Tag: Electric Car

  • Drunk Driver Sentenced for Trying to Misuse Level 2 FSD System

    Drunk Driver Sentenced for Trying to Misuse Level 2 FSD System

    Key Takeaways

    1. The owner installed an aftermarket device to avoid alerts from the Level 2 autonomous driving system, which cannot fully take over driving tasks.

    2. The driver, Wang Mouqun, had a history of drunk driving and used the device to simulate steering wheel contact while he was intoxicated.

    3. Wang fell asleep in the passenger seat while the car continued driving, due to the device bypassing the monitoring system.

    4. Authorities were alerted when the car stopped on its own with him asleep inside, leading to a blood test that confirmed he was over the legal alcohol limit.

    5. Wang was found guilty of driving under the influence and tampering with the self-driving system, receiving a fine and a prison sentence.

    The owner of an electric vehicle equipped with a Level 2 autonomous driving system, akin to Tesla’s FSD (Supervised), opted to install an aftermarket device to avoid the relentless alerts reminding him to stay attentive.

    Circumventing Alerts

    This individual had a past conviction for drunk driving and sought a way to escape the constant reminders from FSD-like features that emphasize the limitations of Level 2 systems, which can’t fully take over driving tasks. The court documents reveal that he used a gadget that simulates a hand on the steering wheel every few minutes, as required by the driver-assist system to prevent it from issuing warnings to the driver.

    Incident Details

    At around 00:30 on September 13, 2025, the defendant, Wang Mouqun, drove his vehicle after drinking alcohol near a restaurant located in Tangqi Town, Linping District, Hangzhou City, Zhejiang Province. By approximately 01:15 on the same night, he left his community again, activated the car’s assisted driving feature, set a destination, and utilized a privately installed “smart driving device” that bypassed the monitoring of the assisted driving system, enabling the car to operate without supervision. He then reclined in the passenger seat and fell asleep.

    Legal Consequences

    While Wang was dozing off in the passenger seat, the car continued on its route, fooled by the aftermarket gadget that kept making contact with the steering wheel. At one point, the driver-assist system disengaged and halted on a local road. The sight of a vehicle stopping by itself with a person asleep in the passenger seat caught the attention of passersby, who promptly notified the authorities.

    A subsequent blood test revealed that Wang’s alcohol levels exceeded the legal limits, marking his second offense within two years. This is not the first instance in China where a drunk driver tried to exploit an FSD-like feature, although prior cases involved drivers attempting to blame the self-driving system for accidents they caused.

    The courts found the electric vehicle owner guilty of both driving under the influence and tampering with the Level 2 self-driving system, despite his awareness of its limitations when he bought the car. He received a fine and a prison sentence of one and a half months, making this one of the first cases where someone attempted to deceive a Level 2 driver-assist system into functioning without supervision.

     

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  • Xiaomi SU7 Upgrade: 902 km Range, LiDAR & 700 TOPS Standard

    Xiaomi SU7 Upgrade: 902 km Range, LiDAR & 700 TOPS Standard

    Key Takeaways

    1. Technical Redesign: Xiaomi is introducing a major technical overhaul for its SU7 electric vehicle, moving to a standardized 752-volt platform across all models, with the top-tier SU7 Max reaching nearly 900 volts.

    2. Fast Charging: The SU7 can recharge enough energy for 670 km (416 mi) in just 15 minutes, significantly improving charging efficiency compared to competitors like Tesla and VW.

    3. Impressive Driving Range: The SU7 models offer exceptional ranges, with the Standard at 720 km (447 mi), the Pro at 902 km (560 mi), and the Max at 835 km (519 mi).

    4. Advanced Safety and Assistance Features: All SU7 variants will include LiDAR sensors, advanced radar, and 700 TOPS of AI computing capability for automated driving, alongside enhanced passive safety features like a robust body structure and nine airbags.

    5. Pricing and Availability: Pre-sales for the SU7 will start at 229,900 yuan ($32,970) in China, with the Pro and Max versions priced at 259,900 yuan ($37,268) and 309,900 yuan ($44,438), respectively. Official launch is set for April 2026.

    Chinese tech company Xiaomi is changing the game in the automotive industry by stepping away from the typical sales patterns. Rather than making only small cosmetic updates, Xiaomi is introducing a significant technical redesign for its eagerly awaited SU7 electric vehicle for the 2026 model year. An essential aspect of this overhaul is the standardization of the high-voltage systems. Previously, the entry-level models featured 400-volt technology, but the new SU7 MY2026 will incorporate at least a 752-volt platform across all variants. The top-tier SU7 Max (2026) will even reach nearly 900 volts (897 V).

    Charging Efficiency

    This transition promises remarkably quick charging times for the Xiaomi SU7 electric sedan. Xiaomi claims that the top version can recharge sufficient energy for 670 km (416 mi) within just 15 minutes. This will certainly challenge established rivals like the Tesla Model 3 and the VW ID.7.

    Impressive Range

    Xiaomi is upping its ante in terms of driving range (CLTC), showcasing impressive stats for all three models: 720 km (447 mi) for the Xiaomi SU7 Standard, while the BEV version, the Xiaomi SU7 Pro, is touted as the range champion at 902 km (560 mi). Meanwhile, the performance-focused Xiaomi SU7 Max is expected to offer an electric range of 835 km (519 mi).

    Advanced Driver Assistance

    The suite of driver assistance features is a notable challenge to competitors. Xiaomi plans to equip every SU7 with the costly LiDAR laser sensor and a 4D millimeter wave radar, even in the base model. Additionally, all SU7 variants will have a staggering 700 TOPS of computing capability for AI-driven “highly automated driving” (termed “Xiaomi HAD”).

    Enhanced Drive System

    The drive system for the SU7 series has also seen enhancements. The new V6s Plus engine is now standard for the SU7 lineup. The base model delivers an output of 235 kW (320 hp). To enhance traction, all models now sport rear tires that are 265 millimeters wide. The SU7 Pro variants will also include a premium dual-chamber air suspension with adjustable dampers.

    Stylish Interior

    The interior of the SU7 for the 2026 model year showcases new shades like “midnight black,” a revamped two-tone steering wheel, and an updated central console. Xiaomi has heeded customer reviews, ensuring that crucial features in the SU7 can still be accessed using physical buttons.

    Safety Improvements

    Xiaomi has significantly enhanced the passive safety features of the SU7 electric car. The body structure uses 2200MPa steel, forming an “integrated roll cage.” The SU7’s drive battery is safeguarded by specialized underbody protection with a highly durable coating. Inside, the number of airbags has increased to nine, now including two new rear side airbags.

    Pricing and Availability

    However, these upgrades come at a cost. Pre-sales for the SU7 in China will begin at 229,900 yuan (about $32,970), which represents a rise of around 14,000 yuan (approximately $2000). The Pro version of the SU7 is priced at 259,900 yuan (around $37,268), while the top-tier SU7 Max will cost 309,900 yuan (approximately $44,438). So far, these are the prices announced for China. Customers in China who are still waiting for their “old” SU7 model can upgrade to the new version of the SU7 at no extra cost until January 10, 2026. The official launch for the SU7 MY2026 is set for April 2026.

    Xiaomi (Weibo)

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  • 2026 Nissan Leaf: America’s Affordable EV at $29,990 with 303-Mile Range

    2026 Nissan Leaf: America’s Affordable EV at $29,990 with 303-Mile Range

    Key Takeaways

    1. The 2026 Nissan Leaf is the most affordable electric vehicle in the U.S., starting just below $30,000.
    2. It offers four trims: S, S+, SV+, and Platinum+, with prices ranging from $29,990 to $38,990.
    3. The 2026 Leaf features improved driving ranges, with top trims offering up to 303 miles on a 75 kWh battery.
    4. The base S trim’s pricing is still pending, but it is expected to be well under $30,000 with a smaller battery and shorter range.
    5. The Leaf will include two types of charging ports for convenience: a NACS inlet for Tesla Superchargers and a J1772 port for slower charging.

    Nissan has shared the pricing details for the 2026 Leaf, confirming its position as the most affordable electric vehicle in the United States. This newly designed model is in its third generation and will be priced starting at just below $30,000, with the cost of a more budget-friendly base model to be revealed soon.

    Trim Options and Pricing

    The 2026 Leaf, now redefined as a compact SUV, comes in four trims: S, S+, SV+, and Platinum+. The pricing for the latter three trims is set at $29,990, $34,230, and $38,990. Notably, the 2026 SV+ is nearly $2,000 cheaper than the 2025 SV Plus, while also providing a better driving range and more standard features.

    Historical Context

    Interestingly, the original Leaf debuted in 2011 as a hatchback with a price tag of $32,780 and a driving range of just 73 miles.

    The top three trims of the 2026 Leaf all feature a 75 kWh battery, offering driving ranges of 303 miles, 288 miles, and 259 miles, in that order.

    Future Pricing Expectations

    While the pricing for the base S trim is still pending, it’s anticipated that it will utilize a smaller battery and provide a shorter driving range. Therefore, it is reasonable to expect the S trim to come in well under $30,000.

    For charging convenience, the 2026 Leaf will come equipped with two types of charging ports. The NACS inlet will provide compatibility with Tesla’s Superchargers for rapid charging, and a J1772 port will facilitate slower AC charging.

    Competitive Landscape

    In terms of pricing competition, the Chevrolet Equinox EV is the nearest rival in the US market, coming in approximately $5,000 above the Leaf’s starting price.

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  • Xiaomi SU7 Ultra: First Chinese Car in Gran Turismo Debut

    Xiaomi SU7 Ultra: First Chinese Car in Gran Turismo Debut

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Xiaomi SU7 Ultra is the first electric vehicle from Xiaomi and is priced at RMB 529,900 (about $73,705 or €64,542).
    2. It will be featured in Gran Turismo, making it the first Chinese car in the 28-year-old racing game series, though no release date is announced yet.
    3. The car is currently the fastest four-door sedan on the Nurburgring, accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in just 1.98 seconds.
    4. It can reach a maximum speed of 350 km/h, showcasing its high-performance capabilities.
    5. The SU7 Ultra features advanced technology, including three motors, a CATL Qilin 2.0 battery with a 630 km range, and 430mm carbon brake discs for quick deceleration.

    The Xiaomi SU7 Ultra represents a top-tier variant of the brand’s inaugural electric vehicle, the SU7. While it has been exclusively available in China, Xiaomi recently revealed plans to make this impressive car more accessible through the popular racing simulator, Gran Turismo. The price for this vehicle starts at RMB 529,900 (around $73,705 or €64,542).

    Gran Turismo Collaboration

    In an exciting twist, the Xiaomi SU7 Ultra will soon be featured as a drivable car within Gran Turismo, marking a significant milestone as the first Chinese car to join this longstanding 28-year-old game series. However, there is currently no specific date announced for when players can expect to see the car in Gran Turismo 7.

    Impressive Performance

    As of now, the Xiaomi SU7 Ultra holds the record as the fastest four-door sedan on the Nurburgring, boasting an astonishing acceleration from 0 to 100km/h in just 1.98 seconds. Its maximum speed reaches an impressive 350km/h, showcasing its high-performance capabilities.

    Advanced Technology

    Equipped with three motors—two Xiaomi V8s and a single Xiaomi V6s—the SU7 Ultra features a CATL Qilin 2.0 battery, providing an impressive range of 630km according to the CLTC cycle. Notably, it is the first sedan to incorporate 430mm carbon brake discs, enabling it to decelerate from 100km/h to a complete stop in merely 30.8 meters.

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  • Volvo ES90 Review: Tesla Model S Rival with Longer Range and Clearance

    Volvo ES90 Review: Tesla Model S Rival with Longer Range and Clearance

    Key Takeaways

    1. Volvo’s ES90 is its first electric vehicle on an 800V platform, competing with Tesla’s Model Y and Model S.
    2. The ES90 features a versatile design that combines elements of sedans, fastbacks, and SUVs, offering ample space and higher ground clearance.
    3. It boasts impressive performance with a dual-motor variant that accelerates from 0-60 mph in under four seconds and has a range of up to 700 km.
    4. The luxurious interior includes a quiet cabin, spacious seating, advanced climate control, and options for high-end audio systems.
    5. The ES90 offers significant cargo space, advanced safety features, and a starting price of around $70,000 in the U.S., with various customization options.

    Volvo has introduced its inaugural electric vehicle built on an 800V platform, positioning it to rival the Tesla Model Y and Model S simultaneously.

    A Blend of Styles

    “Some people might label it as a sedan, while others could view it as a fastback or even catch hints of an SUV,” Volvo points out, and they’re correct in saying that the new ES90 embodies aspects of all three types, with a hatchback feature adding to the categorization mix.

    Smart Design

    Regardless of the classification, the Volvo ES90 showcases a design that’s both attractive and functional. It provides generous space for both passengers and luggage, while its ground clearance is notably higher compared to a standard sedan, resembling more of an SUV.

    The specifications of the ES90 align with its intelligent design. Volvo has fitted it with 92 kWh-106 kWh batteries that deliver a range of 700 km (WLTP), surpassing the Tesla Model S, which is rated at 640 km on the same testing cycle. Charging speeds are impressive too, with over 180 miles of range added in just 10 minutes using a 350 kW charger.

    Performance Features

    The dual-motor Performance variant can sprint from 0-60 mph in less than four seconds, boasting a combined motor output of 680 hp.

    Luxurious Interior

    Turning to the inside, Volvo claims it has designed one of the quietest cabins to date, allowing passengers to savor the ES90’s premium sound systems, which can include up to a 25-speaker Bowers & Wilkins setup, depending on the chosen trim level.

    Tall passengers will find comfort in the raised rear seat, which provides ample room due to a lengthy 3.1m wheelbase. The cabin’s four-zone climate control system is enhanced with an asthma-friendly filter. Additionally, the panoramic roof offers an electrochromatic option, allowing users to adjust the tint to their liking on bright sunny days.

    Impressive Cargo Space and Safety

    In terms of storage, the Volvo ES90 excels with up to 733 liters of boot space available when the three rear seats are folded down individually. It has successfully completed Volvo’s famed 55-point safety test and includes advanced driver-assist features, such as a LiDAR system on the roof and a 360-degree camera for better parking visibility, all supported by an NVIDIA DRIVE AGX Orin processing system.

    Pricing and Options

    The starting price for the Volvo ES90 will be around $70,000 in the United States, reaching approximately $82,000 for the highest trim featuring the longest range and premium audio. Buyers can choose from seven color options and four wheel designs that can go up to 22 inches in diameter.

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  • GAC to Launch Haobo Hyper GT Electric Car with 800V Charging

    GAC to Launch Haobo Hyper GT Electric Car with 800V Charging

    GAC is preparing for the worldwide debut of their Haobo Hyper GT electric vehicle on June 6th. This robust sedan is packed with features aimed at capturing the attention of international consumers. The Haobo Hyper GT focuses on long-distance travel and rapid charging capabilities. Utilizing 800V high-voltage supercharging technology, it can cover up to 710 kilometers on a single charge. Remarkably, GAC asserts that a mere 15-minute charge can provide enough energy to drive an additional 450 kilometers.

    Fast Charging and Navigation

    A standout attribute is the car’s “mapless global communication” intelligent driving system, implying it can navigate globally without relying on local mapping systems. Previous tests in countries such as Italy, Thailand, and China appear to validate this capability.

    Performance and Specs

    Efficiency does not come at the expense of performance. The rear-wheel drive single motor produces an impressive 340 horsepower and 434 Nm of torque, enabling the vehicle to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.9 seconds.

    Constructed on GAC’s AEP 3.0 platform, the Haobo Hyper GT is 4880mm in length, 1885mm in width, and 1455mm in height, with a substantial 2920mm wheelbase. An earlier version, the “GT 710 rear-wheel drive high-end intelligent driving 3L version,” was introduced earlier this year at a price of 259,900 yuan (approximately $38,800). This model featured an extensive array of sensors, including a three-laser radar system, 12 cameras, 6 millimeter-wave radars, and an infrared night vision camera for superior environmental awareness.

    Market Potential

    With its extended range, sophisticated navigation features, and robust performance, the Haobo Hyper GT Global Model seems poised to be a formidable player in the global electric vehicle market. The official launch on June 6th is expected to provide further information regarding pricing and availability in different regions.

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  • Xiaomi Reveals Higher Price for SU7 EV as Car Appears in China Stores

    Xiaomi Reveals Higher Price for SU7 EV as Car Appears in China Stores

    Xiaomi, the Chinese technology company, is preparing to open orders for its inaugural electric vehicle, the SU7. The company's vision is for the SU7 to be the most stylish, user-friendly, and intelligent car available, all for a price below 500,000 yuan ($69,424). The SU7, introduced by Xiaomi in December, has generated considerable enthusiasm. Given Xiaomi's track record of providing value for money, there are concerns among consumers that a high price might impact sales.

    Xiaomi Announces SU7 Orders

    Xiaomi will officially reveal the pricing details and commence order-taking for the SU7 on Thursday. This marks the first time Xiaomi has disclosed the upper limit of the price range. The unveiling of the car began in Xiaomi stores across China on Monday.

    SU7 Specifications and Variants

    The SU7 will be offered in two variants, boasting driving ranges of up to 668km and 800km on a single charge. For comparison, Tesla's Model S offers a range of up to 650km.

    Xiaomi's Expansion into Electric Vehicles

    This move reflects Xiaomi's strategy to diversify beyond smartphones amidst a plateau in demand. Xiaomi is among the select new entrants authorized by Chinese regulators for electric vehicle production. The manufacturing of its vehicles is handled by a subsidiary of the state-owned BAIC Group. The recent public reveal of the factory producing SU7 EVs has reignited excitement among fans. Xiaomi faces high expectations, and the success of its inaugural car could have significant implications for the company.

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  • Apple Car reportedly scrapped for AI preference

    Apple Car reportedly scrapped for AI preference

    Apple has reportedly abandoned its plans for the highly anticipated electric car. Despite actively working on self-driving technology and more for its Apple Car over the years, the project has now been halted, with AI (Artificial Intelligence) being cited as the reason behind this decision.

    Apple Car Canceled, Focus Shifts to AI

    The news of the cancellation comes from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman. Apple’s ambitious plans had encountered difficulties in recent months, but progress appeared to be steady. However, earlier this week, a surprising announcement stunned nearly 2,000 employees when Chief Operating Officer Jeff Williams and Vice President Kevin Lynch, who oversaw the project, revealed that the Apple Car was no longer in development.

    Employees who were part of the Special Projects Group (SPG) working on the car project are said to be redirected to a new focus area—artificial intelligence. This shift in direction aligns with the increasing demand for AI and its significant growth in recent times. The team is reportedly transitioning to work on generative AI. Given that the SPG comprises engineers and vehicle designers, their future within the company remains uncertain, with potential layoffs looming on the horizon.

    Market Shift: From Project Titan to AI

    If the reports are accurate, Project Titan, Apple’s electric car initiative, is now being abandoned in favor of AI development. This move is not entirely unexpected, especially considering the challenges faced by electric vehicle manufacturers due to production issues and declining demand. It is essential to note that this information is currently speculative, so it is advisable to approach it with caution until further details emerge.

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  • Rumoured Electric Car Launch by Apple Allegedly Delayed

    Rumoured Electric Car Launch by Apple Allegedly Delayed

    Apple’s Electric Vehicle Project Faces Challenges and Delays

    Apple’s secretive electric vehicle project, known as Project Titan, has hit several roadblocks and is now undergoing another recalibration of its goals, according to Bloomberg. Initially, Apple aimed to develop a fully self-driving electric vehicle, even considering the possibility of a robotaxi. To achieve this, the company recruited top talent from the automotive and battery sectors, including former Tesla employees. However, the journey has not been smooth, and Apple has had to adjust its ambitions multiple times.

    A Shift in Direction

    The latest pivot for Apple’s electric vehicle project is a move away from a fully autonomous vehicle to one that offers assistance on highways but still requires human attention and intervention. This shift aligns Apple’s offering more closely with existing advanced cruise control systems found in vehicles from Tesla and General Motors. It reflects the complexities and safety considerations involved in creating a fully autonomous vehicle.

    Timeline Delayed

    In addition to adjusting its goals, Apple has also postponed its timeline for launching its electric car. The original target of 2026 has been pushed back to 2028. This delay highlights the intricate and costly nature of automotive innovation. Apple’s leadership is now at a crossroads, considering whether to continue investing resources into the project or cut their losses if this new direction fails to yield results.

    Competition in the Electric Vehicle Market

    Apple’s entry into the electric vehicle market comes at a time when the industry is booming. With Tesla leading the charge and tech firms like Sony and Alphabet’s Waymo also entering the space, the competition is fierce. Apple’s potential impact is significant, not only because of its reputation for design and user experience but also due to its history of disrupting industries.

    Can Apple Carve out a Niche?

    As Apple moves closer to realizing its electric vehicle dreams, the question remains: Can it carve out a unique niche in an already crowded market? Only time will tell if Apple’s electric car will revolutionize the industry or become a footnote in automotive history. Despite the challenges and delays, Apple’s entry into the electric vehicle market has the potential to be a game-changer.

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  • Lei Jun Heads Xiaomi’s $1.5B Electric Car Initiative

    Lei Jun Heads Xiaomi’s $1.5B Electric Car Initiative

    Xiaomi’s Entry into the Electric Vehicle Sector

    Xiaomi, a prominent Chinese technology company, has declared its intention to make an entrance into the automotive domain by introducing its inaugural electric car in the initial half of 2024. In a recent discussion with Chinese state broadcaster CCTV, the company’s founder, Lei Jun, elucidated his ambitious vision for this venture.

    Xiaomi’s Aspirations

    Lei Jun emphasized his resolve to thrive in the realm of car manufacturing, articulating, "My objective in entering the automobile manufacturing sector is to emerge victorious." He delineated two fundamental principles that will shape Xiaomi’s automotive endeavors: harnessing established technologies from well-known automakers and committing significant resources to research and development.

    Innovative Approach to Automotive Crafting

    Xiaomi is adopting a distinctive strategy in car production. Lei disclosed that the company has allocated resources exceeding ten times what is conventionally invested in a maiden car model by a traditional automobile manufacturer. This translates to a specialized team of 3,400 engineers and an R&D allocation surpassing 10 billion yuan (equivalent to approximately $1.4 billion).

    "We assigned 3,400 engineers to the initial model, with the entire R&D investment exceeding RMB 10 billion. Hence, we are leveraging over ten times the industry standard investment," Lei elaborated.

    Impending Obstacles

    Despite his confidence in Xiaomi’s capabilities, Lei acknowledged the forthcoming challenges. He expressed apprehension regarding potential production hindrances and extended waiting periods, which, if not managed adeptly, could cast a negative light on Xiaomi’s reputation.

    "I am primarily concerned that a surge in demand resulting in prolonged waiting times, say one or two years, might tarnish our image," Lei conceded.

    The Unveiling and Technical Specifications

    While the official launch of Xiaomi’s electric vehicle is yet to occur, some particulars have already been disclosed. Dubbed the SU7, the model is a four-door sedan boasting a sporty aesthetic. It surpasses the dimensions of both Tesla’s Model 3 and Nio’s ET5. The SU7 will be offered with two battery alternatives, providing ranges of up to 800 kilometers on a single charge.

    Rivalry in the Electric Vehicle Sector

    Xiaomi is stepping into an already congested electric vehicle market, where established entities and ambitious startups are contending for supremacy. The triumph of Xiaomi’s electric car will be contingent on its capacity to deliver a vehicle that excels in terms of performance, technology, and notably, price.

    In summary, Xiaomi is venturing into the automotive domain with the launch of its maiden electric car in 2024. With lofty aspirations, substantial investments, and an innovative approach to car production, Xiaomi aims to carve a niche in the fiercely competitive electric vehicle market. Although the revelation of the SU7 model and its specifications has sparked anticipation, the ultimate verdict will depend on whether Xiaomi can present a vehicle that surpasses its rivals in various aspects, encompassing affordability.

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