05-01-19

Color Psychology and What Your Car Says About You

Car Colors at Nissan of Van Nuys

Have you ever thought about what your car says about you? It turns out, the color of your car has a lot to say about your personality. And it may not be what you think.

The color of your vehicle represents what is known as a 'psychological shortcut'. It shapes how you think you want the outside world to think about you. Especially if you spend a lot of time on the road.

So, does your personality match the color of the car you're driving? Keep reading to find out which car color fits you best according to car color psychology.

What Your Car Says About You According to Color

What your car color says about you might seem kind of like a horoscope. You can take it with a grain of salt but the truth is that everything from age and gender to cultural differences and even the type of car can change the meaning of car color. If you love your car and your personality doesn't match, that's okay.

Black

Black is the most popular car color for luxury models but also popular among the middle class. When you think of black you might think of black-tie events and sophistication. And that's just what you get with a black car.

Driving a black car indicates that you prefer to exude excellence and power in yourself. You may also desire more depth in your life. Black also suggests strong primal instincts.

White

White vehicles represent good taste and elegance. They may also be an indicator of an extremely organized and efficient individual. These people are also considered to be honest and pure.

White has become less common but it is gaining in popularity with the arrival of technology infused stock. White is often associated with modern, simplistic, and even futuristic devices.

Gray

Driving a gray vehicle indicates to the world that you don't prefer to stand out. These people are more about the status quo than they are about status themselves. Gray is also a color that represents compromise and caution.

An added benefit to driving a gray car is that it won't get as dirty as other colors. At least you won't be able to see the dirt as well.

Silver

You may not think there is much of a difference between gray and silver, but there is! Silver says high-class for those that aren't afraid to show their status. This color may also indicate that you are practical and responsible but still know how to enjoy innovative things in life.

Silver is also a good color for hiding dirt.

Green

Green is a serious color. It says conventional and effortless. Driving a green car indicates that you have a strong sense of self and you don't really care what other people think about you.

Green is also associated with nature lovers and those that are more environmentally friendly.

Blue

Blue represents practicality and stability. People that drive blue vehicles are often extremely comfortable in their own skin. They are honest and giving.

Blue also reflects happiness indicating that the driver is down to earth. Most drivers of blue cars are thought to be helpful and reliable.

Yellow/Gold

Yellow and gold are bright and cheery colors that represent happiness and a carefree attitude. Yellow car drivers are considered wise and imaginative with a good sense of humor.

Many young people are drawn to yellow although it only makes up about 2% of all car colors.

Brown/Beige

Brown and beige exude longevity. A brown or beige car buyer will likely keep their car until it runs out of life. This may also speak for how an individual enjoys saving money.

Brown and beige also represent a down to earth individual that often does their part to help the environment.

Orange

While orange is one of the least favorite car colors among new car buyers in the United States, it is the ONLY color for those that are proud to save money. It also says that you don't take much stock in pampering yourself.

Red

If you're a confident person that seeks attention, then you need a red car. Alternatively, if you are practical and conventional, this is also the right color car for you. Red cars have been noted as some of the safest on America's roadways.

A red vehicle tells the world that you are an extrovert with a zest for life. You are probably ambitious and determined in everything you do.

Bright or Neon Colors

Colors like bright or lime green, orange, and even radical blues, while sparse, do exist for those unconventional drivers. These drivers are individualistic, unique, and value their self-expression. You will find bright or neon cars in the hands of open-minded people that love to seek adventure and new life experiences.

Final Thoughts

Now that you know what your car says about you, you can make the right decision when it comes time to buy a new one. Remember, color psychology represents your self-expression. Use it wisely.

One thing to keep in mind if you ever plan to sell or trade your car, silver retains better value than any other car color. It can be noted here that women are more likely to be attracted to silver cars. Men are more likely to prefer red.

When you're ready to see what's new, check out our inventory and contact us with your questions. We're happy to help you find the perfect ride.

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04-16-19

The Nissan Leaf Plus: The Plus-Sized Guide to the New Model

Nissan Leaf Plus at Nissan of Van Nuys

Nissan has produced one of the world's best-selling electric vehicles with the Leaf. It introduced a respectable 151-mile range to hundreds of thousands of new drivers. For many people, that was plenty to cover commutes and decent road trips.

For 2019, Nissan is adding a 'Plus' to their mileage on the Leaf. The new Nissan Leaf Plus is adding a larger 62kw-hr battery, bringing it to 226 miles of range. The 200-plus mile club is where Tesla held onto the crown for so long.

Now, we have a race, with the Leaf. Nissan has a car that is more accessible, more affordable, and, potentially, more reliable. More on that last bit later, for now, let's see what the Plus has to offer.

Behind the Wheel

If you have never driven in a Leaf or similar all-EV vehicle, it's hard to describe without seeming dramatic. In terms of cabin noise and handling, it's like driving a luxury car. There's nothing but the sound of tires on pavement.

The acceleration is peppier than any other stock sedan. The 62kW electric engine delivers loads of torque, with Nissan quoting the Leaf Plus at 0-60 in 7 seconds. It seems that most reviewers have topped out at roughly 7.5, but who cares?

This isn't a racecar, it's an extremely efficient and capable electric communter car. The handling is tight, thanks to the weight being centered from the new battery. You can drive it in e-Pedal mode and extend your 226-mile range, as we saw in the previous generation.

Leaf, Take the Wheel

It will take some getting used to, as you only drive with one pedal, as soon as you lift your foot off the accelerator, it starts to slow you down. This makes start-and-stop traffic your proverbial charging station. Of course, the Nissan Leaf Plus also has Sport mode to unlock more torque and faster speeds.

We found that driving in Eco Mode way less annoying than some other EV/Hybrid vehicles. It doesn't turn the car into a slower, dead-weight feel, even with the Eco-Pedal.

Pro Pilot Assist is another respectable feature of the Leaf Plus. It's not only a convenience having smart, adaptive cruise control, but it's also smart and safe. Lane-centering assist and emergency braking react expertly to otherwise unaware drivers.

Better Battery

We mentioned the larger battery, but it's worth mentioning that the Leaf Plus has a faster battery charge. Its fast-charge rate takes a mere 45 minutes to get you to 80 percent full. That's a full 15 minutes quicker than the previous battery.

The battery also discharges faster, which is why Nissan was able to improve the horsepower from 147 to 214. To sweeten this new battery upgrade, Nissan owners and leasees get two years of free charging with EVGo. Nissan themselves have an additional network of charges that you can use free for three years.

The No Charge to Charge (NCTC) program spans over 2,194 fast-charge locations. The Plus also comes with a portable L1/L2 charger, which saves you the hassle of installing one in your garage.

Exterior

Nissan kept things safe with the Nissan Leaf Plus. The average person won't spot any differences, but you will find a few changes. The additional "Plus" decals are found on the rear hatch, with a small one under the charger port.

The front bumper has a new blue tint coloring to match the rear. That's about it, besides a slightly higher clearance, due to the added weight of the new battery. That's right, she's riding about 300 pounds heavier than the standard Leaf.

Interior

Leaf owners looking to upgrade will like the new infotainment system. Nissan upgraded it to 8 inches with a better, fully-featured system. You're getting more intuitive icons on the interface, customizable features, and a GPS map that you can resize.

This infotainment system is one of the best on the market. Android Auto and Apple Play are, of course, standard. What's more, you can use your phone to control whatever you need in your car like a remote control.

Use it to monitor car data, adjust settings, and program it on the fly. It even works with wearables and virtual assistants. The Leaf Plus eclipses the Model 3 in some areas onboard tech.

Nissan Leaf Plus Cost

The Leaf Plus comes in three trims, as with the original: S, SV, and SL. You're going to pay roughly $6,000-6,500 more than the standard Leaf's counterpart. The base trim starts at $37,445, which is $6560 more. The SV PLUS is $6,020 more at $39,405, while the premium SL trim MSRP is $43,445, $6350 more than the standard Leaf.

While that may sound like a lot of money for an EV, the only two comparable models on the market are the Hyundai Kona and Chevy Bolt. They are locked in at the same price points. If you want that 200+ mile range, then you're going to have to budget accordingly.

In fact, Nissan knows it's leading the pack, as they look to introduce eight more electric vehicles by 2022. If the Leaf Plus is still too small, hold your wallet, they have a crossover SUV coming in EV flavor by 2022.

Get the New Leaf Plus Today

It's hard not getting excited about the Nissan Leaf Plus. It checks a lot of boxes, especially for those waiting on the $30-35k Model 3 to become a reality. We can't even recommend Teslas, even if you have the money for the simple fact that they have huge reliability issues.

Buying a Nissan means you're getting a car with more dealership coverage, an established history, and integrity. You can buy a new Nissan Leaf today. You can get fast, easy financing of your new Leaf Plus at Nissan of Van Nuys. Fill out a finance application and you'll get multiple financing options to choose from.

Picture yourself never filling up at the pump again. Now, watch it become a reality at Van Nuys!

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04-01-19

Small Businesses Rejoice for the 2019 Nissan NV Cargo Van

Nissan NV Cargo Van at Nissan of Van Nuys

There's more than reason small businesses are rejoicing over the 2019 Nissan NV Cargo Van.

As a small business owner with one eye on the bottom line, you'll like the NV's starting price of around $29,000, the 5 year, 100,000 mile bumper-to-bumper warranty, and that the 2018 Nissan NV Cargo was awarded the Edmunds Best Retained Value, beating out rivals like the Mercedes Benz Metris, Ram Promaster, and Ford Transit Van.

If you're a plumber or electrician hauling heavy materials and equipment, you'll also appreciate the 324 feet of customizable cargo space and the V6 and V8 engines, delivering up to 387 pounds of pulling power.

It's a start, but there's a whole lot more.

Keep reading to find out more about the benefits to small businesses that own the Nissan NV Cargo Van.

The Nissan NV Cargo Van Fleet

The NV Cargo comes in three models with three grade levels. Depending on which option you choose this translates to a wide range of vehicles powered at the base end by a 4.0 liter V6 engine, and at the high end by the more powerful 5.6 liter V8.

The bigger engine features Ward's best-in-class 7-speed, 375 horsepower and 387 pounds of torque. If you're regularly moving heavy loads, or you just need to get places quickly, you may want that extra pulling power.

Fully equipped, the NV can take on cargo loads up toward 4,000 lbs, and pull up to 9400 lbs. That's more than 1000 lbs over competitors in the segment including the Mercedes Metris and Sprinter vans, the Ford Transit and the Transit Connect.

That Nissan is prepared to offer the extended warranty on a vehicle built to tackle these kinds of loads is a reflection of the confidence they have in their product.

The same can't be said of the NV's competition. The GMC Savana, Chevy Express, and Ram Promaster all stop coverage at 3 years or 36,000 miles, a full 2 years or 64,000 miles less than the NV. That's a lot to consider for a business owner thinking for the long term.

Customizable Cargo Space

Each model is available with the standard roof, and there's a high roof option on the two upper models should you need extra space, the only vehicle with this option in Ward's Light Vehicle Segment.

The high roof is 21 inches over the standard with 76.9 inches of total headroom, enough room to set up a workspace in the back or invite some medium height NBA players over for drinks.

Even without the high roof, the Nissan NV Cargo is among the tallest in its class and features an impressive 234 cubic feet of cargo space, much of it customizable to your particular needs.

The long cargo floor and near-vertical side walls give enough space between the flat-top wheel-well housing to accommodate sheets of 8 x 4 paneling or wall board. Six floor-mounted D rings in the back let you safely tie down extra loads for when you're on the move.

There's also a full-length panel on the inside to help reduce damage to the outside skin during loading and unloading.

The Nissan NV Cargo is nothing if not flexible, with the design team sage enough to understand they know less than you about how to best optimize your truck's set-up.

The NV is fitted with 57 attachment points enabling you to more easily install aftermarket modifications and customization equipment.

There are 36 attachment points on the sides for shelving, 10 on the ceiling where you could mount an interior ladder or utility rack, and 11 at the bulkhead position separating the cabin.

This means you won't have to go drilling the NV full of holes to get it fitted out right. No holes, no rusting.

The cargo area also features extensive area lighting and power outlets including a 3-prong 120-volt outlet located in the center console and vertical support pillar.

Keeping Your Business Mobile

Your business shouldn't suffer interruptions or missed opportunities while you're on the road.

With much of your time likely spent in and around the vehicle, you want it to function as much as a mobile office as it does materials carrier. Time saved during the day means you'll have more time at home with family and friends later.

The NV is no slouch when it comes to innovative storage design and technology features.

Blue-tooth hands-free phone calls and text messaging come standard, as does a USB connection port to interface with your iPod and other compatible mobile devices.

Every model across the range is fitted with a back-up camera and 5" color display audio system.

The high roof models offer more storage options in an overhead console that's big enough for legal size binders, as well as a lockable center console that can also be removed, that can fit hanging files and mobile devices up to the size of a laptop computer.

The console also includes a computer or mobile phone charging port, which also converts to a more usable work surface.

Beneath the driver's seat there's an additional storage drawer for paperwork, tools or other items that you might need close at hand.

The front passenger seat folds up to double as a convenient work desk.

Optional upgrade packages can get you various combinations of Sirius Radio, navigation and mobile apps with a 5.8 touch screen, back door glass, and vinyl upholstery.

Practical and Flexible Workhorse

What small businesses look for in a vehicle is a cost-efficient, value-driven workhorse that can tough it out through years of hauling equipment and materials.

One that lets you keep your business running while you're on the road.

The Nissan NV Cargo delivers on all counts. Motortrend's Ultimate Buyer's Guide described it as "about as practical and flexible as you can get."

But you don't have to take our word for it.

Come down for a test drive and see for yourself. Make an appointment or just drop in. We're located on the corner of Van Nuys and Clark, and open 9:00 am to 10:00 pm 7 days a week.

Better yet, at Nissan of Van Nuys we have a full range of Nissan NV Cargo Vans to choose from. We'll help you pick one out.

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03-16-19

35 Cars with The Best MPG in 2019

35 Cars with The Best MPG in 2019

Best-MPG-Vehicles-Nissan-of-Van-Nuys-CA

Nissan

Leaf - 124/99 MPG (equivalent)

Nissan LEAF at Nissan of Van Nuys.

A completely battery powered car with a kick, the Nissan Leaf goes the distance without having to visit the pump.  With well over 100-mile range on a full charge, the leaf doesn’t leave much to be desired. And the world’s best selling electric car keeps getting better with its model e+, which offers close to 200hp with a range of 226 miles (coming to the US this spring).

Rogue Hybrid - 35/33 MPG

Nissan Rogue in Van Nuys, CA

With a sizeable battery and regenerative braking, the Rogue combines efficiency with style in the compact SUV category. It offers a smooth ride, spacious cabin, and one of the best fuel economies in its class.

Versa - 39/31 MPG

Nissan Versa at Nissan of Van Nuys

Available as a sedan and hatchback, the Versa strikes a balance between space and value. With good cargo and passenger room for its class, it handles turns without a hitch. Affordable as it is stylish, the Versa comes in at just above $12,000.

Sentra - 37/29 MPG

Nissan Sentra at Nissan of Van Nuys

With its stylish and sporty design, detailed interior, and plenty of cargo room, it’s easy to see why the Sentra is one of Nissan’s best selling models. A modest engine doesn’t mean performance suffers as its 1.8L offers a punch that Nissan is known for.

Altima - 39/28 MPG

Nissan Altima at Nissan of Van Nuys

Built with high strength steel and aluminum, the Altima continues to be the lightest midsize sedan in its class. Now with all-wheel drive and refined steering, the new model promises a driving experience to remember. The standard 2.5L offers plenty of punch while offering top fuel efficiency.

 

Toyota

Mirai - 66/66 MPG (equivalent)

Toyota Mirai at Nissan of Van Nuys

As a mid-size hydrogen fuel cell car, it’s the first of its kind. It’s hydrogen-powered which means it uses the reaction between hydrogen and air to produce electricity leaving only water to waste. Averaging an equivalent 66mpg combined with fuel stipends up to $15,000 for the first 3 years, it’s a car that’s both cutting edge and environmentally friendly.

*Note: Only sold and leased in California where hydrogen fueling stations exist.

Prius - 54/50 MPG

For the past decade, the Prius has led the way for fuel-efficient cars.  The unmistaken design has since been reworked and expanded. In addition to the standard line of Priuses, there exists a more affordable Prius-C and a range extending Prius Prime.  All said, this model brings the reliability of Toyota with the remarkable fuel efficiency that it’s always been known for.

Camry Hybrid - 50/48 MPG

The king of the midsize has gotten even better. Long known for its reliability and lively powertrain, the Camry doesn’t disappoint when it comes to the fuel efficiency of its hybrid model.  With award-winning design and sleek interior, it’s the envy of its class.

Avalon Hybrid - 44/43 MPG

The luxury model of its make takes a leap forward with a hybrid option. A smooth ride and a roomy interior make the Avalon an attractive option for anyone looking for a large sedan. Its fuel economy boasts 18 mpg more than the non-hybrid version.

Yaris - 36/30 MPG

Formerly marketed as the Echo, the Yaris comes in both sedan and hatchback models. Attractive as it is nimble, the interior comes with plenty of standard features. A perfect car for commuting to school or work while saving plenty at the pump.

 

Kia

Optima - 37/27 MPG

Kia Optima at Nissan of Van Nuys

The standard model comes feature-packed with impressive storage capacity and innovative safety technology. Its stunning design is complemented by a speedy engine and tight handling which makes the Optima one of the most well-rounded midsize sedans around.

Forte - 41/31 MPG

Ranked as the top compact car by U.S. News & World Report, the Forte excels in offering a spacious interior, superb safety technology, and great fuel economy. Get the feel of a mid-size without spending more.

Rio - 37/28 MPG

Fun-to-drive with nimble handling, the Rio makes for one of the most exciting subcompacts on the market. Rivaling the Honda Fit in all categories, its peppy engine and excellent reliability make the Rio a serious value for anyone looking at a smaller, more fuel-efficient car.

Niro - 52/49 MPG

As a gas-sipping hybrid, it’s best in class.  Beating out both the RAV4 and CR-V in fuel economy, the Niro blends head-turning design with sporty performance and great reliability.

Soul - 31/26 MPG

This distinct looking Kia happens to be one of the top-ranked compacts. The Soul has built a growing reputation for its exceptionally large cargo area and surprisingly upscale cabin for the price.  While it doesn’t have the best mpg for its size, the top safety ratings and generous warranty more than makeup for it.

 

Hyundai

Elantra - 40/32 MPG

Hyundai Elantra at Nissan of Van Nuys

Looks can be deceiving, but the Elantra compliments style with substance in this year’s model. Plenty of cabin room and onboard technology makes driving a joy. With four trims to choose from, you can find the right balance between performance and efficiency without sacrificing eye-catching design.

Ioniq - 59/57 MPG

Beating out its rival, the Prius, in fuel efficiency is no small task. Equipped with plenty of tech features and attractive styling, it leaves all others in its wake. With a spacious storage compartment and excellent drivability, the Ioniq is a hybrid to be remembered.

Accent - 38/28 MPG

A small car with big ambitions. The Accent offers a smooth and comfortable ride unusual for a car its size. The roomy interior coupled with an exceptionally long warranty shows why this car is a great value.

Sonata Hybrid - 46/40 MPG

Among the sea of midsize sedans, it’s tough to stand out. But the Sonata does just that with impressive standard features, luxurious interior, and excellent safety ratings.

Veloster - 34/28 MPG

A stand-out in the looks department, the Veloster backs it up with a high tech cabin, plenty of cargo space, and precision handling. This model offers five trims that provide extra amenities and performance as needed.

 

Honda

Fit - 40/33 MPG

Honda Fit at Nissan of Van Nuys

A hatchback that needs no introduction, the Fit is an all-around performer when it comes to fuel-efficient subcompacts. Sporting a number of standard features, generous interior, and plenty of cargo room, it’s no surprise that this nimble model leads the pack.

Insight - 55/49 MPG

Back with a vengeance, originally the first hybrid in its class, the Honda Insight brings the flare with impressive fuel efficiency.  In classic Honda style, this model is well-rounded with surprising pop off the line for a hybrid, conventional sedan styling, and a roomy interior.

Accord Hybrid - 48/48 MPG

This hybrid version brings all the features from the classic model such as responsive handling, excellent acceleration, spacious cabin, and plenty of technology to help keep you safe. A top mid-size just got better.

Civic - 42/32 MPG

A perennial contender for compact car supremacy, the Civic brings the same all-around performance of past models but with added features such as the Honda Sensing bundle that now comes standard.

HR-V - 34/28 MPG

A stylish subcompact with excellent fuel efficiency, the HR-V offers plenty of room inside. Nimble handling and a convenient infotainment system make this the perfect daily driver.

 

Ford

Focus - 40/30 MPG

Ford Focus in Van Nuys, CA

The Focus comes in both sedan and hatchback body styles. While known as a fun-to-drive and agile compact, it also has plenty of reliability.  And with a variety of powertrain options, you can boost your model however you’d like.

Fusion - 34/23 MPG

As Ford’s flagship sedan, the Fusion exudes class with an elegant interior, tight handling, and a comfortable ride. Added safety features and plenty of trim options make it a contender in an already loaded mid-size class.

EcoSport - 29/27 MPG

As a subcompact SUV with full-size aspirations, the EcoSport delivers with plenty of cargo room, excellent driving height, and balanced handling. A comfortable ride and impressive towing capacity make it hard to pass up.

C-Max - 42/38 MPG

Ford’s fuel-efficient wagon makes a showing as a spry hybrid that’s agile around corners and roomier than expected. An attractive interior coupled with ample seating make it a top consideration.

Fiesta - 37/27 MPG

Always the fun one in the group, the Fiesta serves up tight cornering and agile maneuvers through traffic. Being incredibly quick, especially with the sport trim, makes for a ride to remember.

 

Chevy

Bolt - 128/110 MPG

Chevy Bolt at Nissan of Van Nuys

As the Motor Trend Car of the Year and California’s best selling subcompact, the Bolt offers range only higher end Teslas can match at a fraction of the price.  With plenty of power and a 0-60 in 6.5 seconds, it’s easy to see why the bolt is America’s favorite electric car.

Volt - 42/42 MPG

With best-in-class, all-electric range, spacious storage, and punchy powertrain, the Volt warrants a closer look.  This mid-size offers an impressive cabin without the design compromises of a typical hybrid.

Cruze - 48/31 MPG

As one of the most fuel-efficient compacts, the Cruze doesn’t skimp on amenities. With generous standard features and a spacious interior, it might be the perfect commuter car.

Malibu - 36/29 MPG

A beautiful sedan, the Malibu offers all the treats you expect in a mid-size along with its legendary powertrain.  With five different trim options, you can get ground-breaking performance at any level.

Equinox - 39/28 MPG

Known for its exceptional handling and smooth ride, the Equinox offers an impressive cabin and plush seats. Four trim options with the lowest still providing all three powertrain options make this Chevy tough to pass on.

 

How to improve your car’s fuel efficiency

No matter what your current MPG may be, chances are you can save a few more bucks at the pump.

There are three main factors that affect fuel efficiency: the type of traffic and roads you encounter on a typical trip, your car’s characteristics, and your driving habits.

 

Common Commute

Does your normal commute involve climbing hills, traversing snow, or crawling the 405?

If so, your actual MPG may be lower than you think.

However, a commute down a non-congested highway at a steady 60 MPH would likely provide better mileage than expected.

 

Extra Baggage

A cluttered trunk can add unnecessary weight to your car.  An out-of-use roof rack can introduce countervailing drag.

Remember that heavier car requires more energy to move from a stop so they typically do much worse in traffic and city streets.

 

Driving Habits

The main idea is to conserve any energy you create on the road. This can be done by keeping your distance and easing off the gas pedal as opposed to braking.

Gradually accelerating helps as well.

Whether you drive a hybrid or a heavy-duty half-ton, there are always things you can control to make your vehicle more fuel efficient.

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03-01-19

Buying an Electric Car in California in 2019

There are a lot of reasons to go electric in 2019. Mainly, the number of models have been growing each year. Factor in government incentives and ever-improving battery technology and the market for electric vehicles looks increasingly bright.EV's provide fuel efficiency and a quieter ride, all the while requiring less maintenance. Also, models purchased this year will have HOV lane privileges until 2023.The movement has been emboldened further by a rapidly expanding charging infrastructure statewide.
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alldigits, Author at Nissan of Van Nuys

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