Forgotten GEMS - In the world of car design, the 1960s and 1970s were a period of bold experimentation and creative freedom. During this time, automakers explored unique collaborations, leading to vehicles that pushed the boundaries of what was considered conventional. One such collaboration was between Fiat and the renowned design house Zagato, resulting in the Fiat 132 Aster. This car, although not widely produced, remains a fascinating example of design and engineering, merging the practicality of Fiat with the artistic flair of Zagato.
These two Fiat 132 Aster prototypes crafted by the talent and craftsmanship of Carrozzeria Zagato, a Milan-based coachbuilder famous for its custom designs. (Picture from: Story-Cars)
The roots of the Fiat 132 Aster lie in the talent and craftsmanship of Carrozzeria Zagato, a Milan-based coachbuilder famous for its custom designs. In an era when sleekness and individuality were highly sought after, Zagato’s approach to car design was nothing short of revolutionary. They had already made their mark on models for Lancia and Alfa Romeo, and the Fiat 132 Aster was another attempt to reshape automotive style.
The Fiat 132 Aster designed by Giuseppe Mittino, and made debut in 1972, showcased at the Turin Auto Salon. (Picture from: Story-Cars)
Designed by Giuseppe Mittino, the Fiat 132 Aster first made its appearance in 1972, showcased at the Turin Auto Salon. This green model quickly caught the attention of car enthusiasts for its unconventional looks. A year later, an orange version of the Aster was unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show, further cementing its reputation as an eye-catching, avant-garde creation. Although both cars were built on the same platform, each came with its own unique details, reflecting Zagato’s dedication to bespoke craftsmanship.
The sleek, lightweight aluminum body gave the Fiat 132 Aster (in pictured the 1st prototype) a more futuristic look, aligning with the forward-thinking design principles that Zagato was known for. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)
What truly set the Fiat 132 Aster apart was its exterior. Unlike many cars of the time, which relied heavily on steel, the Aster’s body was crafted from aluminum. This choice of material was not only innovative but also aimed at improving both the car’s performance and aesthetics. The sleek, lightweight aluminum body gave the Aster a more futuristic look, aligning with the forward-thinking design principles that Zagato was known for.
This choice of material was not only innovative but also aimed at improving both the Fiat 132 Aster’s performance and aesthetics. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)
However, the use of aluminum also made production more expensive, which contributed to the car’s limited numbers. Underneath its distinctive bodywork, the Fiat 132 Asterwas built with the same mechanical components asthe regular Fiat 132. It came equipped with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, a reliable choice that provided solid performance.
The Fiat 132 Aster Zagati (in pictured the 1st prototype) provided enough room for two and made out of various fabrics, dominating is the dark green Alcantara. (Picture from: Zwischengas)
While the mechanical aspects were not groundbreaking, they allowed the Aster to deliver a driving experience that was dependable, if not entirely thrilling. The focus of this car was always more on its design than its power. Despite its eye-catching looks, the Fiat 132 Aster did not receive universal praise at the time.
The Fiat 132 Aster Zagato (in pictured the 2nd prototype) came equipped with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, a reliable choice that provided solid performance. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)
Some critics felt that its design resembled the popular styling of Japanese cars from that period, which detracted from its intended originality. The high cost of production, due to the use of aluminum, further prevented the Aster from entering mass production. As a result, only two prototypes were ever built, making it a rare piece of automotive history.
The high cost of production, due to the use of aluminum, further prevented the Fiat 132 Aster Zagato (in pictured the 2nd prototype) from entering mass production. (Picture from: ArchivioPrototipi.it)
Today, the Fiat 132 Aster stands as a reminder of a time when automakers were willing to take risks in design and materials. Though it never reached the production line, its bold design choices and the collaboration between Fiat and Zagato make it an interesting chapter in the evolution of automotive design. | NVOIXOfyT0Q |
Each detail of the car, from its aluminum body to its unique appearance, reflects the spirit of experimentation that defined the 1970s. The Fiat 132 Aster may not have changed the car industry, but it remains a symbol of the creative potential that existed when art and engineering came together. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CARROZZIERI-ITALIANI | STORY-CARS | ARCHIVIOPROTOTIPI.IT | ZWISCHENGAS ]
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Forgotten ONES - In the world of automotive history, certain cars manage to capture our attention not just because of their performance, but because of the stories behind their creation. One such car is the Soviet-era 'Laura'. While Soviet automobiles were mostly known for their practical, sometimes uninspiring and boring designs, the Laura broke away from the norm, offering a glimpse into what might have been if innovation had taken center stage in Russia’s automotive industry. This story is a tale of passion, ambition, and a dream to create something that could stand alongside global competitors.
The first iteration of the Laura prototype, a sports car that defied the limitations of Soviet engineering and aimed for something exceptional, was created by Dmitry Parfenov and Gennady Hainov in 1985. (Picture from: RussiaBeyond)
Unique ONES - The Italian coachbuilder Bertone has long been recognized for pushing the limits of automotive design, not only with sleek sports cars but also with vehicles that step outside the conventional boundaries, such as minivans. Bertone's legacy includes the unforgettable 1985 Lamborghini Genesis, a groundbreaking study in what a minivan could be. Almost two decades later, Bertone revisited this idea, but this time for an American company—Cadillac.
The Cadillac Villa was a bold minivan concept designed and built by Bertone that broke away from traditional design norms. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)
In 2005, at the prestigious Geneva Motor Show, Bertone unveiled the Cadillac Villa, a bold concept that broke away from traditional design norms. Built on the SRX platform, the Villa immediately captured attention with its distinctive design, which was far removed from the ordinary. Although it is road legal, as a show model the Villa has only a small engine mated to a single-speed gearbox. It is not very fast so it is suitable for mobility in urban areas.
The Cadillac Villa built on the SRX platform, and immediately captured attention with its distinctive design when showcased for the first time at the prestigious Geneva Motor Show 2005. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)
The doors, as well as the roof, were crafted entirely from plexiglass, giving the vehicle a futuristic and innovative aesthetic. Unlike conventional car doors, the Villa’s front doors and roof sections opened upwards towards the front, while the rear doors swung upwards towards the back. This unique opening mechanism created an almost theatrical entry experience that was both bold and futuristic.
The
Cadillac Villa has a unique features such the doors, as well as the
roof, were crafted entirely from plexiglass, giving the vehicle a
futuristic and innovative aesthetic. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)
Stepping inside the Villa was equally remarkable. Bertone had crafted an interior that embodied luxury and extravagance, leaving no doubt that this was not just a functional vehicle but a statement in automotive design. Despite the lavish interior and the awe-inspiring features, the Villa was never meant to enter mass production. It remained a concept vehicle, serving as a canvas for Bertone’s creative expression and a showcase of what could be possible when the boundaries of design were pushed.
The Cadillac Villa’s front doors and roof sections opened upwards towards the front, while the rear doors swung upwards towards the back.. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)
For Bertone, the Cadillac Villa represented more than just a vehicle; it was a symbol of the potential to challenge and transform the status quo. The design philosophy behind the Villa was driven by a desire to break free from the homogeneous designs that dominated the automotive world at the time. It aimed to redefine the emotional connection between people and the vehicles they drove. The Villa was not about fitting into the existing mold, but rather about reshaping it, questioning what a car could be and how it could make drivers and passengers feel.
The Cadillac Villa has an interior that embodied luxury and extravagance, leaving no doubt that this was not just a functional vehicle but a statement in automotive design. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)
A standout feature of the Cadillac Villa was its striking "crystal bubble" doors, crafted from laminated glass with a triple curvature that created a mesmerizing visual effect. These doors did more than just allow entry into the car; they transformed the very concept of vehicle design, emphasizing transparency and creating a fluid relationship between the car’s interior and exterior. This design choice was a bold step away from traditional automotive forms, highlighting Bertone’s innovative approach.
The Cadillac Villa featured a minimalist interior inspired by contemporary architecture, with advanced onboard systems like modern LCD displays replacing the conventional dashboard and cameras substituting rearview mirrors. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)
The exterior of the Villa was complemented by a minimalist interior inspired by contemporary architecture. This minimalist ethos wasn't about stripping away luxury, but about redefining it. In the Villa, luxury was found not in opulence but in the simplicity of sleek lines and functional design. Every element inside the vehicle was carefully considered to enhance well-being, making the experience inside the Villa more about comfort and innovation than mere speed.
The Cadillac Villa's cutting-edge design, combined with its avant-garde aesthetics, challenged conventional ideas and sparked conversations about the future of mobility. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)
Bertone’s vision for the future extended beyond the physical aspects of the car. It recognized the increasing role of technology in vehicles, and the Villa reflected this with advanced onboard systems. Traditional dashboards were replaced by modern LCD displays, and rearview mirrors were discarded in favor of cameras, further pushing the Villa into the realm of futuristic automotive design. These features enabled passengers to stay connected to the world outside the car, whether for work or entertainment, seamlessly blending travel with the digital age. | CrPmYaJkzIk |
The Cadillac Villa stood as a bold and visionary interpretation of what the future of automotive design could look like. It wasn’t just a car; it was a statement about where luxury, technology, and innovation could take us. The Villa’s cutting-edge design, combined with its avant-garde aesthetics, challenged conventional ideas and sparked conversations about the future of mobility. While it never reached the production line, its influence as a forward-thinking concept continues to inspire, showing that the boundaries of automotive design are meant to be explored, questioned, and, most importantly, expanded. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CARROZZIERI-ITALIANI | AUTOEXPRESS | CARBODYDESIGN | WIKIPEDIA ]
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⚠️Hidden ONES📢 - In the world of automotive innovation, few names evoke the sense of passion and creativity as strongly as Zoragy Studio. Established in Ljig, Serbia, Zoragy Studio has been pushing the boundaries of automotive design and engineering since its informal inception in 1982. The visionaries behind this pioneering company are Zoran Radivojević, a graduate civil engineer, and Ivan Obradović, a graduate industrial design engineer. Together, they have embarked on a journey that has seen Zoragy evolve from humble beginnings into a name synonymous with cutting-edge supercars.
This striking light blue Zoragy Roadster was featured in the music video 'Playa's Only' from R. Kelly's 2005 album, Reloaded. (Picture from: Depo.ba)
Zoran's interest in automotive design began during his student years when he started working on prototype vehicles fueled by nothing more than love for the craft and the limited funds of a student’s budget. His first major project, completed in 1985, was a Buggy body prototype. This early endeavor laid the groundwork for what would become a lifelong pursuit of automotive excellence. Zoragy Studio’s evolution from these initial projects to the present day is a testament to the dedication and vision of its founders.
The international debut of the first Zoragy Roadster prototype, built on the turbocharged Toyota MR-2, took place at the 2005 Detroit Motor Show. (Picture from: Zoragy)
One of the most significant milestones in Zoragy’s history occurred in 2005 when the studio unveiled its first prototype at the Detroit Motor Show. This two-seater, based on the turbocharged Toyota MR-2, was the result of two years of painstaking work by Zoran and his colleagues.
The cabin of the first Zoragy Roadster prototype is equipped with advanced features and a luxurious interior wrapped in tan and blue genuine leather.(Picture from: Zoragy)
The vehicle's design was so well-received that it earned Zoragy Studio first place in a competition for hand-made cars, marking the studio’s entry into the global automotive scene. The success of this project also led to the addition of Ivan Obradović to the Zoragy team, further strengthening the studio’s design capabilities.
The 2007 Zoragy B092 Coupe, designed for the American market, was based on the Chevrolet Camaro and powered by a 400 hp engine. (Picture from: Zoragy)
Zoragy’s reputation continued to grow, particularly after one of its vehicles was featured in a music video by the American artist R. Kelly back in 2005. The car, a striking light blue roadster, appeared alongside luxury brands such as Mercedes, Ferrari, and Rolls-Royce, yet it stood out for its unique design and presence. This appearance in the video not only brought international attention to Zoragy but also sparked widespread discussions among car enthusiasts, further cementing the studio’s reputation as a creator of extraordinary vehicles.
The 2007 Zoragy B092 Coupe designed for the local Serbian market, was based on the Toyota Supra, with engines ranging from 240 to 330 hp. (Picture from: Zoragy)
Following this success, Zoragy Studio continued to produce innovative vehicles, including a coupe version for the American market in 2007. This model was based on the Chevrolet Camaro and was powered by a 400 hp engine. For the Serbian market, the studio offered versions based on the Toyota Supra, with engines ranging from 240 to 330 hp. Zoragy’s use of composite materials, glass, and plastic in their construction demonstrated the studio’s commitment to lightweight, durable designs that performed at the highest levels.
Today, Zoragy Studio is focused on its latest ambitious project: the Zoragy E+. This 2-seater hybrid supercar is built on the Honda NSX platform and combines the power of a gasoline V6 engine with the efficiency of an electric motor. The Zoragy E+ is a reflection of the studio’s ongoing commitment to innovation,
blending traditional automotive engineering with modern hybrid technology. The car’s impressive performance, including an acceleration time from 0 to 100 km/h in just 2.3 seconds, positions it as a formidable contender in the supercar market.
The 2011 Zoragy E+ Concept is a 2-seater hybrid supercar built on the Honda
NSX platform, combining a gasoline V6 engine with an electric motor for enhanced efficiency. (Picture from: Zoragy)
Despite the challenges faced along the way, including significant financial constraints, Zoragy Studio remains a beacon of creativity and innovation in the automotive world. The founders, Zoran and Ivan, continue to seek investment to bring their latest creations to life, demonstrating their unwavering dedication to their craft. Zoragy’s journey from a small, informal workshop to an internationally recognized name is a story of perseverance, talent, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. | |
As Zoragy Studio moves forward, the automotive world eagerly awaits the next chapter in its remarkable story. The legacy of Zoragy is one of innovation and passion, a legacy that will undoubtedly continue to inspire and excite for many years to come. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | ZORAGY IN FACEBOOK | DEPO.BA | AUTO-MAGAZIN | DANUBIUS.FORUMSR ]
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Forgotten Wedge-Styled Car - In the late 1960s, a bold new trend emerged in the automotive world with the introduction of wedge-shaped car designs. These designs, marked by sharp angles, streamlined silhouettes, and futuristic aesthetics, represented a shift in the way cars looked and performed. The wedge shape wasn’t just a style choice; it symbolized speed, innovation, and a forward-thinking mindset that captured the imagination of designers and car enthusiasts alike. This daring approach to car design led to the creation of some iconic models, each showcasing unique interpretations of the wedge form.
The Alfa Romeo Zeta 6 by Zagato was a sleek two-seater coupe designed by Giuseppe Mittino, Zagato’s chief designer, known as the AZ6 Sperimentale. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)
The Alfa Romeo Zeta 6 by Zagato featured aluminum bodywork built on the chassis of the Alfa Romeo GTV6.(Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)
However, this era wasn’t solely dominated by widely recognized brands or models. Behind the scenes, brands like Alfa Romeo and renowned coachbuilders were also experimenting with their own interpretations of the wedge shape. Alfa Romeo, known for its high-performance, sporty cars, occasionally faced challenges in maintaining its focus on sports cars due to shifting priorities within the company and the Fiat group.
The Alfa Romeo Zeta Sei by Zagato featured with Zagato's distinctive “double bubble” roof design. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)
But fans and independent coachbuilders wanted to keep the brand's sporting heritage alive. This passion for Alfa Romeo’s racing DNA led to the appearance of unique, wedge-shaped Alfa models, such as the Alfa Romeo Zeta 6 (Sei) by Zagato, a car that remains largely unknown outside dedicated car enthusiast circles.
The Alfa Romeo Zeta 6 by Zagato was powered by a robust 2.5-liter V6 engine, providing it with impressive performance and a thrilling driving experience.(Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)
The Zeta 6 story began with a 1979 proposal by Giuseppe Mittino, Zagato’s chief designer. He approached Alfa Romeo with sketches of a sleek two-seater coupe that he called the AZ6 Sperimentale. Alfa Romeo, intrigued by the design, approved the production of two prototypes while also commissioning Bertone to create a counter-design, which became the Bertone Delfino. The Delfino, presented alongside the Zeta 6 at the 1983 Geneva Motor Show, was an angular, wedge-inspired concept that visually anticipated the Subaru SVX.
The Alfa Romeo Zeta 6 by Zagato featured typical short overhangs and echoed elements of the Porsche 928, showcasing a flowing window line that provided it with an unmistakable presence.(Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)
Yet, it was clear that the Zeta 6 was intended to be something more. Zagato took the Alfa Romeo GTV6 as the basis for the Zeta 6, outfitting it with a 2.5-liter V6 engine and a striking body that incorporated Zagato’s signature “double bubble” roof design. The Zeta 6 featured innovative details like rotating round door handles reminiscent of vintage telephone dials and a rear seating area that made it a 2+2 coupe, balancing style with a touch of practicality. The silhouette of the Zeta 6 also evoked elements of the Porsche 928, with a flowing window line that gave it an unmistakable presence.
The Alfa Romeo Zeta 6 by Zagato is complemented by a compact cockpit featuring an elegant 2+2 seat configuration.(Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)
Alfa Romeo briefly considered producing the Zeta 6 in limited numbers. However, financial constraints forced the company to refocus its resources on higher-priority projects, such as the compact Arna developed in collaboration with Nissan. While Alfa ultimately canceled the Zeta 6 project, Zagato sought ways to produce it independently but faced financial limitations as well. Despite this setback, Zagato continued to thrive, re-establishing itself as a distinguished coachbuilder and taking on projects with brands like Maserati, Aston Martin, and Nissan.
One of the two Alfa Romeo Zeta 6 models found its way into a private collection in London and was later acquired by Italian collector Corrado Lopresto.(Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)
Out of the two Zeta 6 prototypes built, one was a brown model that became part of the Alfa Romeo Museum collection, preserving a piece of this unique chapter in automotive history. The second, a green coupe, found its way into a private collection in London and was later acquired by Italian collector Corrado Lopresto. Rumor has it that an unfinished third body exists in the Netherlands, although its whereabouts remain a mystery among car enthusiasts.
The Zeta 6, like the iconic wedge-shaped models that came before it, represents a piece of automotive history characterized by daring design and innovative thinking. From the Alfa Romeo Carabo to the Maserati Boomerang, each of these models contributed to an era when car design was as much about expression and vision as it was about engineering. The Zeta 6 stands as a tribute to Alfa Romeo’s spirit of performance and Zagato’s legacy of bespoke craftsmanship. Even today, it continues to captivate collectors and enthusiasts, embodying an era that celebrated creativity, individuality, and the endless pursuit of speed and style. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | SECRET-CLASSIC |BELOWTHERADAR |CARROZZIERI-ITALIANI | CARDESIGNNEWS | JALPONIK ]
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Unique ONES - When we talk about iconic supercars, the Lamborghini Diablo is a name that always stands out. Manufactured between 1990 and 2001, this car marked a turning point in the world of mid-engined sports cars. Its aggressive design and performance left a lasting impression on automotive enthusiasts, breaking the 200 mph barrier and producing a total of 2,884 units. The Diablo paved the way for what would later become the Lamborghini Murciélago, cementing its place in the annals of automotive history.
The Lamborghini Diablo Evolution GTR Roadster by Garage R. Affolter is the
last variant built by the Swiss company in the late
1990s, based on the Diablo SV Roadster. (Picture from: Carswp)
The Lamborghini Diablo Evolution GTR by Garage R. Affolter is the highest-performance variant ever built by the Swiss company in the late 1990s, based on the Diablo SV. (Picture from: LamboCars)
Another notable customization comes from the Swiss coachbuilder Garage R. Affolter of Roland Affolter, Their work on the Diablo took the car's already stylish appearance to a whole new level, adding both aesthetic and performance enhancements. With Affolter’s modifications, the Diablo became not just a high-performance car, but also a luxury piece of automotive art that fetched higher prices than the standard versions. Depending on the customer’s budget and desires, Garage R. Affolter could offer a range of customizations to suit different tastes.
The
Lamborghini Diablo Evolution GTR by Garage R. Affolter is the
highest-performance variant ever built by the Swiss company in the late
1990s, based on the Diablo SV. (Picture from: KldConcept)
Garage R. Affolter’s specializations included bold body kits and mechanical upgrades that could push the Diablo’s power to an impressive 620 bhp. However, for those who felt the standard 492 bhp was already more than enough, Affolter also offered body kits without touching the engine. These kits guaranteed that the Diablo would turn heads wherever it went. But for those wanting the ultimate upgrade, Affolter could install twin or even quadruple turbochargers, boosting the power to 620 horses. This upgrade enabled the Diablo to sprint from 0 to 62 mph in just 4.1 seconds and reach a top speed of 203 mph.
The Lamborghini Diablo Evolution GT1 by Garage R. Affolter was designed for those who wanted to stand out even more, with its over-the-top bodywork featuring countless scoops, slats, and spoilers. (Picture from: BelowTheRadar)
One of Affolter's standout offerings was the Diablo Evolution, an entry-level model that featured carbon-fiber panels and more aggressive styling lines than the standard version. This package was available for both the Coupé and the Roadster. For those wanting something even more unique, there was the Miami edition, which featured a tinted glass roof for the Coupé and an extra-menacing look with black wheels, headlamp covers, and other dark details. With 620 bhp as standard, the Miami edition ensured that the Diablo would be a true showstopper.
The Lamborghini Diablo Evolution GT1 by Garage R. Affolter was fitted with four exhausts exiting from the center of the rear panel, and the car’s extra-wide wings included cooling scoops to keep the brakes from overheating. (Picture from: BelowTheRadar)
For those who wanted something even more extreme, Garage R. Affolter offered the Diablo Evolution GT1. This version was designed for those who wanted to stand out even more, with its over-the-top bodywork featuring countless scoops, slats, and spoilers. The GT1 was fitted with four exhausts exiting from the center of the rear panel, and the car’s extra-wide wings included cooling scoops to keep the brakes from overheating. The car was equipped with massive 10.5-inch front wheels and 13.5-inch rear wheels to ensure that all of its power could be transferred to the road.
The Lamborghini Diablo Evolution by Garage R. Affolter was an entry-level model that featured carbon-fiber panels and more aggressive styling lines than the standard version. (Picture from: Wikipedia)
The GT1 was not just about looks—it was built for performance. With four turbochargers pushing the engine to 620 bhp, the GT1 could accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in just 3.5 seconds, and it boasted a top speed of 216 mph. To handle such speeds, the car was fitted with 380 mm ventilated discs and four-pot calipers all around, ensuring that it could stop as impressively as it could go.
The Lamborghini Diablo Evolution by Garage R. Affolter seen at the 2023 Greenwich Concours d'Elegance. (Picture from: Wikipedia)
Affolter’s custom Diablos began making their mark as early as 1991, starting with the first Evolution model. Over the next few years, several more modified Diablos followed, including one sold to Rene Leimer, a former co-owner of Lamborghini. In the late 1990s, Affolter introduced a small series of GTR models based on the Diablo SV, with the final car being completed in 1999. This last edition, based on a Diablo VT Roadster, was a slightly more restrained version of the earlier, more outrageous designs but still carried the unmistakable touch of Garage R. Affolter.
The Lamborghini Diablo remains a symbol of high-performance automotive excellence, and its legacy lives on through the custom creations that continue to push the boundaries of design and performance. For those lucky enough to own one, the Diablo represents more than just a car—it’s a piece of art on wheels, constantly evolving and redefined by the hands of passionate car builders like Garage R. Affolter. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | GARAGERAFFOLTER | BELOWTHERADAR | LAMBOCARS ]
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