine and a racing camshaft pushing power to over 240 bhp, the Hughes-Kircher Special delivered outstanding speed and agility, exceeding expectations for its time. (Picture from: Silodrome)
After undergoing diverse engine configurations, including its original 300SL Gullwing unit, the Hughes-Kircher Special has recently undergone a cosmetic restoration by the Moore Automotive Archaeologists team, presenting itself in excellent condition.
This automotive masterpiece is estimated to fetch between $300,000 and $400,000, making it a highly sought-after acquisition for enthusiastic collectors and automotive aficionados participating in the Quail Lodge Auction 2019. Ultimately, the Hughes-Kircher Special found a new owner, selling for $304,200 inc. premium, as quoted from Cars.Bonham. ✨Happy Holiday...⛄*** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | SILODROME | CARS.BONHAM | MOTORTREND ]
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Rare ONES - Embark on a journey through the distinctive world of the Unipower GT, an exceptional sports car that emerged from the heart of England's automotive scene in the mid-1960s. Unveiled at the prestigious London Racing Car Show in January 1966, this one-of-a-kind creation bore the mark of Universal Power Drives Ltd., a truck manufacturer based in Perivale, Middlesex, England.
This compact sports car, displayed at the 2022 Goodwood Festival of Speed, proudly bore the mark of Universal Power Drives Ltd. (Picture from: UltimateCarPage)
The Unipower GT was designed by Ernest Unger and Val Dare-Byrne, featured with a strong but lightweight fiberglass bodyshell. This British compact sportscar continued its journey under the guidance of UWF Automotive in London until the production curtain fell in 1975. Within this timeframe, a mere 75 units, including 15 meticulously crafted by UWF, rolled off the production line, etching a lasting imprint on the canvas of automotive history.
The Unipower GT was designed by Ernest Unger and Val Dare-Byrne, featured with a strong but lightweight fiberglass bodyshell on the framework of BMC Mini's mechanical components. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)
Constructed on the framework of BMC Mini's mechanical components, the Unipower GT proudly features a transverse engine and gearbox configuration nestled in a mid-engine layout. Its chassis, a sturdy spaceframe intricately bonded to a fiberglass body, embodies a perfect blend of lightweight agility and robust durability.
The snug cabin provides comfortable seating, showcasing a three-spoke racing steering wheel and a dashboard adorned with diverse gauges, knobs, and buttons. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)
In the relentless pursuit of racing perfection, the Unipower GT underscores the critical role of weight in influencing acceleration, braking, and cornering. It serves as a living testament to the perpetual engineering quest for the delicate balance between shedding weight and preserving chassis rigidity in the annals of motor racing history.
The Unipower GT proudly features a transverse engine and gearbox configuration nestled in a mid-engine layout. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)
Enhanced with independent wishbone suspension, the Unipower GT harmonizes a lightweight frame, a low center of gravity, and an aerodynamic drag coefficient, courtesy of its mere 40.5 inches (1,029 mm) height above the ground. This meticulously crafted configuration ensures that the Unipower GT delivers stellar performance paired with exceptional handling characteristics.
Enhanced with independent wishbone suspension, the Unipower GT harmonizes a lightweight frame, a low center of gravity, and an aerodynamic drag coefficient. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)
Underneath its hood, enthusiasts can choose between a 998 cc Mini-Cooper engine or the robust 1,275 cc Cooper 'S' engine. The latter, a powerhouse, reportedly achieves a swift 0-60 mph in a mere 8 seconds, reaching a top speed of 120 mph (193 km/h). Conversely, the 'standard' version, equipped with a 998 cc engine, accomplishes a 0-60 mph sprint in 11.8 seconds, with a maximum speed of 95 mph or 153 km/h.
While the vision of an expanded Unipower version remained on the drawing board, fate intervened with a change in ownership, leading to AC Cars taking the reins in 1977. Nevertheless, the Unipower GT proudly stands as a symbol of innovation, performance, and a distinctive chapter in the vibrant tapestry of automotive history. ✨Happy Holiday...⛄*** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | BELOWTHERADAR | ULTIMATECARPAGE | WIKIPEDIA ]
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