BMW M5

In 2011, the fifth generation of the BMW M5 model from BMW was demonstrated in Shanghai. Built on the BMW F10M platform, the M5 is rightfully considered the fastest serial “backhaul” in the history of the German brand. Let’s see what really makes the BMW M5 so good. The whole model range is BMW.

Car history

The BMW M5 F10 is an updated version of the BMW Motorsport 5th generation BMW machine. The debut family saw the light of day in 1986. The next M5 families were changed together with each family of 5-series cars, which include E34, E39, E60/E61.

After the start of production of the F10 model, following the receipt of the first orders, since the end of 2011 began assembling the M-version. As it is commonly considered, the history of “charged” sedans BMW M5 began with the appearance of the brand M535i with the index E12, in 1979 at the Frankfurt Motor Show.

It is clear that the model was not a full-fledged M-machine, but there was a lot of modifications from the engineering staff of M GmbH department. The sedan, which had a modest appearance, was equipped with an “atmospheric” M30 with in-line six-cylinder engine with a volume of 3.453 liters.

At that time, it was installed only on a 7-series sedan and a 6-series coupe. The engine was equipped with an electronic Bosch L-Jetronic injection, which allowed to develop 218 horsepower at 5,200 rpm.

Torque was transmitted to the rear wheels with locking through a 5-speed manual gearbox. Acceleration to 100 km/h was easy, especially at that time – it took 7.2 seconds. If we take the standard “related” cars, the model M535i was retailed with reconfigured springs and shock absorbers, but disc brakes were exactly the same as the other “five” with I6 engines.

For the European countries, the model with the index E12 was produced at the automobile plant in Germany – BMW Motorsport GmbH, but, for example, for the market of South African republics, the machines were produced from car kits at the local factory.

The M535i model was moved to the next generation of the 5th series – E28. The sports performance is already much higher, but the power of the atmospheric six-cylinder 3.4-liter engine remains the same – 218 horses and 304 N/m.

It was possible to reach the first hundred in 7.2 seconds, and the maximum speed was almost 230 kilometers per hour. In addition to the 5-speed manual gearbox, there was a four-range “automatic” ZF with three modes of operation – sports, winter and manual.

As in the previous car, there were modernized Bilstein shock absorbers, shortened springs and thickened stabilizers of transverse stability. The brake system remained at the same level, but the equipment was already equipped with ABS.

Inside the 28th model, as in the body of the E12, you can find sports seats with a unique stitching, as well as a three-spoke steering wheel. In total, from 1984 to 1988, 10335 cars were produced.

The debut full-fledged sedan BMW M5 was presented in winter (February) 1984. In those years at the Amsterdam Motor Show German specialists demonstrated a “charged” E28 series car. The vehicle had a 6-cylinder 3.5-liter engine M88/3, which developed 286 horsepower.

It was synchronized with a five-speed manual transmission and fully independent suspension. The “Sedanovskaya” version, which weighs 1,550 kg, can be accelerated to 100 km/h in just 6.1 seconds. At the same time, the maximum speed is more than 250 kilometers per hour.

There were a lot of changes in the cabin, which simply could not be ignored. From the very beginning there were sport seats inside, where side support was well expressed and there was a pillow with a moving part.

However, if the buyer wanted to, he could have ordered a chair that was not as tight or, on the contrary, ordered a stiffer one from Recaro. The cars differed from the simple “five” by the presence of three-spoke M-rudder, the original gearshift handle, overlays on the thresholds with the name of the model “M5”.

By 1988, a total of 2,191 copies had been produced. At the onset of 1988, the debut “em fifth” of the second family (E34 series) left the conveyor company Garching. The model received a strict and in measure athletic appearance, which attracts the views and to this day.

The M5 E34’s saloon has become more like a cockpit and creates a suitable aura that does not distract the driver from driving a sedan. Initially, the car was produced only with in-line 3.0-liter “six”, which was synchronized with a 5-speed manual gearbox.

As a result, the machine produced 315 horsepower and 360 N/m. Interestingly, German specialists even conducted experiments with the M-version in the body of the convertible, but the conceptual version of the vehicle did not move forward.

Three years later, the six-cylinder propulsion system underwent major upgrades, adding 200 cc’s of working volume to it, which resulted in the engine producing 340 horsepower and 400 N/m. By the last year of production, the upgraded engine was accompanied by a 6-speed mechanical box, which allowed it to reach the 100 km/h mark, taking only 6.3 seconds to complete.

Next year, the M5 Touring BMW wagon was noticed as one of the modifications. Production of M5 in the body of E34 was stopped by 1995. For seven years, about 12,000 second-generation M5 models were presented to the world.

Partly, this is due to more solid equipment, increased dimensions, but the most important – because of the powertrain. Instead of “six” came a new atmospheric eight-cylinder engine S62B50, which volume was 4.9 liters. The next model of BMW M5 (E39) in the list of models had only a version in the body “sedan”. The car turned out to be more rounded, became longer and heavier up to a mark of 1,795 kilograms.

The motor was made of aluminum and equipped with Double-VANOS phase shifters at the inlet and outlet. As a result, it allowed him to develop 400 “horses” and 500 N/m. The power plant worked together with the Getrag 6-speed gearbox, which accelerated the novelty to the first hundred in 5.3 seconds.

Speaking of suspension, it is necessary to say that McPherson racks were installed in front of the truck, and a multilever construction was installed behind it. The BMW M5 (E39) was rear-wheel drive and equipped with a 25% differential.

The German sedan consumed 13.9 liters per hundred kilometers in combined mode. Its production was carried out by Dingolfing plant from 1998 to 2000. A total of 20,000 units were produced.

The fourth family was able to debut in 2005. Just in the same year, began to produce a sedan at the Dingolfing plant. With the help of Chris Bengle’s work the car became brighter and more feminine.

The same can not be said about the interior, which has become cold, impregnable. Interestingly, the console installed in the center was already deployed from the chauffeur. The weight of the sedan has grown to 1,855 kg. The motorists department was able to work perfectly.

Instead of 8-cylinder 4.9-liter engine, the car had a high-speed atmospheric V-shaped, 10-cylinder 5-liter engine. Such a power plant was specially designed from scratch for M5. The technical innovation had 507 horsepower at 7,750 rpm and 520 N/m at 6,100 rpm.

It should not be forgotten that it was the BMW M5 of the 4th generation that had a fully switchable stabilization system, a self-locking differential on the rear axle and EDC shock absorbers with solenoid valves.

The rear-wheel drive model received torque through a twin-shaft robotic gearbox SMG III, where there are seven gears (the development was the responsibility of Getrag). The gearbox can be switched in 65 milliseconds.

The start time to the first hundred took 4.7 seconds, and the speed limit was limited to 250 kilometers per hour. Five years later, the machine left the production line, but during this time managed to make 19 522 sedans and 1 025 wagons.

And now, 6 years later (2011), the BMW M5 F10 was released into the world. At that time, it was the most powerful machine of the Bavarian company in its history. The sedan received an inflatable, V-shaped, eight-cylinder, 4.4-liter engine, which replaced the V-shaped 10-cylinder “atmosphere”.

“The Eight gave out 560 horsepower and 680 N/m. The engine had two twin0scroll turbochargers, direct fuel injection, inlet and outlet phase control and a patented exhaust manifold in which the exhaust gases pulsed equally.

The latter, in turn, ensures that there are almost no delays in opening the throttle. It was possible to reach a speed of 100 km/h only in 4.4 seconds, and the maximum speed was specially limited by the electronic system to 250 km/h. It was possible to order the option M Driver,s Package, which allowed to accelerate up to 305 kilometers per hour.

For those who did not have enough stock characteristics, a special version of the BMW M5 sedan was released in the body of the sedan. Since 2013, it is possible to buy cars, where the optional Competition Package is installed (a total of 4,459 copies were produced).

The engineering staff managed to increase the power unit capacity to 560 horses (the same 680 N/m), as well as to reconfigure the electric power steering and suspension, reducing the height of the ground clearance to 10 millimeters.

After three years, the automotive world has seen a more formidable and rarer modification – Competition Edition (a total of 200 cars). The 2016 model received 600 horsepower and 700 N/m. The first hundred kilometers per hour was covered in 3.9 seconds.

Speaking about the suspension, steering wheel control and active M-differential, they received original calibrations. Production of the M5 F10 BMW at the Dingolfing plant was completed in 2016. In total, the conveyor belt produced slightly more than 19,500 vehicles.

However, I am very pleased that the German company did not stop at the F10 model. In 2017, they were able to present the fresh generation of the “charged” sedan BMW M5 F90. The vehicle was created on the platform of “5-ki” series G30. Under the hood is a 600 hp, gasoline, V-shaped, eight-cylinder, 4.4-liter engine, which has a double turbocharger. Synchronized operation of this engine with 8-speed automatic gearbox.

If we compare the model with previous generations, the novelty has a four-wheel drive system, with the ability to disable the drive on the front axle, as well as the active rear differential. Another difference from the simple “5” improved suspension, which has active shock absorbers and reinforced braking systems.

Among the additional options, you can buy for the BMW M5 F90, the presence of carbon-ceramic brakes. The cost of the novelty for the European market will be from 118 000 euros. The pricing policy in the Russian Federation is not yet known.

Exterior (F10)

Compared to the standard BMW 5, the M5 version is 11 mm longer and three centimetres wider. Now these figures are 491 cm and 189.2 cm, respectively. BMW engineers know first-hand how close the shape and function are. These aspects have been collected in one piece of art. There are no unnecessary details in a sports car. This is especially true for the appearance. Even the exterior mirrors here perform their function in a wind tunnel.

Wide air intakes help the engine breathe while also cooling the braking system. Unique metallic blue color is the best expression of the racing “roots” of the German sedan. Rear spoiler with a diffuser M smoothly flow into the exhaust pipes, forming a perfect picture. The new German sedan looks like an elegant athlete with amazing abilities, which can be noticed the first time. When they created the design of the car, they were guided by the highest standards.

Even the nose part of the body with a double radiator grille in the newest appearance and adaptive headlighting system, designed for LEDs, directly indicates that this strong athlete has a serious character. Add dynamism, unique 20 inch light alloy rims are installed. They are included in the Competition package.

Horizontal contours of the powerful side parts of the body, as well as elegant relief contours, perfectly demonstrate the dynamic qualities of the vehicle. A rear spoiler, a diffuser, the latest tail lights, and paired exhaust pipes in black from the same optional package make the new M5 BMW easily recognisable, even when viewed from the rear of the car.

For the development of the appearance of the 10 were responsible for another new engineering staff, including Jacek Frolichs and Adrian van Heudonck. Chris Bangle was responsible for the design of the older models. His handwriting could be seen by looking at the powerful outlines of the car, but the appearance was quite controversial, as a definition of beauty.

The newest brand was made in a more sporty style. It also looks more voluminous than cars of earlier releases. Long distance illumination, in automatic mode, is able to change the light to the nearest one, if another car approaches from the front. Thanks to the reduced air resistance, the dynamic data provided excellent results and had a good impact on the economic component of the BMW M5.

The hood, together with the doors and many other external elements, were made of aluminum, which reduced the overall weight of the sedan. The 2013 model has survived a restyling process with new headlights and hood.

Interior (F10)

Of course, inside the BMW M5 one can see the sporting fervor, which causes delight and wild amazement. You open the doors and see the M pads right on the doorstep, take up space behind the leather steering wheel. The side-supported seats will keep you safe at all speeds. The interior is much more spacious than most other sports cars. Gear shifting is done with the help of aluminium buttons.

The most important data is displayed on the dashboard. In general, every detail in the cabin once again emphasizes the fact that the Bavarian sedan BMW M5 was created solely for the pleasure of fast driving, rather than measured smooth trampling at 80-120 km / h. The interior of the German sports sedan provides excellent control over the significant potential of this car, but at the same time it can be enjoyed fully, kilometer after kilometer.

With the ergonomic cockpit of the new BMW car, it is possible to achieve perfect interaction between the driver and the car. All controls are quite clear in all situations, so that the driver and the road section merge into one.

If you compare the car with the E60, the new M-ke has more free space because of the addition of a few cm in width and height of the car. Even for the novelty the system of supervision in a dark time of day which projects a picture on the central display has made.

Tests have shown that even in total darkness, this function will notice a pedestrian walking at a distance of 200-300 m. And according to other tests, EuroNcap and NHTSA, it has been proven that the M5 F10 BMW is one of the safest machines in its division.

On the rear of the front seats are mounted screens, diagonally 8 or 9 inches. The iDrive system comes with a joystick and a panel that supports touch input. It is able to recognize handwritten letters and numbers.

The car will give the opportunity to choose a personal mode of operation of shock absorbers, DSC stabilization options, transmission, power steering and powertrain. Even the engine sound can be adjusted in the car. If you choose the “Comfort” mode, the engine is almost silent, if you activate the “Sport” or “Sport Plus” mode, everyone in the cabin will be able to enjoy the “sound” of a real sports exhaust system.

The leather, which is quite a lot in the interior of the M5, perfectly complements the aluminum decor. Even standard climate control has four zones. The front seats are electrically powered, heated, and the driver’s seat even has memory. As an option, seats with adjustable rollers on the sides and backrest curves can be purchased. All materials are of the highest quality and the assembly is free of any problems.

The driver is presented with a conventional three-spoke steering wheel with leather trim, buttons to control the multimedia system, as well as cruise control. The dashboard looks simple enough and clear – there is a pair of massive analogue sensor of a speed mode and the sensor of quantity of revolutions of the power unit. There are small sensors of gasoline level, oil temperature mode, as well as onboard computer.

Specifications (F10)

Just listen to these numbers and everything will become clear by itself. With 560 horsepower, a take-off of up to 100 kilometers in 4.4 seconds, it’s much faster than the Volkswagen Passat B8, the eight-cylinder Twin Power Turbo engine and the same number of horses the Lexus LFA has, which accelerates faster.

The engine’s power is stunning due to its high linearity and huge traction, as well as advanced intercoolers. Even with a light touch of the accelerator pedal, the V8 engine breaks forward like a burnt-out engine.

Using the Efficient Dynamics BMW option, the average fuel consumption can be reduced to 10 litres per 100 km. The gearbox here is seven-speed, clutch is double. Combined disc brakes help to stop at high speed. Active differential serves as a guarantee that the car will remain stable on the ice and on the snow.

New BMW M5 (F90)

In reality, almost all the major differences of the M5 knew already many in the spring of this year. However, now, the “loaded” car in the sedan body was officially declassified. With the growth of power, capabilities of the usual rear-wheel drive was not enough, so the company still decided to move to the two leading axles.

It is noteworthy that despite the construction of the car on the platform “5-ki” G30, the model received an internal index F90, which refers it to the German F-machines of the previous generation.

Exterior (F90)

Now the Bavarian child has extended wings, muscular bumpers, a developed air intake system, a quartet of exhaust pipes and 19 or 20-inch wheels.

Despite the presence of all-wheel drive system, the car is 15 kilograms lighter than the previous generation. The sedan has a carbon plastic roof, as well as aluminum front fenders, doors, hood and luggage compartment lid.

Interior (F90)

Inside the BMW M5 F90 there is an M-rudder wheel, where there are red spots of buttons M1 and M2, on which you can “set” your own combination of modes of the entire driving electronic system. A little bit changed the selector of automatic gearbox, which has a two-arm key to change the adjustment on the top.

Basic seats are equipped with a truncated set of electrical adjustments, but for an additional fee, you can order sports seats with integrated headrests, full electrification (which includes adjustment of the backrest, along with rollers of side support) and the memory function of both the driver’s seat and the front passenger.

Standard equipment includes 6 airbags and armchairs in Merino leather. The luggage compartment now has no bulky and heavy lead-acid battery. In its place, German engineers supplied lithium-ion battery.

Specifications (F90)

Powertrain

Under the hood of the German famous sedan, the same V-shaped, eight-cylinder, 4.4-liter engine is installed, which produces 600 horsepower and 750 N/m (last model 560 and 680).

However, the engine received more powerful turbochargers twin scroll, more elevated injection pressure (up to 350 bar), reworked cooling and lubrication system, so that if the car is on the track, it does not require oil.

A lightweight exhaust system with Helmholtz resonators and valve sound control was found. It is noteworthy that the V8 engine provides a peak thrust from 1,800 rpm to 5,600 rpm. Accelerating to 200 km/h is not a problem and will only take 11.1 seconds.

According to the company, the model consumes no more than 10.5 liters for every hundred kilometers in combined mode, and the engine fully meets Euro-6 standards. As a result, the M5 F90 BMW accelerates to 100 km/h in just 3.4 seconds.

The limiting speed is limited by electronics at the level of 250 kilometers per hour, however optionally, it is possible to order a package M Driver `s Package which allows to accelerate to 305 km/h.

Transmission

Instead of the last preclusive robotic gearbox, the Germans decided to install an 8-speed ZF gearbox for the sedan. The gearbox has a similar meaning in terms of design.

Like other Munich cars – by default, the torque is transmitted to the rear wheels, and the electronically adjustable multi-disc clutch is responsible for connecting the front wheels. Differences of this kind: reinforced components, active M-differential and software.

All-wheel drive system has 3 algorithms of functioning, to which can be attributed the drift-mode, which is activated at the complete shutdown of the stabilization system. When the stabilization system is on, the available drive is on all wheels only.

The tolerant M Dynamic Mode activates the all-wheel drive system 4WD Sport, which places more emphasis on the rear wheels. When the DSC is asleep, the driver will be able to select the 4WD, 4WD Sport and 2WD programs. The improved transmission shifts quickly and gently between gears, and the torque converter lock only shuts down when the speed changes.

Suspension

The pendants just couldn’t get past, so the last one was improved. There is a two-lever pendant in front, and a multilever pendant in the back. The engineering staff decided to expand the track, review the kinematics and elastokinematics, increase the rigidity of rubber mounts.

Moreover, Bavarian specialists have increased the rigidity of the lower arms in front, as well as stabilizers of transverse stability. The sedan received additional aluminum amplifiers in the bow of the body, as well as X-shaped steel element designed to increase the strength of the entire rear axle. From the factory, three-mode adaptive shock absorbers are installed on the em-fifth.

Steering wheel control

The electric power steering has been adjusted and will also have 3 modes of operation.

Brake system

By default, the BMW M5 F90 is equipped with cast iron brakes with six-piston monobloc calipers in front and simple single-piston calipers with floating braces at the back. For a separate surcharge, the presence of golden brakes made of carbon-ceramic is distinguished.

Safety (F90)

A high degree of safety is one of the distinguishing features of the M5 BMW. Body structures are characterized by very high rigidity and stability. If the car collides at a speed of up to 15 km/h, it will not cause significant damage to the body, because the deformation points in the front and back of the bumper, confidently protect the structure from damage.

The cabin was able to be equipped with side stiffness elements and a vital AirBag system, which depends on a perfectly tuned electronic safety system. Good synchronization of intelligent devices and metal (steel) of the latest generation, allowed to provide maximum protection for the driver and passengers of the new M5 and other participants of the traffic.

In the optional active safety system, BMW ConnectedDrive’s fresh sedan warning functions have been implemented to protect the driver and passengers from unexpected injuries.

The tensioners installed in the seatbelts, which in turn are integrated into the front seats, increase the range of seatbelt safety options and the automatic sliding discs give the airbags installed on the sides a good performance.

There is also passive safety in the Germans. Multi-phase hot-deformed steel can be noted, which have been scrupulously combined to obtain the highest degree of safety for the driver and passengers.

This design is also capable of absorbing and dissipating collision energy by means of preferred deformation, which in turn also provides safety for other road users. If a collision with a pedestrian is unavoidable, an automated system lifts the hood to cushion the collision force.

Active Security Service

The active safety option contains a whole list of BMW defensive components and looks like the active safety of a BMW ConnectedDrive for chauffeur and passengers. At the onset of a critical moment on the road section, the seat belts on the front seats are reversibly pretensioned.

The electrically powered passenger seat to the right of the driver is prepared to the required position, and the windows and roof hatch on the sides are closed (if fitted as an option).

When the critical moment comes, it depends on when the driver will perform emergency braking or when setting excessive or incomplete turning. Sometimes, in the event of an emergency, the braking will be carried out automatically with a stop-motion limit until the car has stopped completely.

This reduces or completely eliminates the chance of a secondary collision. The attention control function monitors the driver’s behaviour towards fatigue symptoms. Moreover, the function is able to analyze the steering wheel torsion and reacts to abnormal behavior. On the control screen you can see a notification of the advice to rest.

Projection screen

The BMW projection screen with M screen, which is full-color, provides the opportunity to project important information right in front of the driver, so that it will fall into the driver’s field of vision, which will allow you to fully concentrate on driving.

It displays the information of the navigation system, the messages of the function of speed limit notification. This also includes a ban on overtaking and informing the on-board diagnostic computer. In addition, you can display the information that comes from your multimedia system.

Symbols that are projected onto the windscreen are reproduced in high resolution and full colors. You can adjust the design parameters. The sunglasses, which are polarized, do not show the screen completely.

The backlight level is adjusted automatically according to the current lighting conditions. In addition, day and night lighting is available. In manual mode, the brightness can be changed in the iDrive menu. There you can also choose which data you want to display on the projection screen.

Video Systems

In the BMW M5, you can easily enjoy the view, because for this purpose cameras have been built in to provide better visibility, for example, when leaving, and other positions where visibility may be limited.

The all-around view option includes a rear view camera with a side view and a top view option that provides a 270 degree panoramic view. This system makes parking and manoeuvring easier in small spaces and when driving on a road section with poor visibility.

The rear view camera includes cameras that are mounted on the side mirrors and aft of the body (3 in total). This option allows for perfect visibility in space. Depending on the situation, it is possible to switch between rear view, circular and side view modes. The picture of the selected mode is displayed on the control screen.

Comfortable access

Thus, comfortable access provides an opportunity, with simplicity, safety and refinement, to open a new sedan and start the power unit without removing the key from your pocket. This is additional equipment, which can be ordered optionally.

If the owner is near the machine, the key transmits an identification signal. The doors are automatically opened only when the handle is touched, and in order to secure entry into the machine, the door threshold will be automatically illuminated for 20 seconds.

The luggage compartment can also be opened automatically if you swipe your foot over the sensors under the bumper. However, when using a traction or hitch, the system will not detect other movements.

In order to start driving, it is necessary to press the engine start and stop button easily. If it is necessary to close the machine in automatic mode, press the outer handle of the door briefly to do so. Interestingly, the locking mechanism is locked if the key is inside the car. This means that there is no need to worry that you could accidentally lock the keys in the car.

Maintenance works

The BMW Service Inclusive Service Package includes the complete maintenance required for the selected period of time and mileage. Interestingly, the program operates worldwide. Packages of such services give an opportunity to get a pleasant feeling from driving.

Thus, the engine oil is replaced, which includes refilling (required condition: timely change of oil at authorized service centers), maintenance of microfilter, fuel and air filters, change of spark plugs and brake fluid, as well as general inspection and other services.

Complete sets and prices (F90)

The M5 car from BMW is manufactured in the German town of Dingolfing. Available in Russia with a 4.4-liter engine and a maximum speed of 250 km/h (automatic transmission). You can buy a German beauty for $ 84852.

The basic equipment will have leather lining, electric seat adjustment, seat heating, start/stop option, climate control, two parking lots, cruise control, wheel pressure sensor, button start, rain and light sensor, good audio system and seat memory.

Additional options include front seat ventilation, rear seat heating, blind spot and lane monitoring, night vision, rear view camera and all-round view. It can also include a hatch, navigation system, keyless access, electric boot drive, luxury audio system, rear passenger media, adaptive lighting, 20 inch wheels, curtains and LED optics.

Pros and cons

Summing up

A car? No, the German company managed to create a kind of “werewolf” car market. Bavarian model M5 (F10 sedan) can be a comfortable business sedan today, and then turn into an uncompromising sports horse. As an alternative, we can consider the Audi RS5 or also the German Mercedes CLS 2015 63 AMG. In the “five” like absolutely everything – except the price, of course. But with such a car its owner becomes recognizable even in the largest metropolis. “Look, the BMW M5 has gone” – you will hear this phrase more than once!

Although the M5 E60 BMW is also a success, it is still very far from being a super-sedan of the sports type. The BMW M5 F90 weighs less than its direct competitors, but is not inferior to them in speed. And this is despite the all-wheel drive, which the Germans decided to implement in this model for the first time. There will be nobody equal on the roads for you, because it is possible to accelerate up to 200 km/h, it is possible only for 11 with small seconds – really impresses!

In addition, despite the very powerful engine, it does not consume so much fuel that any motorist will like it. Excellent suspension, reinforced brakes, a lot of assistants, as well as one of the best safety systems in the class – all this allows the Germans to feel on top of the automotive industry. Many motorists are hopeful – if next year the car will be modified, what will be the BMW M5 2018? Only time will tell.

We advise you to read the article: BMW history

BMW M5 (F90) photo

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