By Theodore Opara
Ford Motor Company has declared that its commitment to the Nigerian auto market is stronger than ever, just as it announced a 33 per cent sales increase in Nigeria, last week. Eugene Prinsloo, Ford Motors Senior Manager, Sub-Sahara Africa, (SSA), who led other senior Ford management team to Nigeria, said at a press parley at the Federal Palace Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos that Nigeria is a very significant market in Ford’s sub-Sahara Africa region and accounts for a solid chunk of its regional sales.
According to him, sales in Nigeria grew more than 40% from 2010 to 2011 and 8 percent from 2011 to 2012 despite overall challenges in the Nigerian auto industry.
Continuing he said, “So far, we have recorded continued growth in our performance with a 33 percent increase in sales. Sales are up by 44 percent through July compared with the same month in the previous year’s total sales through July were 2,156 units compare to1,617 units sold during the same period in 2012.”
Prinsloo further explained that remarkable growth in sales was led by the high demand for the Ford Ranger pickup, Explorer SUV, Edge Crossover, Focus and Fusion sedans.
“These vehicles sales account for 78 percent of overall sales” he said, adding that their continued growth and stability in sales can be attributed to their strong dealers’ network.
Promising that they will continue to strengthen their dealers’ parts and service department, Mr. Prinsloo said that they were still seeing great results from the full line of vehicle choices available in their new product lineup.
According to him, part of their efforts to give customers the best service in Nigeria was when in 2012, Ford launched its extended warranty programme tagged the ‘Extended Service Programme, ESP’. The first of its kind, the ESP is offering customers free after-sales service of up to four years or 120,000km, whichever comes first through both of Ford’s dealer. He disclosed that currently, Ford operates 30 outlets including showrooms and service centres throughout Nigeria through its dealers, Briscoe-Ford Motors and Coscharis Motors.”
According to him, “In the near future, Ford would be launching and establishing the EcoSport as a new, credible small urban SUV focusing on design, smart technologies and affordability. The EcoSport is a nameplate that exemplifies the DNA of Ford’s global vehicles and is a step forward in our One Ford strategy of producing best-in-class vehicles that take the lead in quality, technology, safety, fuel efficiency and design.”
Our vision is to establish EcoSport as the most desirable small SUV in its segment.” “We expect to see continued growth in the market as we move forward with plans to launch new products in key market segments, increase customer satisfaction with increased service outlets and parts availability, strengthen our connections and communications with consumers, increase our community involvement and overall presence in the market.”
Showing posts with label Motoring. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Motoring. Show all posts
Monday, 2 September 2013
BKG plans big for 15th Abuja motor show
The organiser of Abuja annual motor show, BKG Exhibitions has said that it is planning big for this year’s Abuja Motor Show, slated to hold from October 22 to 30, 2013, at the Eagle Square.
Mr. Ifeanyi Agwu, Managing Director of the BKG Exhibitions hinted that this year event is the 15th edition and a landmark in the history of the show.
“If we remember how we started and where we are today, you will agree with me that we have come a very long way in making the show big event that has become a household name in Nigeria. He recalled how only few brands showed up at the first edition but noted that could not deter them from carrying on with subsequent edition this until Landmark edition.
According to him, part of the highlights of this year’s event include a Transport Summit to discuss how to move the transportation industry forward, an award night for participants and players who have distinguished themselves in the industry and a fashion show and cultural events to liven the event.
The Managing Director also noted that they were looking forward to having the Vice President of Nigeria, Namadi Sambo to declare open the fair, given the fact that the fair has come to stay and has become recgonised internationally. For business too, we are not leaving anything to chance. We have started making contacts with both the private the corporate visitors to ensure a large turnout during the fair.
The BKG boss further stated that the company will soon announce some changes about the fair.
“We will soon announce a total strategy for the event. We want it to become a major event in Africa whereby the auto companies will come and support their representatives in Nigeria,” he said.
Mr. Ifeanyi Agwu, Managing Director of the BKG Exhibitions hinted that this year event is the 15th edition and a landmark in the history of the show.
“If we remember how we started and where we are today, you will agree with me that we have come a very long way in making the show big event that has become a household name in Nigeria. He recalled how only few brands showed up at the first edition but noted that could not deter them from carrying on with subsequent edition this until Landmark edition.
According to him, part of the highlights of this year’s event include a Transport Summit to discuss how to move the transportation industry forward, an award night for participants and players who have distinguished themselves in the industry and a fashion show and cultural events to liven the event.
The Managing Director also noted that they were looking forward to having the Vice President of Nigeria, Namadi Sambo to declare open the fair, given the fact that the fair has come to stay and has become recgonised internationally. For business too, we are not leaving anything to chance. We have started making contacts with both the private the corporate visitors to ensure a large turnout during the fair.
The BKG boss further stated that the company will soon announce some changes about the fair.
“We will soon announce a total strategy for the event. We want it to become a major event in Africa whereby the auto companies will come and support their representatives in Nigeria,” he said.
Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, van with luxury car characteristics
Sprinter, this name ordinarily should have been given to a fast road going car but Mercedes-Benz has chosen to give it to a van. Certainly, Mercedes Benz must have its reason for the name.
The Sprinter comes in different configurations including passenger bus, pick-up, and panel vans etc. The new Sprinter which Weststar Associates, Mercedes-Benz representatives in Nigeria recently launched into the market, offers a wide range of models and with over 600 items of optional equipment, the largest number of variants in its class, meets the most diverse and specific requirements.
According to the German auto maker, the Sprinter is a van that handles like a passenger car. With the optional 7G-TRONIC 7-speed automatic transmission, the new Sprinter is the first and only van in its class to offer the smooth running characteristics and ride comfort of a passenger car.
The innovative 7G-TRONIC PLUS technology increases the shifting efficiency of the transmission and so contributes to its low fuel consumption. This must have informed why the van has remained a market leader since its launch in the international market.
More than 2.2 million units are on the road currently and its outstanding position has been confirmed by the numerous awards it has garnered since its first introduction in 2005.
The Sprinter is more than a vehicle and can always be relied on. It is known above all for its outstanding operational reliability which gives users the freedom to concentrate fully on business activities. It offers the best in terms of reliability, quality, safety, flexibility, economy, sustainability and service. In Nigeria, the Sprinter’s outstanding qualities are backed up with a two-year warranty for commercial vehicles. For all new models ex factory of the Sprinter, there is twelve-year rust-though warranty as well as a comprehensive two-year commercial vehicle warranty. This two-year warranty holds good for mileage of up to 200,000 km and is also granted for commercial use.
With fuel consumption of 7.0 litre 100km, the 7G-TRONIC 7-Speed automatic transmission, a wide range of equipment options as well as new safety packages and BLUE EFFICIENCY package, the new Sprinter is no doubt ahead of its time.
The new Sprinter with its numerous attributes, has become the yardstick for measuring a good van as it can be adapted into many applications.
Spacious and ergonomic, innovative and superior, Sprinters interior design meets th most exacting standards of functionality, quality and comfort.
The new generation telematics, the optional multi function steering wheel with chrome inserts, the new design shift/slector lever and new ‘Tunja’ standard upholstery are complemented by many other interior appointments and equipment items which increase driving comfort and enhance the overall efficiency of your working environment.
The Sprinter is available in diesel and petrol engine versions. The petrol engines include the M271E 18ML which churns out 115kw (156hp) and M272 E35 which delivers 190kw (258hp).
The Sprinter comes in different configurations including passenger bus, pick-up, and panel vans etc. The new Sprinter which Weststar Associates, Mercedes-Benz representatives in Nigeria recently launched into the market, offers a wide range of models and with over 600 items of optional equipment, the largest number of variants in its class, meets the most diverse and specific requirements.
According to the German auto maker, the Sprinter is a van that handles like a passenger car. With the optional 7G-TRONIC 7-speed automatic transmission, the new Sprinter is the first and only van in its class to offer the smooth running characteristics and ride comfort of a passenger car.
The innovative 7G-TRONIC PLUS technology increases the shifting efficiency of the transmission and so contributes to its low fuel consumption. This must have informed why the van has remained a market leader since its launch in the international market.
More than 2.2 million units are on the road currently and its outstanding position has been confirmed by the numerous awards it has garnered since its first introduction in 2005.
The Sprinter is more than a vehicle and can always be relied on. It is known above all for its outstanding operational reliability which gives users the freedom to concentrate fully on business activities. It offers the best in terms of reliability, quality, safety, flexibility, economy, sustainability and service. In Nigeria, the Sprinter’s outstanding qualities are backed up with a two-year warranty for commercial vehicles. For all new models ex factory of the Sprinter, there is twelve-year rust-though warranty as well as a comprehensive two-year commercial vehicle warranty. This two-year warranty holds good for mileage of up to 200,000 km and is also granted for commercial use.
With fuel consumption of 7.0 litre 100km, the 7G-TRONIC 7-Speed automatic transmission, a wide range of equipment options as well as new safety packages and BLUE EFFICIENCY package, the new Sprinter is no doubt ahead of its time.
The new Sprinter with its numerous attributes, has become the yardstick for measuring a good van as it can be adapted into many applications.
Spacious and ergonomic, innovative and superior, Sprinters interior design meets th most exacting standards of functionality, quality and comfort.
The new generation telematics, the optional multi function steering wheel with chrome inserts, the new design shift/slector lever and new ‘Tunja’ standard upholstery are complemented by many other interior appointments and equipment items which increase driving comfort and enhance the overall efficiency of your working environment.
The Sprinter is available in diesel and petrol engine versions. The petrol engines include the M271E 18ML which churns out 115kw (156hp) and M272 E35 which delivers 190kw (258hp).
Monday, 1 July 2013
Mercedes Benz A-Class: Transformation beyond imagination
By Theodore Opara
THE transformation was beyond everyone’s imagination as Motoring journalists gathered at Weststar Associates office, representatives of Mercedes Benz in Nigeria to catch a glimpse of the all-new Mercedes Benz A-Class and test drive it too. The occasion was a special one for Mercedes in the country being the first time it would be launching four new exciting models at a time. Members of the public were also invited to test-drive the cars-Mercedes Benz A, B, C and E-Class. It was all fun as Weststar hosted the guests, the Mercedes Benz way.
The elated Managing Director of Weststar Associates, Mr. Mirko Plath had earlier during a press briefing explained how Mercedes Benz had transformed the A-Class to make it a class benchmark. He asked the journalists to reserve their questions until they see the new bride. But everyone was amazed when they saw the new A-Class. It was a masterpiece in every respect – design, comfort, power and safety-just name it. Mercedes Benz engineers craftsmanship reflected all over. The cockpit has been carefully crafted with unique features that gives the A-Class away as a car in the upper class. The quality materials used in the finishing were a clear testimony that Mercedes wanted to make the A-Class a benchmark in its segment. No one expected the level of transformation on the car. It was simply cute.
[caption id="attachment_401665" align="alignnone" width="412"]
...The interior[/caption]
But if the design of the all new A-Class was stunning, one would be completely lost at the performance of this entry level Mercedes Benz car. It is fast and handles like the bigger Mercedes Benz. It is spacious with array of comfort amenities and latest high- tech equipment like never before in its class as revealed during a test drive along the Lekki Expressway.
The test-drive left all wondering weather the car should still retain the model name – A-Class. It is an entirely new car with new shape, high-end luxury and unimaginable excellent road-handling.
Available in Nigeria with a 4-cylinder petrol engine as the A 180 BlueEFFICIENCY with 1595CC and 90 KW (122 horsepower) plus a maximum torque of 200Nm between 1250 and 4000 rpm, the new A-Class is one of the most fuel efficient cars in its class. Though there are other engine variants available in the A-Class lineup but not approved for Nigerian market.Mercedes Benz says the new A-Class is a true endurance athlete. The economical consumption from 3.3 litres over 100 kilometres takes you further than you think.” Mated to this engine is a 7-speed dual clutch transmission 7G-DCT which is standard. With seven forward gears and one reverse gear the dual clutch transmission combines comfort, sportiness and economy.
The new A-Class excellent roadhandling comes from its power-train, chassis and suspension. McPherson strut front axle and a completely redesigned four-link rear axle ensure driving stability and ride comfort. The standard -fit rack and pinion steering with integral Steer control Steering assistance system for support in critical driving situations stand for precise handling while the power assistance is delivered electromechanically and reduces as the speed increases.
The car offers a full range of entertainment systems from Audio 5 USB and the optional Audio 20 CD system with Becker MAP pilot to the Optional Command Online Multimedia system. The multimedia system boosts a high-resolution 17.8cm colour display. The system’s functions include radio, speed sensitive volume control, the Music Register with 10GB hard disc. The DVD drive plays CDs and MP3 content as well as video and audio DVD.
The A-Class boosts the usual Mercedes Benz Safety features including: Attention Assist, Collision Prevention Assist, Adaptive Brake, Distronic Plus, Lane Keeping Assist/Blind Spot Assist, Pre-Safe System, Intelligent Light System, Active Bonnet, and air bags.
THE transformation was beyond everyone’s imagination as Motoring journalists gathered at Weststar Associates office, representatives of Mercedes Benz in Nigeria to catch a glimpse of the all-new Mercedes Benz A-Class and test drive it too. The occasion was a special one for Mercedes in the country being the first time it would be launching four new exciting models at a time. Members of the public were also invited to test-drive the cars-Mercedes Benz A, B, C and E-Class. It was all fun as Weststar hosted the guests, the Mercedes Benz way.
The elated Managing Director of Weststar Associates, Mr. Mirko Plath had earlier during a press briefing explained how Mercedes Benz had transformed the A-Class to make it a class benchmark. He asked the journalists to reserve their questions until they see the new bride. But everyone was amazed when they saw the new A-Class. It was a masterpiece in every respect – design, comfort, power and safety-just name it. Mercedes Benz engineers craftsmanship reflected all over. The cockpit has been carefully crafted with unique features that gives the A-Class away as a car in the upper class. The quality materials used in the finishing were a clear testimony that Mercedes wanted to make the A-Class a benchmark in its segment. No one expected the level of transformation on the car. It was simply cute.
[caption id="attachment_401665" align="alignnone" width="412"]
...The interior[/caption]But if the design of the all new A-Class was stunning, one would be completely lost at the performance of this entry level Mercedes Benz car. It is fast and handles like the bigger Mercedes Benz. It is spacious with array of comfort amenities and latest high- tech equipment like never before in its class as revealed during a test drive along the Lekki Expressway.
The test-drive left all wondering weather the car should still retain the model name – A-Class. It is an entirely new car with new shape, high-end luxury and unimaginable excellent road-handling.
Available in Nigeria with a 4-cylinder petrol engine as the A 180 BlueEFFICIENCY with 1595CC and 90 KW (122 horsepower) plus a maximum torque of 200Nm between 1250 and 4000 rpm, the new A-Class is one of the most fuel efficient cars in its class. Though there are other engine variants available in the A-Class lineup but not approved for Nigerian market.Mercedes Benz says the new A-Class is a true endurance athlete. The economical consumption from 3.3 litres over 100 kilometres takes you further than you think.” Mated to this engine is a 7-speed dual clutch transmission 7G-DCT which is standard. With seven forward gears and one reverse gear the dual clutch transmission combines comfort, sportiness and economy.
The new A-Class excellent roadhandling comes from its power-train, chassis and suspension. McPherson strut front axle and a completely redesigned four-link rear axle ensure driving stability and ride comfort. The standard -fit rack and pinion steering with integral Steer control Steering assistance system for support in critical driving situations stand for precise handling while the power assistance is delivered electromechanically and reduces as the speed increases.
The car offers a full range of entertainment systems from Audio 5 USB and the optional Audio 20 CD system with Becker MAP pilot to the Optional Command Online Multimedia system. The multimedia system boosts a high-resolution 17.8cm colour display. The system’s functions include radio, speed sensitive volume control, the Music Register with 10GB hard disc. The DVD drive plays CDs and MP3 content as well as video and audio DVD.
The A-Class boosts the usual Mercedes Benz Safety features including: Attention Assist, Collision Prevention Assist, Adaptive Brake, Distronic Plus, Lane Keeping Assist/Blind Spot Assist, Pre-Safe System, Intelligent Light System, Active Bonnet, and air bags.
3rd Generation BMW X5 lavished with innovations
By Theodore Opara
When BMW decided to go into the production of sports utility vehicle segment, they came up with a unique car, the X5. And rather than call it sports utility vehicle (SUV) they tagged it Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) and this marked a new era for this car segment. The X5 changed the rules in the sports utility vehicle segment with its array of innovations. It became the standard for which premium SUVs were judged. The X5 was an instant hit, which later led to the introduction of X3 and X6.
Ever since then, BMW has not stopped making the X5 better, after all, it was the X5 that launched the brand into the all-wheel driver vehicle segment.
Banking on the successes of its previous models, BMW unveiled an all-new X5 to maintain its lead on the segment. The third generation X5 introduced into the market recently has set new standards in powerful design, luxury, spaciousness, cutting-edge versatility and efficient driving pleasure.
It is more fuel efficient, faster with unparalleled comfort and refinement.
Speaking to Vanguard Motoring recently, Mr. Sola Adigun, General Manager in charge of the BMW brand in Coscharis Motors said ''the all new X5 is a masterpiece of engineering from BMW that has no equals in its segment. According to him, BMW has proved that it is ahead in this segment with the all new BMW which offer far more than competition.
He said that only three engine variant were unveiled for now, while four other engines would be added to the lineup by the end of the year to give customers a wide range of choices.
The three engine variants available for now include the Xdrive 5.0i with new generation V8 petrol engine as well as two other diesel engines.
The V8 petrol engine version with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology delivers 330 kw/450 horse-power @ 5500 rpm and a maximum torque of 650 Nm @ 2000-4500 rpm. It takes it just 5.0 seconds to accelerate from 0-100 km/h and average fuel consumption of 10.4-10.5 litre to cover 100 kilometres. The X5 fuel consumption reduction has been made possible through its weight reduction, optimised air guidance, engine technology and standard-fitted and extremely efficient eight speed automatic gearbox with additional BMW Efficient Dynamic technology; Auto stop function, ECO PRO mode including coasting function and proactive Driving Assistant.
BMW customers are at liberty to specify their interior and exterior packages for their individual tastes. Also, Driving Experience control switch fitted as standard include Comfort, Dynamic and professional adaptive suspension and Adaptive packages suspension can be specified to enhance the car’s sporty handling properties and ride comfort, electric power steering for all model variants.
Spacious interior with luxurious ambiance in the interior, raised seating position, low-set instrument panel with horizontal lines extending into the door trim and additional trim surface, enhanced interior variability 40:20:40 split/folding rear seat backrest are hallmarks of the all new BMW X5.
The X5 now has optional third row seat while the tailgate can now be opened and closed by remote control.
When BMW decided to go into the production of sports utility vehicle segment, they came up with a unique car, the X5. And rather than call it sports utility vehicle (SUV) they tagged it Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) and this marked a new era for this car segment. The X5 changed the rules in the sports utility vehicle segment with its array of innovations. It became the standard for which premium SUVs were judged. The X5 was an instant hit, which later led to the introduction of X3 and X6.
Ever since then, BMW has not stopped making the X5 better, after all, it was the X5 that launched the brand into the all-wheel driver vehicle segment.
Banking on the successes of its previous models, BMW unveiled an all-new X5 to maintain its lead on the segment. The third generation X5 introduced into the market recently has set new standards in powerful design, luxury, spaciousness, cutting-edge versatility and efficient driving pleasure.
It is more fuel efficient, faster with unparalleled comfort and refinement.
Speaking to Vanguard Motoring recently, Mr. Sola Adigun, General Manager in charge of the BMW brand in Coscharis Motors said ''the all new X5 is a masterpiece of engineering from BMW that has no equals in its segment. According to him, BMW has proved that it is ahead in this segment with the all new BMW which offer far more than competition.
He said that only three engine variant were unveiled for now, while four other engines would be added to the lineup by the end of the year to give customers a wide range of choices.
The three engine variants available for now include the Xdrive 5.0i with new generation V8 petrol engine as well as two other diesel engines.
The V8 petrol engine version with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology delivers 330 kw/450 horse-power @ 5500 rpm and a maximum torque of 650 Nm @ 2000-4500 rpm. It takes it just 5.0 seconds to accelerate from 0-100 km/h and average fuel consumption of 10.4-10.5 litre to cover 100 kilometres. The X5 fuel consumption reduction has been made possible through its weight reduction, optimised air guidance, engine technology and standard-fitted and extremely efficient eight speed automatic gearbox with additional BMW Efficient Dynamic technology; Auto stop function, ECO PRO mode including coasting function and proactive Driving Assistant.
BMW customers are at liberty to specify their interior and exterior packages for their individual tastes. Also, Driving Experience control switch fitted as standard include Comfort, Dynamic and professional adaptive suspension and Adaptive packages suspension can be specified to enhance the car’s sporty handling properties and ride comfort, electric power steering for all model variants.
Spacious interior with luxurious ambiance in the interior, raised seating position, low-set instrument panel with horizontal lines extending into the door trim and additional trim surface, enhanced interior variability 40:20:40 split/folding rear seat backrest are hallmarks of the all new BMW X5.
The X5 now has optional third row seat while the tailgate can now be opened and closed by remote control.
Hyundai plans Korea’s largest rooftop photovoltaic power plant
Hyundai Motor Company, South Korea’s largest automaker, announced that it will install the nation’s largest rooftop photovoltaic power plant at its manufacturing factory in Asan, Korea, to expand the use of renewable energy and take measures to help reduce global warming.
Hyundai’s Asan plant will host the power plant, while Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO) will purchase the electricity produced by the solar modules and sell it to areas near the plant, including Asan city. Working with Korea Midland Power Co., Ltd. (KOMIPO), a thermal power company, Hyundai plans to install about 40,000 solar photovoltaic modules on the rooftops of Asan’s press, welding, assembly and engine buildings by the end of this year.
Hyundai’s Asan plant will host the power plant, while Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO) will purchase the electricity produced by the solar modules and sell it to areas near the plant, including Asan city. Working with Korea Midland Power Co., Ltd. (KOMIPO), a thermal power company, Hyundai plans to install about 40,000 solar photovoltaic modules on the rooftops of Asan’s press, welding, assembly and engine buildings by the end of this year.
Kia enters Interbrand’s 50 Best Global Green Brands
By Theodore Opara
Kia Motors has been named 37th in Interbrand’s list of the 50 Best Global Green Brands 2013, a debut for the Korean car manufacturer in the annual ranking of sustainability and environmental performance of the world’s 100 most valuable brands. Interbrand assesses businesses based on market perception and the actual environmental performance of the company and its products and services.
This latest recognition by Interbrand follows hot on the heels of Kia’s recent introduction to the 100 Best Global Brands 2012 rankings, in which Kia placed 87th.
According to the 50 Best Global Green Brands 2013 study, Kia has placed eco-management at the forefront of its brand management strategy alongside its emphasis on quality and design management since 2006. Under this initiative, Kia has made huge strides in improving the performance of its vehicles, with a strong focus on enhancing fuel efficiency and a long-term aim for zero-emission vehicles. As a result of its efforts, Kia continues to be perceived as a leader in the environmental sustainability sector.
“In our view, the best green brands are those that are not only vital, relevant, powerful and pioneering, but also profitable, ethical and ecologically responsible. We applaud Kia Motors’ efforts aimed at sustainability in all facets of its global operations that have enabled the company to be named as one of our Best Global Green Brands 2013,” said Jez Frampton, Global CEO of Interbrand.
Kia Motors has been named 37th in Interbrand’s list of the 50 Best Global Green Brands 2013, a debut for the Korean car manufacturer in the annual ranking of sustainability and environmental performance of the world’s 100 most valuable brands. Interbrand assesses businesses based on market perception and the actual environmental performance of the company and its products and services.
This latest recognition by Interbrand follows hot on the heels of Kia’s recent introduction to the 100 Best Global Brands 2012 rankings, in which Kia placed 87th.
According to the 50 Best Global Green Brands 2013 study, Kia has placed eco-management at the forefront of its brand management strategy alongside its emphasis on quality and design management since 2006. Under this initiative, Kia has made huge strides in improving the performance of its vehicles, with a strong focus on enhancing fuel efficiency and a long-term aim for zero-emission vehicles. As a result of its efforts, Kia continues to be perceived as a leader in the environmental sustainability sector.
“In our view, the best green brands are those that are not only vital, relevant, powerful and pioneering, but also profitable, ethical and ecologically responsible. We applaud Kia Motors’ efforts aimed at sustainability in all facets of its global operations that have enabled the company to be named as one of our Best Global Green Brands 2013,” said Jez Frampton, Global CEO of Interbrand.
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