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Dodge Overview
A hot new Viper SRT-10 is the big news for Dodge for the 2003 model year. As if more power was needed from the traditional-styled coupe and roadster, the new V-10 engine has earned a boost to 500 horsepower.
Also on the performance side of the aisle, Dodge is launching an SRT-4 edition of its compact Neon sedan. An SRT-10 version of its Ram pickup truck is also in the works. If that’s not intense enough, the 500-hp Ram SRT-10 appeared at Detroit’s North American International Auto Show in January 2002 and is slated for production. But that won’t happen until late 2003. The SRT vehicles are part of a new high-performance program called Performance Vehicle Operations (PVO), which Dodge announced at Detroit’s 2002 auto show.
On a tamer note, Dodge has also redesigned its heavy-duty Ram 2500/3500 pickups, following the lead of the restyling done last year on the lighter-duty Ram 1500 series. At Detroit’s 2003 auto show, the automaker introduced a new Sprinter full-size van that is meant to replace the Ram Van series, which will end production after the 2003 model year.
In the spring of 2002, DaimlerChrysler announced that new products must be capable of yielding sales of 100,000 units per year or they’ll be abandoned before development begins. Therefore, a number of concept cars that might otherwise have been considered for production are likely to be extinguished. That list likely includes the M80 concept pickup seen at Detroit’s auto show in January 2002.
Car and truck sales both fell during 2001, according to Automotive News. A total of 329,053 passenger cars were sold, which represents a decrease of 10.6 percent; trucks and vans dipped by 14.8 percent to 926,710 units.
DaimlerChrysler continues to position Dodge as its sporty performance division. Even so, the most popular Dodge is the Caravan — still the best-selling minivan in the business even after a redesign for 2001. When added together, Chrysler and Dodge minivans hold a 40-percent share of the minivan market, with 430,383 units sold in the United States during 2001, according to Automotive News.
Full-size sedans from Chrysler and Dodge are likely to be redesigned and gain rear-wheel drive (RWD) for the 2004 model year. Front-wheel drive (FWD) has been the configuration used on all of the company’s passenger cars since 1990.
Reported by Jim Flammang for cars.com
REBATES: Customer Incentives
YOUNG DRIVERS: Student Buyer Programs
Sprinter
Originally badged as a Freightliner model, the Sprinter is intended mainly for commercial owners and comes in cargo and passenger versions, and a choice of three wheelbases. Sprinters are available with either a standard 64-inch roof height or in high-roof form that provides 73 inches of walk-through height. A large sliding door is installed on the right side, and one for the left side is also available.
Up to 10 occupants can fit inside the passenger-carrying Sprinter. Two people sit up front and as many as three more rows of seats may be installed in the rear. Tempmatik air conditioning, which automatically controls cabin temperature, is standard, and a second air conditioner is available for passenger models.
A Mercedes-Benz 2.7-liter five-cylinder CDI (common rail direct injection) turbo-diesel engine produces 154 hp and 243 pounds-feet of torque. A torque-converter lockup clutch is said to maximize fuel economy, which Dodge claims can reach 22 mpg. Dual front airbags and all-disc antilock brakes are standard, and an Integrated Acceleration Skid Control can brake the spinning wheels in low-traction situations. [FULL STORY]
SRT-4
A 205-hp turbocharged four-cylinder engine will propel Dodge’s high-performance Neon-based compact SRT-4 sedan. The new SRT brand is intended to stand for “ultimate interpretations of performance,” according to Dodge.
Judging by the yellow sedan that appeared at Detroit’s auto show in January 2002, the Neon SRT-4 will look essentially like a regular Neon but will come with some sporty touches to set the two models apart.
The high-performance program’s Viper SRT-10 goes on sale first, followed early in 2003 by the SRT-4. Apart from the Viper model, the SRT-4 will be the fastest car in Dodge’s lineup. These new SRT models are expected to “establish an aspirational and performance image for Dodge,” says Jim Schroer, executive vice president of sales and marketing for Dodge. [FULL STORY]
Ram 2500/3500
Since Dodge redesigned its light-duty Ram 1500 series for the 2002 model year, the heavy-duty 2500/3500 models couldn’t be far behind. Both were unveiled at the Chicago Auto Show in February 2002, and Dodge calls them the toughest, most powerful heavy-duty pickups ever.
An all-new 5.7-liter Hemi V-8 that produces 345 hp is among the engine choices. Once almost synonymous with muscle cars, the Hemi-type engine disappeared from Chrysler and Dodge vehicles long ago, but a modern version is now making a comeback in trucks. Heavy-duty models also boast the most powerful diesel engine choice in the heavy-duty segment; it’s rated at 305 hp and 555 pounds-feet of torque. An 8.0-liter V-10 also remains available.
Big-rig styling follows the theme set by the Ram 1500. Dodge says both the 2500 and 3500 series are new from the grille to the tailgate. New Laramie models replace the prior SLT Plus, and two-wheel-drive trucks get new rack-and-pinion steering. [2500 FULL STORY] [3500 FULL STORY]
Viper SRT-10
Scheduled to go on sale in the fall of 2002, the hot Viper SRT-10 packs a 500-hp, 8.3-liter V-10 engine that generates 500 pounds-feet of torque. That almost makes the previous, smaller V-10 engine’s 450 hp sound feeble. A six-speed-manual transmission sends all that force to the Viper SRT-10’s 19-inch back tires.
A racing-style chassis incorporates a fully independent suspension and massive brakes. Dodge says the new Viper is lighter and faster than its predecessor, which debuted as a 1992 model, and continues to represent serious, traditional American muscle. As defined by Dodge, that means a big engine and a minimum of frills — though Vipers can be equipped with a number of comfort and convenience features these days.
Unlike the pre-2003 Viper, which came in closed-coupe and roadster forms, the 2003 model will be a two-passenger convertible. It’s a true convertible, which should please owners who have struggled with the soft-tops on earlier Vipers. Styling cues were taken from the GTS/R concept car, while swept-back fenders and deep-cut side scallops hark back to the original Viper. [FULL STORY]
Caravan/Grand Caravan
Dodge’s regular-length Caravan and extended-size Grand Caravan continue to rank as the most popular minivans on the market, even though sales declined during 2001. For 2003, minivans can be equipped with a new power sunroof, a factory-installed DVD-based entertainment system and power-adjustable pedals.
Dodge’s minivans got an evolutionary restyling for the 2001 model year with additions such as the industry’s first power-operated rear liftgate. Power sliding doors are available on both sides. A four-cylinder engine is standard in the Caravan, and the Grand Caravan gets a 180-hp, 3.3-liter V-6. Top models get a 215-hp, 3.8-liter V-8 power plant.[CARAVAN FULL STORY] [GRAND CARAVAN FULL STORY]
Dakota
A new Stampede Package is available for 2003 versions of Dodge’s compact Dakota pickup truck. Offered on regular and Club Cab Sport models, the option group includes ground-effect side moldings, wheel flares and a rear stabilizer bar. All-disc brakes are now standard for four-wheel-drive (4WD) Quad Cab and performance-oriented R/T (road/track) models.
Four engines are available for the Dakota: a four-cylinder, a V-6 and a pair of V-8s. For the 4.7-liter V-8 engine, Dodge now offers a five-speed-automatic transmission with a dual-ratio second gear. The other power plants can be equipped with a four-speed-automatic or five-speed-manual transmission. [FULL STORY]
Durango
Introduced for the 1998 model year, Dodge’s sport utility vehicle is based on the Dakota pickup. The lineup even includes a sporty R/T (road/track) edition. All-disc brakes and 16-inch cast-aluminum wheels are standard for 2003. An in-dash six-CD changer is newly available.
The Durango comes with a choice of 4.7-liter or 5.9-liter V-8 engines; both team with an automatic transmission. With the smaller engine, the automatic now incorporates a second overdrive ratio. RWD and 4WD models are available. Side curtain-type airbags and a DVD-based rear-seat entertainment system are optional. The lineup includes a value-priced SXT, SLT, SLT Plus and sporty R/T editions. [FULL STORY]
Intrepid
Related to the Chrysler Concorde, Dodge’s full-size, FWD Intrepid sedans are ready for another season. Powertrain alterations highlighted the Intrepid news in 2002. For 2003, a new SXT option features the high-output, 244-hp, 3.5-liter V-6 engine that was previously found in the sporty R/T, which has been discontinued.
The Intrepid lineup starts with a value-priced SE sedan that comes equipped with a 200-hp, 2.7-liter V-6 engine; the step-up ES is offered with the same engine or a 234-hp, 3.5-liter V-6. The Intrepid’s antilock braking system includes electronic brake-force distribution (EBD). The Intrepid and Concorde were last redesigned for the 1998 model year.[FULL STORY]
Neon
A face-lift of Dodge’s smallest passenger car for 2003 includes new front and rear fascias, headlights and taillights. A new steering wheel features an aluminum Dodge medallion. The wheels and wheel covers are new, and a six-CD changer is now available in upper-end models. The compact four-door Neon sedan comes in SE, SXT and sporty R/T trim levels, along with the new high-performance SRT-4.
Either a four-speed automatic or a five-speed manual gearbox can be installed. A 132-hp four-cylinder engine powers most Neons, but a 150-hp version goes into the R/T. Side-impact airbags and antilock brakes are optional. [FULL STORY]
Ram 1500
Light-duty versions of Dodge’s full-size, boldly styled 1500 series pickup trucks earned a substantial redesign for the 2002 model year. Two new option groups are available for 2003: an Off-Road edition with 17-inch all-terrain tires and a no-frills Work Special package, which has gray bumpers, grille and wheels. During the 2003 model year, a Laramie model will replace the existing SLT Plus.
Depending on the trim level, Rams have two different front-end looks. The Ram’s huge grille is reminiscent of the one used on the Power Ram concept vehicle; its subtle hood bulge helps set a muscular tone. Sport and SLT trim levels are available. Quad Cab Ram pickups have four, full front-hinged doors.
The standard engine is a 215-hp, 3.7-liter V-6, which is borrowed from Jeep. Optional power plants include a 240-hp, 4.7-liter V-8 and a 245-hp, 5.9-liter V-8. Dodge’s V-10 and diesel engines are limited to the heavy-duty 2500 and 3500 Ram series, which have been restyled to follow the lead of the 1500 pickups. Side curtain-type airbags that are mounted in the roof and adjustable pedals are optional. [FULL STORY]
Stratus Coupe
Dodge has given its compact Stratus coupe a muscular face-lift, including new front and rear fascias, grille, headlights, taillights, fog lamps and side sill moldings. The hood and trunk lid are new, and the grille is bolder. New 17-inch aluminum wheels go on the R/T edition. White gauges are featured on the new instrument panel, and a new automatic-dimming mirror incorporates a compass and temperature display.
Unlike Stratus sedans, which are larger and made in Michigan, the coupe is produced in Illinois at a plant that also turns out Mitsubishi Galants. Chrysler offers an equivalent coupe under the Sebring badge. All Sebrings were redesigned for the 2001 model year.
Stratus coupes can have a four-cylinder or V-6 engine and either a four-speed automatic or a five-speed-manual transmission. Sport-minded shoppers can choose a limited-production Stratus R/T coupe, with a rear spoiler, specially tuned suspension and 17-inch tires. A new SXT package adds remote keyless entry and 16-inch aluminum wheels to the SE coupe. [FULL STORY]
Stratus Sedan
Dodge has dropped the SE Plus version of its midsize Sebring sedan for 2003 but added a value-priced SXT model. The lineup also includes SE, ES and sporty R/T sedans.
Sedan models were created by DaimlerChrysler and are manufactured in Michigan, while the compact Stratus coupes are manufactured in Illinois at a Mitsubishi plant. All Sebrings were redesigned for the 2001 model year. The Chrysler division also offers an equivalent Sebring sedan and a convertible, but Dodge has no soft-top model.
Stratus sedans come with a four-cylinder or V-6 engine, but both differ from those installed in the Stratus coupes. A four-speed automatic is the sole transmission, except for the R/T, which uses a five-speed-manual gearbox. [FULL STORY]
Ram Van/Wagon
Dodge’s full-size vans are entering their final season on the market. The company announced in 2000 that no more Ram Vans would be manufactured. The full-size models then earned a reprieve but only into the 2003 model year.
When they do expire, a replacement is unlikely. The design of Dodge’s cargo van and passenger wagon date back to 1971. Both earned styling and mechanical updates over the years.[RAM VAN 1500 FULL STORY] [RAM VAN 2500 FULL STORY] [RAM VAN 3500 FULL STORY]
Dodge Overview
A hot new Viper SRT-10 is the big news for Dodge for the 2003 model year. As if more power was needed from the traditional-styled coupe and roadster, the new V-10 engine has earned a boost to 500 horsepower.
Also on the performance side of the aisle, Dodge is launching an SRT-4 edition of its compact Neon sedan. An SRT-10 version of its Ram pickup truck is also in the works. If that’s not intense enough, the 500-hp Ram SRT-10 appeared at Detroit’s North American International Auto Show in January 2002 and is slated for production. But that won’t happen until late 2003. The SRT vehicles are part of a new high-performance program called Performance Vehicle Operations (PVO), which Dodge announced at Detroit’s 2002 auto show.
On a tamer note, Dodge has also redesigned its heavy-duty Ram 2500/3500 pickups, following the lead of the restyling done last year on the lighter-duty Ram 1500 series. At Detroit’s 2003 auto show, the automaker introduced a new Sprinter full-size van that is meant to replace the Ram Van series, which will end production after the 2003 model year.
In the spring of 2002, DaimlerChrysler announced that new products must be capable of yielding sales of 100,000 units per year or they’ll be abandoned before development begins. Therefore, a number of concept cars that might otherwise have been considered for production are likely to be extinguished. That list likely includes the M80 concept pickup seen at Detroit’s auto show in January 2002.
Car and truck sales both fell during 2001, according to Automotive News. A total of 329,053 passenger cars were sold, which represents a decrease of 10.6 percent; trucks and vans dipped by 14.8 percent to 926,710 units.
DaimlerChrysler continues to position Dodge as its sporty performance division. Even so, the most popular Dodge is the Caravan — still the best-selling minivan in the business even after a redesign for 2001. When added together, Chrysler and Dodge minivans hold a 40-percent share of the minivan market, with 430,383 units sold in the United States during 2001, according to Automotive News.
Full-size sedans from Chrysler and Dodge are likely to be redesigned and gain rear-wheel drive (RWD) for the 2004 model year. Front-wheel drive (FWD) has been the configuration used on all of the company’s passenger cars since 1990.
Reported by Jim Flammang for cars.com
REBATES: Customer Incentives
YOUNG DRIVERS: Student Buyer Programs
Sprinter
Originally badged as a Freightliner model, the Sprinter is intended mainly for commercial owners and comes in cargo and passenger versions, and a choice of three wheelbases. Sprinters are available with either a standard 64-inch roof height or in high-roof form that provides 73 inches of walk-through height. A large sliding door is installed on the right side, and one for the left side is also available.
Up to 10 occupants can fit inside the passenger-carrying Sprinter. Two people sit up front and as many as three more rows of seats may be installed in the rear. Tempmatik air conditioning, which automatically controls cabin temperature, is standard, and a second air conditioner is available for passenger models.
A Mercedes-Benz 2.7-liter five-cylinder CDI (common rail direct injection) turbo-diesel engine produces 154 hp and 243 pounds-feet of torque. A torque-converter lockup clutch is said to maximize fuel economy, which Dodge claims can reach 22 mpg. Dual front airbags and all-disc antilock brakes are standard, and an Integrated Acceleration Skid Control can brake the spinning wheels in low-traction situations. [FULL STORY]
SRT-4
A 205-hp turbocharged four-cylinder engine will propel Dodge’s high-performance Neon-based compact SRT-4 sedan. The new SRT brand is intended to stand for “ultimate interpretations of performance,” according to Dodge.
Judging by the yellow sedan that appeared at Detroit’s auto show in January 2002, the Neon SRT-4 will look essentially like a regular Neon but will come with some sporty touches to set the two models apart.
The high-performance program’s Viper SRT-10 goes on sale first, followed early in 2003 by the SRT-4. Apart from the Viper model, the SRT-4 will be the fastest car in Dodge’s lineup. These new SRT models are expected to “establish an aspirational and performance image for Dodge,” says Jim Schroer, executive vice president of sales and marketing for Dodge. [FULL STORY]
Ram 2500/3500
Since Dodge redesigned its light-duty Ram 1500 series for the 2002 model year, the heavy-duty 2500/3500 models couldn’t be far behind. Both were unveiled at the Chicago Auto Show in February 2002, and Dodge calls them the toughest, most powerful heavy-duty pickups ever.
An all-new 5.7-liter Hemi V-8 that produces 345 hp is among the engine choices. Once almost synonymous with muscle cars, the Hemi-type engine disappeared from Chrysler and Dodge vehicles long ago, but a modern version is now making a comeback in trucks. Heavy-duty models also boast the most powerful diesel engine choice in the heavy-duty segment; it’s rated at 305 hp and 555 pounds-feet of torque. An 8.0-liter V-10 also remains available.
Big-rig styling follows the theme set by the Ram 1500. Dodge says both the 2500 and 3500 series are new from the grille to the tailgate. New Laramie models replace the prior SLT Plus, and two-wheel-drive trucks get new rack-and-pinion steering. [2500 FULL STORY] [3500 FULL STORY]
Viper SRT-10
Scheduled to go on sale in the fall of 2002, the hot Viper SRT-10 packs a 500-hp, 8.3-liter V-10 engine that generates 500 pounds-feet of torque. That almost makes the previous, smaller V-10 engine’s 450 hp sound feeble. A six-speed-manual transmission sends all that force to the Viper SRT-10’s 19-inch back tires.
A racing-style chassis incorporates a fully independent suspension and massive brakes. Dodge says the new Viper is lighter and faster than its predecessor, which debuted as a 1992 model, and continues to represent serious, traditional American muscle. As defined by Dodge, that means a big engine and a minimum of frills — though Vipers can be equipped with a number of comfort and convenience features these days.
Unlike the pre-2003 Viper, which came in closed-coupe and roadster forms, the 2003 model will be a two-passenger convertible. It’s a true convertible, which should please owners who have struggled with the soft-tops on earlier Vipers. Styling cues were taken from the GTS/R concept car, while swept-back fenders and deep-cut side scallops hark back to the original Viper. [FULL STORY]
Caravan/Grand Caravan
Dodge’s regular-length Caravan and extended-size Grand Caravan continue to rank as the most popular minivans on the market, even though sales declined during 2001. For 2003, minivans can be equipped with a new power sunroof, a factory-installed DVD-based entertainment system and power-adjustable pedals.
Dodge’s minivans got an evolutionary restyling for the 2001 model year with additions such as the industry’s first power-operated rear liftgate. Power sliding doors are available on both sides. A four-cylinder engine is standard in the Caravan, and the Grand Caravan gets a 180-hp, 3.3-liter V-6. Top models get a 215-hp, 3.8-liter V-8 power plant.[CARAVAN FULL STORY] [GRAND CARAVAN FULL STORY]
Dakota
A new Stampede Package is available for 2003 versions of Dodge’s compact Dakota pickup truck. Offered on regular and Club Cab Sport models, the option group includes ground-effect side moldings, wheel flares and a rear stabilizer bar. All-disc brakes are now standard for four-wheel-drive (4WD) Quad Cab and performance-oriented R/T (road/track) models.
Four engines are available for the Dakota: a four-cylinder, a V-6 and a pair of V-8s. For the 4.7-liter V-8 engine, Dodge now offers a five-speed-automatic transmission with a dual-ratio second gear. The other power plants can be equipped with a four-speed-automatic or five-speed-manual transmission. [FULL STORY]
Durango
Introduced for the 1998 model year, Dodge’s sport utility vehicle is based on the Dakota pickup. The lineup even includes a sporty R/T (road/track) edition. All-disc brakes and 16-inch cast-aluminum wheels are standard for 2003. An in-dash six-CD changer is newly available.
The Durango comes with a choice of 4.7-liter or 5.9-liter V-8 engines; both team with an automatic transmission. With the smaller engine, the automatic now incorporates a second overdrive ratio. RWD and 4WD models are available. Side curtain-type airbags and a DVD-based rear-seat entertainment system are optional. The lineup includes a value-priced SXT, SLT, SLT Plus and sporty R/T editions. [FULL STORY]
Intrepid
Related to the Chrysler Concorde, Dodge’s full-size, FWD Intrepid sedans are ready for another season. Powertrain alterations highlighted the Intrepid news in 2002. For 2003, a new SXT option features the high-output, 244-hp, 3.5-liter V-6 engine that was previously found in the sporty R/T, which has been discontinued.
The Intrepid lineup starts with a value-priced SE sedan that comes equipped with a 200-hp, 2.7-liter V-6 engine; the step-up ES is offered with the same engine or a 234-hp, 3.5-liter V-6. The Intrepid’s antilock braking system includes electronic brake-force distribution (EBD). The Intrepid and Concorde were last redesigned for the 1998 model year.[FULL STORY]
Neon
A face-lift of Dodge’s smallest passenger car for 2003 includes new front and rear fascias, headlights and taillights. A new steering wheel features an aluminum Dodge medallion. The wheels and wheel covers are new, and a six-CD changer is now available in upper-end models. The compact four-door Neon sedan comes in SE, SXT and sporty R/T trim levels, along with the new high-performance SRT-4.
Either a four-speed automatic or a five-speed manual gearbox can be installed. A 132-hp four-cylinder engine powers most Neons, but a 150-hp version goes into the R/T. Side-impact airbags and antilock brakes are optional. [FULL STORY]
Ram 1500
Light-duty versions of Dodge’s full-size, boldly styled 1500 series pickup trucks earned a substantial redesign for the 2002 model year. Two new option groups are available for 2003: an Off-Road edition with 17-inch all-terrain tires and a no-frills Work Special package, which has gray bumpers, grille and wheels. During the 2003 model year, a Laramie model will replace the existing SLT Plus.
Depending on the trim level, Rams have two different front-end looks. The Ram’s huge grille is reminiscent of the one used on the Power Ram concept vehicle; its subtle hood bulge helps set a muscular tone. Sport and SLT trim levels are available. Quad Cab Ram pickups have four, full front-hinged doors.
The standard engine is a 215-hp, 3.7-liter V-6, which is borrowed from Jeep. Optional power plants include a 240-hp, 4.7-liter V-8 and a 245-hp, 5.9-liter V-8. Dodge’s V-10 and diesel engines are limited to the heavy-duty 2500 and 3500 Ram series, which have been restyled to follow the lead of the 1500 pickups. Side curtain-type airbags that are mounted in the roof and adjustable pedals are optional. [FULL STORY]
Stratus Coupe
Dodge has given its compact Stratus coupe a muscular face-lift, including new front and rear fascias, grille, headlights, taillights, fog lamps and side sill moldings. The hood and trunk lid are new, and the grille is bolder. New 17-inch aluminum wheels go on the R/T edition. White gauges are featured on the new instrument panel, and a new automatic-dimming mirror incorporates a compass and temperature display.
Unlike Stratus sedans, which are larger and made in Michigan, the coupe is produced in Illinois at a plant that also turns out Mitsubishi Galants. Chrysler offers an equivalent coupe under the Sebring badge. All Sebrings were redesigned for the 2001 model year.
Stratus coupes can have a four-cylinder or V-6 engine and either a four-speed automatic or a five-speed-manual transmission. Sport-minded shoppers can choose a limited-production Stratus R/T coupe, with a rear spoiler, specially tuned suspension and 17-inch tires. A new SXT package adds remote keyless entry and 16-inch aluminum wheels to the SE coupe. [FULL STORY]
Stratus Sedan
Dodge has dropped the SE Plus version of its midsize Sebring sedan for 2003 but added a value-priced SXT model. The lineup also includes SE, ES and sporty R/T sedans.
Sedan models were created by DaimlerChrysler and are manufactured in Michigan, while the compact Stratus coupes are manufactured in Illinois at a Mitsubishi plant. All Sebrings were redesigned for the 2001 model year. The Chrysler division also offers an equivalent Sebring sedan and a convertible, but Dodge has no soft-top model.
Stratus sedans come with a four-cylinder or V-6 engine, but both differ from those installed in the Stratus coupes. A four-speed automatic is the sole transmission, except for the R/T, which uses a five-speed-manual gearbox. [FULL STORY]
Ram Van/Wagon
Dodge’s full-size vans are entering their final season on the market. The company announced in 2000 that no more Ram Vans would be manufactured. The full-size models then earned a reprieve but only into the 2003 model year.
When they do expire, a replacement is unlikely. The design of Dodge’s cargo van and passenger wagon date back to 1971. Both earned styling and mechanical updates over the years.[RAM VAN 1500 FULL STORY] [RAM VAN 2500 FULL STORY] [RAM VAN 3500 FULL STORY]
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