The Ostentatienne Opera Sedan: A Timeless Masterpiece by Bruce Mohs

Gem from the Past - The world of automotive design is a fascinating realm where creativity and innovation collide to produce vehicles that often push the boundaries of conventional aesthetics. Bruce Mohs, a visionary in this realm, showcased his avant-garde approach with the 1967 Ostentatienne Opera Sedan, now hailed as an eccentric symbol of luxury.

The Ostentatienne Opera Sedan, crafted by Bruce Mohs in 1967 based on a real International truck chassis, stands as an eccentric symbol of luxury, earning the title of the ultimate 'look-at-me-mobile' during its time. (Picture from: CurbSideClassic)

Bruce Mohs, primarily known as an entrepreneur with a seaplane service company in Madison, Wisconsin, surprised many with his foray into automobile manufacturing. Priced at $19,600 during its debut, the Ostentatienne Opera Sedan attracted attention despite initial commercial hurdles, thanks to its bold and distinctive design.

The Mohs Ostentatienne Opera Sedan boasted a real truck chassis from International with a 119″ wheelbase, and measured a massive 90″ wide, 69″ tall, 246″ long, and weighed some 6,100 lbs. (Picture from: CurbSideClassic)

Unlike typical luxury sedans of its time, the Ostentatienne boasted a real truck chassis from International with a 119″ wheelbase, and measured a massive 90″ wide, 69″ tall, 246″ long, and weighed some 6,100 lbs., extravagant styling, and lavish gold accents. Its sheer presence commanded attention, earning it the moniker of the ultimate "look-at-me-mobile" at the time.

One of the standout features of the Mohs Ostentatienne Opera Sedan was its distinctive entrance: a fold-up central rear door reinforced with heavy steel girders for enhanced safety. (Picture from: CurbSideClassic)

One of the defining features of the Ostentatienne was its singular entrance—a fold-up central rear door, complemented by heavy steel girders for safety. Although the interior space was not overly generous, the car offered excellent visibility, thanks to its lack of real pillars and cantilevered roof design.

While the interior space wasn't expansive, the car provided superb visibility due to its pillar-less design and cantilevered roof. (Picture from: CurbSideClassic)

Despite being powered by a 250 hp 304 CID V8 engine, some enthusiasts believed that the Ostentatienne deserved a more potent International 549 CID V8, fitting for its imposing stature. The car also boasted luxurious amenities like genuine walnut on the dash, 110V power, a fridge, and unique "isle lights," reminiscent of features found in seaplanes.

The 1967 Mohs Ostentatienne Opera Sedan was crafted to provide a luxurious and comfortable four-seater driving experience, boasting a 250 hp 304 CID V8 engine. (Picture from: CurbSideClassic)

Mohs' unconventional designs, including the Ostentatienne and later the Safarikar in 1973, raised eyebrows and sparked discussions about automotive aesthetics and safety. The Safarikar, based on an International Travelall, featured peculiar elements like outward-opening doors on sliding rods, intended for side-impact protection but criticized for being impractical.

The 1967 Mohs Ostentatienne Opera Sedan also boasted luxurious amenities like genuine walnut on the dash, 110V power, a fridge, and unique "isle lights," reminiscent of features found in seaplanes. (Picture from: CurbSideClassic)

Despite the initial skepticism and lack of commercial success, Mohs' creations have garnered admiration and curiosity over time. The restoration of the original Ostentatienne prototype in 2009 by Wisconsin high schools breathed new life into this iconic piece of automotive history. After fully restored to its original glory and now resides at Wayne Lensing's Historic Auto Museum in Roscoe, Illinois.

Bruce Mohs' next eccentric creation, the Safarikar, emerged in 1973, built upon an International Travelall platform, and also boasted unique features such as outward-opening doors on sliding rods. (Picture from: CurbSideClassic)

In retrospect, Mohs' daring designs may have been ahead of their time, paving the way for future automotive trends and influencing urban automotive culture. The legacy of the Ostentatienne Opera Sedan lives on as a symbol of daring creativity and automotive innovation that continues to inspire enthusiasts and designers alike.

The story of Bruce Mohs and his unconventional automobiles serves as a reminder that true innovation often comes from daring to break away from the norm and exploring uncharted territories in design and engineering. As automotive enthusiasts, we can only imagine what other visionary creations might emerge in the future, pushing the boundaries of what we perceive as possible in the world of automobiles. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CARTHROTTLE | CURBSIDECLASSIC | THEAUTOPIAN | WIKIPEDIA ]

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The Ultimate Off-Road Companion: M-Hero 917 by Dongfeng

The Tough One - The M-Hero 917, a groundbreaking off-roader from Dongfeng Motors in China, has set its sights on conquering the global automotive market. Despite being relatively lesser-known outside Asia and the U.S., Dongfeng's legacy dates back to 1969, showcasing its extensive experience in the automotive industry. Now, with the introduction of the M-Hero 917, Dongfeng is gearing up to compete in the fiercely competitive U.S. SUV market, armed with innovation and cutting-edge technology.

The Dongfeng M-Hero 917, equipped with innovation and cutting-edge technology, is poised to compete fiercely in the U.S. SUV market. (Picture from: M-Hero)

Unveiled for mass production in April 2023, the M-Hero 917 immediately grabs attention with its adventurous and robust design. Its exterior, reminiscent of military vehicles, is further complemented by the integration of a drone, enhancing its appeal and functionality, particularly for enthusiasts venturing off-road.

The Dongfeng M-Hero 917 is an off-road beast with BEV and EREV powertrain options and a peak power of 1,088 hp. (Picture from: CarSpiritPK)

The M-Hero 917's striking appearance reflects precision and durability, akin to a finely crafted tool. The matte black finish and rugged bumper contribute to its military-inspired aesthetics, while its body-on-frame chassis and robust powertrain ensure reliability and exceptional performance.

The matte black finish and rugged bumper contribute to its military-inspired aesthetics, while its body-on-frame chassis and robust powertrain ensure reliability and exceptional performance. (Picture from: CarNewsChina)

The M-Hero 917 is an off-road beast with BEV (Battery Electric Vehicle) and EREV (Extended Range Electric Vehicle) powertrain options and a peak power of 1,088 hp. Buyers in China can choose between the fully electric version, equipped with four electric motors and a sizable battery, or the range-extender hybrid system, incorporating a turbocharged generator and multiple electric motors. With a power output reaching up to 816 horsepower, the M-Hero 917 can accelerate from 0 to 62 miles per hour in just six seconds, showcasing its remarkable performance capabilities.

The Dongfeng M-Hero 917, equipped with innovation and cutting-edge technology, is poised to compete fiercely in the U.S. SUV market. (Picture from: ML-Vehicle)

The EREV version boasts three electric motors generating 600 kW (816 hp), while the ICE variant features a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine producing 197 hp. However, the ICE doesn't transmit torque to the wheels; it serves as a generator, charging the battery and powering the electric motor directly. The CATL ternary battery, with a capacity of 66 kWh, contributes to the SUV's impressive mixed range of 1,032 km (CLTC).

The Dongfeng M-Hero 917's interior features modern amenities like a digital instrument cluster, navigation screen, and intuitive controls, enhancing comfort and convenience. (Picture from: CarSpiritPK)

Stepping inside the M-Hero 917 reveals a blend of luxury and advanced technology. The interior features modern amenities like a digital instrument cluster, navigation screen, and intuitive controls, enhancing comfort and convenience. Unique elements such as the airplane-throttle-style controls and distinctive door handles add a touch of sophistication to the cabin.

The Dongfeng M-Hero 917, equipped with innovation and cutting-edge technology, is poised to compete fiercely in the U.S. SUV market. (Picture from: id.Made-In-China)

In terms of range, the M-Hero 917 delivers exceptional performance, with the BEV variant capable of covering up to 505 kilometers on a single charge, priced at CHN ¥697,700 or approximately $95,730. The Extended-Range version extends this range to an impressive 1,032 kilometers, making it suitable for extensive journeys and off-road escapades. However, these cutting-edge features come with a premium price tag, starting at around CHN ¥637,700 or approximately $87,500.

The Dongfeng M-Hero 917, equipped with innovation and cutting-edge technology, is poised to compete fiercely in the U.S. SUV market. (Picture from: ML-Vehicle)

Dongfeng's strategic foray into the U.S. market with the M-Hero 917 underscores the brand's commitment to meeting consumer demands for high-performance SUVs with eco-friendly attributes. The positive reception garnered by Dongfeng's lineup, including the Warrior M50 ICE pickup truck, signals a promising future for the brand. With its blend of power, efficiency, and innovation, the M-Hero 917 is poised to make a significant impact in the competitive SUV landscape.

In summary, the Dongfeng M-Hero 917 represents a fusion of ruggedness, luxury, and state-of-the-art technology, appealing to discerning consumers seeking adventure and exceptional performance. With its impressive features and competitive pricing, the M-Hero 917 marks Dongfeng's ambitious entry into the global automotive market, setting new standards in the SUV segment. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | DONGFENG | M-HERO | CARNEWSCHINA | ID.MOTOR1 | ID.MADE-IN-CHINA | CARSPIRITPK | ML-VEHICLE ]

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Unveiling Lancia's Hidden Treasure: The Mizar Concept's Timeless Aesthetic

Unique ONES - Lancia, the iconic Italian brand with a storied history in the world of racing, is set for a remarkable rebirth in the coming years. The revival plan not only includes the eagerly anticipated Lancia New Ypsilon slated for a 2024 release but also brings back the flagship Gamma and potentially transforms the classic Lancia Delta into a crossover – a move bound to stir emotions among ardent Lancia enthusiasts.

The Lancia Mizar Concept born from the skilled hands of renowned designer Giovanni Michelloti, made its debut at the 1974 Turin Motor Show. (Picture from: Pinterest)

At the heart of Stellantis group's vision for Lancia lies a commitment to style and elegance, aiming to breathe new life into a brand that has left an indelible mark on automotive history. The designers tasked with shaping Lancia's future draw inspiration not only from contemporary trends but also from the brand's rich past, harking back to iconic models like the Stratos and the Flaminia. However, in this journey of rediscovery, an obscure gem from the 1970s, the Lancia Mizar Concept, emerges as a potential source of inspiration.

The Lancia Mizar Concept's design showcased a distinctive grille, elevated ground clearance reminiscent of modern crossovers, and an expansive glass area. (Picture from: OldConceptCars)

The Lancia Mizar, born from the skilled hands of renowned designer Giovanni Michelotti, made its debut at the 1974 Turin Motor Show. Based on the Beta 1800 platform, this concept car not only astonished onlookers with its unconventional lines but also provided inspiration for other unique models, including the one-off Lancia Beta Felber FF. Michelotti's design showcased a distinctive grille, elevated ground clearance reminiscent of modern crossovers, and an expansive glass area.

The Lancia Mizar Concept not only astonished onlookers with its unconventional lines but also provided inspiration for other unique models, including the one-off Lancia Beta Felber FF. (Picture from: es.Motor1)

Safety and passenger comfort took precedence in the Mizar's design. Boasting four separate gull-wing doors for easy access, the Lancia Mizar prioritized both style and functionality. The exterior, painted in a light orchid hue, aimed to capture attention on the road, making a bold statement wherever it went.

The Lancia Mizar Concept featuring particularly the four vertically opening gull-wing doors – a design element typically associated with the sportiest cars, including the legendary Mercedes-Benz 300SL. (Picture from: es.Motor1)

Michelotti's genius is evident in the Mizar's unconventional features, particularly the four vertically opening gull-wing doors – a design element typically associated with the sportiest cars, including the legendary Mercedes-Benz 300SL. Inside, a spacious and well-finished cabin welcomed passengers with beige and purple upholstery, featuring four comfortable seats derived from the Beta model. The minimalist dashboard housed essential controls, including the radio and heating, along with convenient storage compartments.

The Lancia Mizar Concept's peculiar aspect was the absence of seat belts, a reflection of the era's lax safety regulations, and only dedication to both aesthetics and functionality.  (Picture from: OldConceptCars)

A peculiar aspect of the Lancia Mizar prototype was the absence of seat belts, a reflection of the era's lax safety regulations. This decision aimed to preserve the interior's elegant design, showcasing Michelotti's dedication to both aesthetics and functionality. | _n9RztdDkWA |

The Lancia Mizar Concept remains a testament to Michelotti's design prowess and serves as an intriguing piece in the mosaic of Lancia's illustrious history. (Picture from: PlanetCarsz)

While details about the Mizar's engine remain scarce, it is likely that it utilized a powerplant derived from the Beta. Despite the prototype never making it to production, the Lancia Mizar remains a testament to Michelotti's design prowess and serves as an intriguing piece in the mosaic of Lancia's illustrious history. 

As Lancia embarks on its revival journey, the echoes of the Mizar's avant-garde design may well reverberate, influencing the brand's future direction in unexpected yet captivating ways. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | ES.MOTOR1 | OLDCONCEPTCARS | STORY-CARS | CARROZZIERI-ITALIANI | PLANETCARSZ | CLASSICANDSPORTSCAR ]

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Seat Nardi 750GT: The Mysterious Spaniard Tiny Racer

Unique ONES - In the realm of classic cars, there exists a hidden gem – a tiny sports car from an Italian affiliated Spaniard coachbuilder company that remains unfamiliar to many modern automotive enthusiasts. Let's delve into the intriguing tale of the Seat Nardi 750GT, a distinctive coupe born out of the fervor for car racing in the late 1950s by a group of Spaniards from the Zaragoza region.

The Seat Nardi 750GT is a distinctive coupe born out of the fervor for car racing in the late 1950s by a group of Spaniards from the Zaragoza region. (Picture from: AutoCollec)

During the 1950s, Nardi Torino gained global recognition for crafting exquisite steering wheels from top-quality wood and aluminum, adorning prestigious cars such as Ferrari, Lancia, and Alfa Romeo. While renowned for steering wheels, Nardi Torino expanded its horizons, venturing into accessories for racing cars and becoming synonymous with competition.

In the mid-1950s, a Spanish group, led by pilot engineer Pelayo Martínez, forged a deal with Enrico Nardi in Turin. This collaboration birthed Nardi Española SL on March 4, 1955, with a focus on designing and producing motor vehicle elements and accessories.

Nardi Española collaborated with the famed Italian designer Giovanni Michelotti to reimagine the Seat 600 into the legendary Nardi 750, unveiled in Madrid in 1960. (Picture from: AutoCollec)

With the commencement of Seat 600 production in 1957, Nardi Española shifted its focus to accessories and engine preparation kits for this model, boosting its power by 50%. The kits, which included modifications to the cylinder head, pistons, carburetor, and crankshaft, enhanced the displacement and compression, utilizing Weber dual-barrel carburetors. The most potent kit, the 1000 kit, doubled the power to 54 hp, transforming the Seat 600 into a high-performance machine.

The Seat Nardi 750GT's interior was plush and offered all the instrumentation of a real sports car, obviously with a Nardi steering wheel and full Veglia instrumentation. (Picture from: AutoCollec)

Driven by boundless creativity, Nardi Española enlisted the renowned Italian designer Giovanni Michelotti to transform the Seat 600 into the Nardi 750, unveiled in Madrid in 1960. Constructed entirely in Zaragoza, Spain, this aluminum-bodied coupe retained the 750 Nardi engine. Despite sharing the same engine as the Seat 600, the Nardi 750 boasted modifications from the Nardi engine preparation kit, generating 46hp at 6,000 rpm.

The Seat Nardi 750GT sharing the same engine as the Seat 600, is boasted modifications from the Nardi engine preparation kit, generating 46hp at 6,000 rpm. (Picture from: AutoCollec)

A testament to meticulous craftsmanship, the assembly of the Nardi 750 required 900 hours of work. Surprisingly, it weighed almost 40 kg less than the Seat 600, thanks to extensive aerodynamic and weight reduction enhancements. Nardi Española's confidence in the car was evident as they offered it with a 100,000-kilometer warranty, showcasing the reliability of their prepared engines.

The Seat Nardi 750GT reached a top speed of 160 km/hour, enhanced by stability improvements like Koni shock absorbers. (Picture from: AutoCollec)

The Nardi 750 GT reached a top speed of 160 km/hour, enhanced by stability improvements like Koni shock absorbers. It positioned itself as a "customer competition" car, rivaling the likes of Italian Abarth and French Alpine productions. 

Furthermore, this Spaniard tiny racer adorned with plush interiors featuring Nardi steering wheels and Veglia instrumentation, the Nardi 750 GT, priced at almost 200,000 pesetas, stood as an elite symbol within Spanish society until the arrival of FASA-Renault Alpine.

Produced from 1960 to 1965, with approximately 65 or 66 units crafted, the Nardi 750 GT remains a rarity. Legend has it that the Nardi 750's reputation transcended borders, attracting owners like the American actor William Holden, who journeyed to Zaragoza to add one to his private collection. | cGmRS-qGKYo |

Among the surviving examples, one stands out – had showcased at the 2019 Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este competition, it belongs to the fortunate Greek auto enthusiast Alex Vazeo, preserving the legacy of this extraordinary piece of automotive history. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | OLDTIMERPICTURES | CONCORSODELEGANZAVILLADESTE | AUTOCOLLEC ]

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Sleek Fusion: Exploring the 1977 Pontiac Firebird Type K Sports Wagon Concept

Unique ONES - Enthusiasts have always had a soft spot for sports car/station wagon hybrids, at least in theory. The allure of merging sleek design with practicality has driven many automakers to explore this niche. One such intriguing concept was the 1977 Pontiac Firebird Type K, where the 'K' stands for Kammback.

The Pontiac Type K Concept, designed by Gerry Brochstein under the guidance of GM executive David R. Holls, highlights the aerodynamic advantages of the Kamm tail design. (Picture from: MacMotorCityGarage)

Unlike traditional wagons with rear tailgates, the Firebird Type K boasted gullwing-style rear windows on both sides, offering easy access to the cargo area. However, the vertical rear window didn't open, raising questions about practicality, especially for pet owners. The concept's potential tweaks for production remained unexplored, leaving enthusiasts to wonder about its untapped possibilities.

The Pontiac Firebird Type K concept stood out as a significant experiment in this trend, capitalizing on the elegant design of the second-generation Firebird body shell crafted by renowned GM designer Bill Porter. (Picture from: MacMotorCityGarage)

The genesis of sporty station wagon variants traces back to the early days of the Camaro/Firebird F-Body platform. GM's stylists, always seeking innovation, envisioned blending the pony car package with wagon functionality. The 1977-1979 Firebird Type K emerged as a notable experiment within this trend, leveraging the clean design of the second-generation Firebird body shell by renowned GM designer Bill Porter.

The Pontiac Type K concept powered by an 403 CID, 185 hp V8 from Oldsmobile, garnered significant attention from car enthusiasts. (Picture from: MacMotorCityGarage)

Gerry Brochstein's skillful styling, guided by GM executive David R. Holls, took the Type K Concept to new heights. Despite its groundbreaking features, this model remained a prototype, showcasing the aerodynamic benefits of the Kamm tail. The fixed rear glass and gullwing-style side hatches ensured effortless access to the meticulously designed rear cargo area. Paired with potent engine choices like the 403 CID, 185 hp V8 from Oldsmobile, these design innovations captured the admiration of car enthusiasts worldwide.

During the creation of the Pontiac Firebird Type K concept, GM partnered with Pininfarina to craft two operational prototypes, one in silver and one in gold. (Picture from: MacMotorCityGarage)

The Type K's fame soared when GM collaborated with Italian coachbuilder Pininfarina to create two working prototypes, one silver and one gold. Despite the gold prototype's existence, it was the silver Type K that stole the spotlight, becoming a star attraction at auto shows and even making a cameo on the popular TV series The Rockford Files in 1979.

However, the Type K's journey was short-lived, as production studies revealed challenges in pricing the F-Body wagon competitively. With projected costs exceeding $25,000, the feasibility of mass production dwindled. Although a few replicas surfaced later, the Type K remained a tantalizing "what-if" moment in automotive history.

The Pontiac Firebird Type K concept, featuring fixed rear glass and gullwing-style side hatches, offered seamless access to the meticulously designed rear cargo area.. (Picture from: MacMotorCityGarage)

Today, with station wagons facing declining popularity, the idea of revisiting the pony car wagon concept, even on the current Camaro platform, seems improbable. Nevertheless, automotive enthusiasts continue to muse over the potential blend of sportiness and utility, keeping the spirit of innovation alive in the realm of car design.

In conclusion, while the Firebird Type K may never have graced showrooms, its legacy as a pioneering concept car endures, reminding us of the ongoing quest for innovation and the enduring fascination with unique automotive designs. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | HEMMINGS | MACMOTORCITYGARAGE | MYCARQUEST | WEIRDWHEELS ]

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From Glory to Closure: The Enduring Impact of Facel Vega in Automotive History

Rise & Fall - Once upon a time, in the vibrant world of automotive innovation, Facel Vega stood as a shining beacon of creativity and engineering prowess. Originating as a subsidiary of Bronzavia, Facel S.A. swiftly gained renown for crafting exquisite car bodies that adorned prestigious French chassis under the visionary leadership of Jean Daninos. 

The 1954 Facel Vega FV stood as a shining beacon of creativity and engineering prowess, unveiled at the prestigious 1954 Paris Auto Show. (Picture from: ClassicDriver)

Facel made some 45,000 car bodies for Panhard alone, along with Simca Sport variants and Ford Comete cars. A notable body was the Cresta, fitted to a Bentley Mark VI chassis. However, the winds of change blew fiercely after World War II, compelling the company to transition from body production to manufacturing complete vehicles.

The Facel-bodied Simca 9 Sport Coupe as seen in the 1953 model. (Picture from: HistoricVehicles)

The turning point came with the unveiling of the Facel Vega at the prestigious 1954 Paris Auto Show. Powered by Chrysler 'Hemi' V8 engines and exuding a captivating blend of European sophistication and American muscle, Facel Vega cars captured the imagination of enthusiasts worldwide. Models like the FV and HK500 became synonymous with luxury and performance, attracting a discerning clientele that included celebrities and aficionados alike.

The 1951 Bentley Mark VI Facel-Metalon Coupé. (Picture from: HistoricVehicles)

Despite early triumphs, Facel Vega encountered a formidable challenge in 1959 with the introduction of the Facellia. Equipped with an in-house twin-cam engine, the Facellia aimed to compete in the mid-segment luxury sports car market, facing off against formidable rivals like the Porsche 356 and Alfa Romeo Giulietta Spyder. However, issues such as pricing discrepancies and frequent engine failures marred its reputation, casting a shadow over Facel Vega's legacy.

The Facel Vega HK 500 (as seen in the 1959 model) became synonymous with luxury and performance, attracting a discerning clientele that included celebrities and aficionados alike. (Picture from: ClassicDriver)

By 1964, the French automaker found itself navigating treacherous financial waters, leading to the unfortunate closure of its factory doors. Nevertheless, the legacy of Facel Vega endures as a testament to automotive ingenuity and the relentless pursuit of excellence. Today, collectors and enthusiasts cherish Facel Vega models for their timeless charm and the lessons they impart about resilience in the face of adversity.

The 1958 Facel Vega Excellence hardtop EX1. (Picture from: HistoricVehicles)

The rise and fall of Facel Vega serve as a poignant reminder of the cyclical nature of innovation in the automotive industry. It underscores the importance of adaptability and strategic decision-making, highlighting the delicate balance between ambition and practicality.

The Facel Vega Facellia (as seen in the 1961 Cabriolet model) aimed to compete in the mid-segment luxury sports car market. (Picture from: JB-Classic)

As we look back on Facel Vega's journey, we glean valuable insights that inspire us to forge ahead with determination and creativity in shaping the future of mobility. In conclusion, Facel Vega's narrative resonates as a captivating chapter in automotive history, reminding us that every challenge is an opportunity for growth and transformation.

Let us draw inspiration from the past to propel us towards a future where innovation and passion converge to create automotive marvels that captivate hearts and minds across generations. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | FACEL-VEGA | CLASSICDRIVER | HISTORICVEHICLES | JB-CLASSIC | WIKIPEDIA ]

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