Based on looking at the website, Smots.co.uk presents itself as a local MOT testing station and garage service in Sevenoaks, Kent. It appears to focus on essential vehicle maintenance and repair, providing straightforward information about its services, location, and operating hours.
Here’s an overall review summary:
- Website Clarity: High. The site clearly states its services and location.
- Information Depth: Moderate. Provides essential details but lacks in-depth explanations or extensive customer support resources.
- Transparency: Good. Pricing for MOTs is mentioned, and contact details are prominent.
- User Experience: Basic. The design is functional but lacks modern features and extensive navigation.
- Online Presence: Limited. Appears to be a local business website with no evident e-commerce or advanced booking features.
- Trust Indicators: Established date (1992) is a positive sign for longevity, but lacks customer reviews or accreditations prominently displayed.
- Ethical Consideration: Appears to align with ethical business practices, providing necessary vehicle services without engaging in haram activities.
Smots.co.uk seems to be a no-frills, practical online presence for a physical garage. It provides just enough information for potential customers to understand what services are offered and how to get in touch. While it doesn’t offer advanced features or a slick modern design, its directness serves its purpose for a local service provider. The emphasis is clearly on the physical location and traditional phone contact rather than a comprehensive digital experience. For those seeking basic vehicle maintenance from an established local business, the site provides the necessary initial contact points.
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- Key Features: National network of centres, wide range of services including tyres, MOTs, servicing, brakes, exhausts. Offers online booking and payment options.
- Average Price: Varies significantly by service; MOTs typically around £40-£50, full service starts from £150+.
- Pros: Widespread availability, comprehensive service menu, online booking convenience, established reputation.
- Cons: Can be perceived as more expensive than independent garages, service quality can vary by branch.
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- Key Features: Large network across the UK, offering MOTs, car servicing, repairs, and tyres. Often provides clear pricing and service options.
- Average Price: Competitive, with MOTs often around £35-£45 and major services from £140+.
- Pros: Reputable brand, extensive service range, online booking, often has promotions.
- Cons: Some customers report upselling, branch quality can differ.
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- Key Features: Specialises in tyres, but also offers MOTs, servicing, brakes, and wheel alignment. Focus on vehicle safety and maintenance.
- Average Price: Tyres vary widely; MOTs typically £30-£45; other services priced competitively.
- Pros: Tyre expertise, good for fleet services, professional approach.
- Cons: Fewer branches than Kwik Fit or Halfords, less focus on general repairs.
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- Key Features: Strong focus on tyres, but also provides MOTs, servicing, and general repairs. Offers online booking and local branch finder.
- Average Price: Tyres are their main product, prices competitive; MOTs from £30.
- Pros: Good for tyre replacement, often has competitive deals, reliable service.
- Cons: Not as comprehensive for complex mechanical repairs as dedicated garages, service can be basic.
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Euro Car Parts (For DIY or finding parts for your mechanic)
- Key Features: Not a service centre, but a major retailer of car parts and accessories. Useful for sourcing components for independent mechanics.
- Average Price: Varies hugely depending on parts; generally competitive for aftermarket parts.
- Pros: Huge inventory, good for finding specific parts, often faster than dealership parts.
- Cons: Requires technical knowledge for DIY or reliance on a mechanic, not a service provider itself.
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- Key Features: Online platform to compare quotes from local garages for various services (MOTs, servicing, repairs). Acts as a marketplace.
- Average Price: Varies as it’s a comparison site; can find competitive deals.
- Pros: Allows direct comparison of prices and reviews from multiple garages, can find local, independent options.
- Cons: Quality of garages can vary, relies on user reviews, communication is through the platform initially.
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- Key Features: Another online platform similar to WhoCanFixMyCar, connecting users with local garages for MOTs, servicing, and repairs. Offers instant quotes.
- Average Price: Competitive, as it allows for price comparison.
- Pros: Easy to use, instant quotes, wide network of garages, transparent pricing.
- Cons: Quality depends on the specific garage chosen, no direct vetting beyond basic checks.
Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.
IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.
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Smots.co.uk Review & First Look
When you land on Smots.co.uk, the first impression is one of straightforward utility. There’s no flashy design, no complex animations – just the core information you need to know about a local garage. It immediately identifies itself as “Sevenoaks MOT Station,” clearly stating its primary function. The site is a digital billboard for a physical business, prioritising accessibility of contact details and services over an elaborate online experience. This directness can be a pro for users who simply want to find a local garage, but a con for those expecting a modern, feature-rich website.
The homepage provides key details such as the full address (UNIT 5, VESTRY ESTATE, VESTRY ROAD, SEVENOAKS, KENT, TN14 5EL), contact number (01732 464420, prominently displayed multiple times), and opening hours (Monday – Friday, 8.00 am – 5.00 pm). This immediate transparency about how to reach them and when they are open is a strong point.
Initial Impressions of the Homepage
The design is functional, reminiscent of earlier web aesthetics. This isn’t necessarily a drawback for a local business, as long as the information is clear and easy to find. However, it does mean the site lacks the visual appeal and interactive elements common in contemporary web design.
Key Information Availability
All critical information is present on the homepage. You’ll find:
- Contact Number: Repeated frequently.
- Address: Full physical address for navigation.
- Operating Hours: Clearly listed.
- Services Offered: A concise list including MOTs, Car Servicing, Repairs, Tyres, Punctures & Balancing, and Exhausts.
- Special Offers: A clear “DISCOUNT MOT only £35 when carried out with a full service” with a call to action to mention the website offer.
Website Navigation and User Flow
The navigation is basic, with links to “Home,” “MOT in Sevenoaks,” “Servicing & Repairs,” and “Contact Details.” While functional, it’s not extensive. There’s no obvious search function, customer login, or detailed service descriptions that one might expect from a larger automotive service provider. This simplicity means users can quickly find core information, but complex queries might require a phone call. Supercapital.co.uk Review
Smots.co.uk Pros & Cons
Delving deeper into Smots.co.uk, it’s a classic example of a practical, local business website. It excels in certain areas due to its simplicity but also falls short in others when compared to more digitally advanced competitors.
Advantages of Smots.co.uk
- Clear and Concise Information: The site immediately tells you what it does, where it is, and how to contact them. There’s no jargon or unnecessary fluff.
- Local Focus: Explicitly caters to the Sevenoaks area, offering a free pick-up and collection service within a 5-mile radius for servicing and repairs. This local convenience is a significant draw for residents.
- Established Business: The mention of “Sevenoaks MOT Station (established in 1992)” lends credibility and a sense of longevity, suggesting a business that has stood the test of time.
- Direct Contact: Phone numbers are prominent and easy to find, indicating a preference for direct customer interaction, which can be reassuring for some.
- Ethical Service Provision: The services offered—MOTs, servicing, repairs—are fundamental and ethical vehicle maintenance, essential for safety and compliance. This aligns well with general ethical business principles.
- Discount Offer: The £35 MOT with a full service is a clear, attractive incentive for potential customers.
Disadvantages of Smots.co.uk
- Outdated Design: The website’s aesthetic and user interface feel dated. It lacks modern responsiveness, visual appeal, and interactive elements common in 2024.
- Lack of Online Booking: There’s no facility to book an MOT or service online. All bookings require a phone call, which can be inconvenient for customers preferring digital interactions or outside of business hours.
- Limited Content Depth: Beyond the basic service list, there are no detailed explanations of services, common repair issues, or customer testimonials. This limits the site’s value as a comprehensive resource.
- No Online Customer Reviews/Testimonials: The absence of customer reviews or a dedicated testimonials section on the site means potential customers cannot easily gauge the quality of service from past experiences.
- Absence of FAQs: A common feature for service-based websites, an FAQ section could answer common customer queries and reduce the need for phone calls.
- No Blog or Resources Section: There’s no content beyond the core services, such as a blog on car maintenance tips, which could enhance SEO and customer engagement.
- Limited Digital Presence: The site is a standalone entity with no obvious links to social media profiles or third-party review platforms, limiting its broader digital footprint.
- Security Features Not Explicit: While most modern sites run on HTTPS, the visual cues for security and data protection are not explicitly highlighted.
Smots.co.uk Pricing
Smots.co.uk clearly advertises one specific pricing point on its homepage: the MOT. This direct approach is helpful for customers, as it removes ambiguity regarding a core service.
MOT Pricing Details
The website prominently states:
- “DISCOUNT MOT only £35 when carried out with a full service.” This is a compelling offer, providing a clear incentive for customers to opt for a more comprehensive package. It implies that a standalone MOT might be a different, presumably higher, price, but that specific price isn’t listed directly.
Transparency in Pricing
While the £35 offer is transparent, the lack of general pricing for other services (car servicing, repairs, tyres, etc.) means customers will need to call to get a quote. This is a common practice for many independent garages, as repair costs can vary widely depending on the vehicle model, specific issue, and parts required.
Value Proposition
The £35 MOT with a full service is competitive in the UK market. Standard MOT tests often range from £40 to the maximum legal limit of £54.85. Offering it at £35 with a full service positions them as a value-for-money option, especially for those who need both services performed. Kitchenways.co.uk Review
Implications for Customers
- Budgeting: Customers can easily budget for their MOT if combined with a service.
- Information Gathering: For other services, customers must factor in the step of calling the garage for a quote. This is a minor inconvenience but an extra step.
- No Online Quote System: Unlike some larger chains that offer online quote tools for various services, Smots.co.uk relies on direct communication for all pricing inquiries beyond the headline MOT offer.
Smots.co.uk vs. Competitors
When evaluating Smots.co.uk against its competitors in the UK automotive service market, it’s essential to consider its positioning as a local, independent garage. Its strengths lie in its community focus and established presence, while larger chains offer a different set of advantages.
Comparison with National Chains (e.g., Kwik Fit, Halfords Autocentres)
- Reach and Network: National chains boast hundreds of locations across the UK, offering unparalleled accessibility. Smots.co.uk is a single-location business, serving a specific geographical area (Sevenoaks and surrounding regions).
- Online Capabilities: Major chains invest heavily in sophisticated websites with online booking systems, detailed service menus, online payment options, and extensive customer support portals. Smots.co.uk’s online presence is far more basic, requiring phone calls for bookings and detailed quotes.
- Service Range: While Smots.co.uk covers core services (MOTs, servicing, repairs, tyres), national chains often have a wider array of specialized services, brand partnerships, and parts availability due to their scale.
- Brand Recognition: Names like Kwik Fit and Halfords have strong national brand recognition built through extensive marketing. Smots.co.uk relies on local reputation and word-of-mouth.
- Pricing Structure: National chains often have tiered pricing for services and frequent national promotions. Smots.co.uk lists a single MOT offer, with other pricing by quote. However, independent garages often offer more competitive pricing for specific repairs compared to chain fixed rates.
- Customer Experience Consistency: National chains aim for consistent service quality across all branches, though this can vary. Independent garages like Smots.co.uk often build a reputation on personal service and a more direct relationship with customers.
Comparison with Other Independent Garages
- Online Presence: Smots.co.uk’s website is functional, which puts it ahead of some smaller independent garages that may only rely on Google My Business or word-of-mouth. However, many modern independent garages have invested in more updated websites with online booking forms or CRM integration.
- Specialisation: Some independent garages specialise in specific vehicle makes (e.g., German cars, classic cars) or types of repairs (e.g., diagnostics, bodywork). Smots.co.uk appears to be a generalist garage, servicing “all makes of vehicle – Petrol and Diesel.”
- Customer Review Integration: Many independent garages actively use platforms like Google Reviews, Trustpilot, or local directories to showcase customer feedback. Smots.co.uk’s website doesn’t explicitly link to or display such reviews, which can be a missed opportunity for building trust online.
Where Smots.co.uk Shines
- Local Convenience: The free pick-up and collection service within a 5-mile radius is a significant competitive advantage for local residents, a service not always offered by larger chains.
- Personal Touch: Being an independent, established garage suggests a more personalised service where customers might deal directly with the mechanics or owners, fostering trust and loyalty.
- Established Reputation: Having been “established in 1992” speaks volumes about its endurance in the local market, suggesting a reliable and trusted service over many years.
In essence, Smots.co.uk competes by being a reliable, local option for essential vehicle maintenance, leaning on its established presence and personalised service. It’s not trying to outcompete national chains on digital features or scale but rather on local convenience and a solid, long-standing reputation.
How to Book a Service at Smots.co.uk
Booking a service or MOT at Smots.co.uk is a straightforward process, albeit one that relies on traditional methods rather than advanced digital tools. The website clearly funnels users towards a single, direct method of contact: the phone.
The Primary Booking Method: Phone Call
The website prominently displays and repeats the phone number: 01732 464420. This is the sole method advertised for scheduling appointments.
- Step 1: Identify Your Service Needs: Determine whether you require an MOT, a full service, general repairs, tyre work, or exhaust services.
- Step 2: Note the Opening Hours: The garage operates Monday to Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. Ensure you call within these hours.
- Step 3: Make the Call: Dial 01732 464420.
- Step 4: Mention the Offer: If you are interested in the £35 MOT with a full service, the website explicitly states: **”Mention website offer when calling.”* This is crucial to ensure you receive the advertised discount.
- Step 5: Provide Vehicle Details and Schedule: Be ready to provide details about your vehicle (make, model, registration) and discuss your service requirements. The staff will then help you schedule a suitable date and time.
- Step 6: Confirm Pick-up/Collection: If you are within the 5-mile radius for the free pick-up and collection service, confirm this arrangement during your call.
What to Expect During the Call
- Direct Interaction: You will speak directly with a staff member who can answer your questions, provide quotes for non-advertised services, and confirm availability.
- Personalised Service: This direct communication allows for a more personalised booking experience, where you can discuss specific concerns about your vehicle.
- No Instant Confirmation: Unlike online booking systems that provide immediate email confirmations, you’ll rely on verbal confirmation during the call. It’s advisable to note down your appointment details.
Absence of Online Booking Features
It’s important to note what Smots.co.uk does not offer in terms of booking: Jpsrefrigeration.co.uk Review
- Online Booking Form: There is no form on the website to submit a booking request.
- Real-time Availability Calendar: You cannot view available slots or choose your preferred time online.
- Email Booking: An email address for booking isn’t prominently displayed, reinforcing the phone-first approach.
- Customer Portal: No facility to manage existing bookings or view service history online.
For customers accustomed to digitally streamlined processes, the phone-only booking might seem antiquated. However, for a local business focused on direct customer engagement, it serves its purpose. It ensures that all bookings are personally handled, potentially reducing miscommunications and allowing for immediate problem-solving or detailed discussions.
Smots.co.uk Service & Repairs Offerings
Smots.co.uk positions itself as a comprehensive local garage capable of handling a variety of essential vehicle maintenance and repair needs for a broad spectrum of vehicles. The services listed are standard for an independent garage, focusing on keeping vehicles roadworthy, safe, and efficient.
Core Service Categories
The homepage clearly lists the primary services offered:
- MOT Testing: This is explicitly highlighted as a core service, given the business name “Sevenoaks MOT Station.” They conduct the mandatory annual inspection required for vehicles over three years old in the UK to ensure they meet road safety and environmental standards. The discounted rate of £35 when combined with a full service is a key selling point.
- Car Servicing: This includes routine maintenance to keep a vehicle in good working order. While specific tiers (e.g., interim, full, major service) aren’t detailed on the website, this generally covers oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, and general inspections to prevent future breakdowns and maintain vehicle health.
- All Makes & Models: A crucial detail mentioned is their capability to service and repair “all makes of vehicle – Petrol and Diesel.” This broadens their appeal, indicating they are not limited to specific brands or fuel types.
- Repairs: This is a broad category covering various mechanical and electrical issues that vehicles might encounter. It implies diagnostics and fixing problems beyond routine servicing. The site doesn’t specify types of repairs (e.g., engine, transmission, brakes), but it’s understood to cover common automotive faults.
- Tyres, Punctures & Balancing: This is a specialised but common service. It includes:
- Tyre Sales and Fitting: Supplying and fitting new tyres.
- Puncture Repairs: Fixing minor damages to tyres that can be safely repaired according to industry standards.
- Wheel Balancing: Ensuring the weight of the tyre and wheel assembly is evenly distributed, which is crucial for smooth driving and tyre longevity.
- Exhausts: This suggests they handle exhaust system repairs and replacements, addressing issues like leaks, corrosion, or damage that can affect vehicle emissions and noise levels.
Free Pick-up and Collection Service
A notable added value service is the “Free pick up and collection service within 5 mile radius for Servicing and Repairs.” This is a significant convenience for customers who might struggle with transportation while their car is being serviced or repaired, especially beneficial for those with busy schedules or limited mobility.
What is Not Explicitly Mentioned
While the list is comprehensive for a general garage, some specialised services are not explicitly detailed: Easywatering.co.uk Review
- Diagnostics: While implied under “Repairs,” specific advanced diagnostic services using specialised equipment are not highlighted.
- Air Conditioning Re-gas/Service: A common modern vehicle service that is not listed.
- Bodywork/Paintwork: No mention of collision repair or cosmetic bodywork.
- Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS) Calibration: A growing area of vehicle servicing, not mentioned.
However, for a local, independent garage, the listed services cover the vast majority of common customer needs, focusing on the essentials of keeping a car safe and running efficiently. The “all makes & models” promise, combined with the free pick-up service, makes it a convenient option for many local residents.
Enhancing Trust and Transparency for Local Garages
For local businesses like Smots.co.uk, building and maintaining trust is paramount. While their long establishment (since 1992) provides a solid foundation, there are several ways a digital presence can further enhance transparency and customer confidence.
Displaying Customer Testimonials and Reviews
- On-site Testimonials: A dedicated section on the website featuring quotes from satisfied customers. This provides social proof and demonstrates positive experiences.
- Links to Review Platforms: Direct links to their profiles on Google Reviews, Trustpilot, or other relevant automotive review sites. This allows potential customers to see unedited, third-party verified feedback.
- Stars/Rating System: If possible, integrating a summary of their average rating from external platforms (e.g., “4.8/5 Stars on Google from 150+ reviews”) prominently on the homepage.
- Statistics: Displaying a number of satisfied customers (e.g., “Over 10,000 satisfied customers since 1992”) or successful MOTs conducted annually (e.g., “500+ MOTs conducted last year”).
Detailing Accreditations and Affiliations
- Industry Certifications: Highlighting any certifications from automotive trade bodies (e.g., Retail Motor Industry Federation (RMIF), Motor Ombudsman, Trust My Garage). These show adherence to industry standards and codes of conduct.
- Approved MOT Centre: Explicitly stating their status as an authorised MOT testing station by the DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency). This is fundamental for an MOT centre and should be a clear badge of honour.
- Manufacturer Training: If mechanics have received specific training from vehicle manufacturers, mentioning this can build trust for specific car owners.
- Insurance Details: Briefly mentioning appropriate business insurance coverage can reassure customers about liability.
Providing Clear Service Descriptions
- Breakdown of Service Packages: For car servicing, detailing what each level (e.g., interim, full, major) includes. This helps customers understand the value and scope of work.
- Explanation of MOT Process: A brief, simple explanation of what an MOT involves, why it’s necessary, and what the common failure points are.
- Common Repair Guides: Simple, digestible content explaining common car issues (e.g., “Why is my check engine light on?”) and how they are diagnosed and repaired. This adds value and positions the garage as an expert.
- Parts Quality: Mentioning whether they use OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts, aftermarket parts, or both, and the implications for warranty or performance.
Enhancing Digital Security and Privacy
- SSL Certificate: Ensuring the website uses HTTPS (which it does), and potentially highlighting this with a trust badge.
- Privacy Policy: A clear, accessible privacy policy detailing how customer data (phone numbers, names, vehicle details) is collected, stored, and used. This is crucial for GDPR compliance in the UK.
- Terms and Conditions: Transparent terms and conditions for services, particularly regarding warranties on repairs.
By implementing some of these enhancements, a local garage like Smots.co.uk can significantly boost its online credibility, attract more customers who rely on digital information, and reinforce its reputation as a trustworthy and professional service provider in the community. This aligns with modern consumer expectations for transparency and easily accessible information.
FAQ
Is Smots.co.uk a legitimate business?
Yes, based on the website, Smots.co.uk appears to be a legitimate local business. It provides a clear physical address, contact number, and states it was established in 1992, indicating a long-standing presence in the community.
What services does Smots.co.uk offer?
Smots.co.uk offers MOT testing, car servicing, general car repairs, tyre services (including punctures and balancing), and exhaust system work for all makes of petrol and diesel vehicles. Kubeproductions.co.uk Review
Where is Smots.co.uk located?
Smots.co.uk is located at Unit 5, Vestry Estate, Vestry Road, Sevenoaks, Kent, TN14 5EL, in the United Kingdom. The website mentions it’s easy to find, behind the Sevenoaks drive-in McDonald’s, Homebase, and Sainsbury’s.
What are Smots.co.uk’s opening hours?
Smots.co.uk is open Monday to Friday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. They are closed on Saturdays and Sundays.
Does Smots.co.uk offer a discount on MOTs?
Yes, Smots.co.uk offers a discount MOT for only £35 when it is carried out with a full service. You must mention this website offer when calling to book.
How do I book a service with Smots.co.uk?
You need to call Smots.co.uk directly on 01732 464420 to book a service or MOT appointment. The website does not currently support online booking.
Does Smots.co.uk offer online booking?
No, Smots.co.uk does not offer online booking. All appointments must be made by calling their provided phone number. Kjplumbing-heating.co.uk Review
Does Smots.co.uk service all car makes and models?
Yes, the website states that Smots.co.uk provides car servicing, general car repairs, and MOTs for “all makes of vehicle – Petrol and Diesel.”
Is there a free pick-up and collection service available?
Yes, Smots.co.uk offers a free pick-up and collection service for servicing and repairs within a 5-mile radius of their garage.
How long has Sevenoaks MOT Station been established?
Sevenoaks MOT Station, operating as Smots.co.uk, was established in 1992, indicating over 30 years of operation.
Does Smots.co.uk provide quotes for repairs online?
No, the website does not provide an online quote system for repairs. You would need to call them directly to discuss your repair needs and obtain a quote.
Are there customer reviews for Smots.co.uk available on their website?
The Smots.co.uk website does not feature a dedicated section for customer reviews or testimonials. You may need to look for external review platforms like Google Reviews. Almach.co.uk Review
Can I get new tyres fitted at Smots.co.uk?
Yes, Smots.co.uk offers tyre services, which include fitting new tyres, puncture repairs, and wheel balancing.
Does Smots.co.uk handle exhaust repairs?
Yes, exhaust services are listed among the repairs offered by Smots.co.uk.
Is the website mobile-friendly?
Based on the design, the website appears to have an older, more static design that may not be fully optimised for modern mobile responsiveness, though core information should still be accessible.
What payment methods does Smots.co.uk accept?
The website does not explicitly state accepted payment methods. It is advisable to confirm payment options when you call to book your service.
Does Smots.co.uk have a presence on social media?
The Smots.co.uk website does not display any links to social media profiles, suggesting a limited or no active social media presence. Scotrapeseedoil.co.uk Review
What is the typical cost of an MOT at Smots.co.uk without a full service?
While the £35 MOT with a full service is advertised, the standalone MOT price is not explicitly listed on the homepage. You would need to call to inquire about the cost of an MOT only.
How reliable is Smots.co.uk based on its online presence?
Based on its online presence, Smots.co.uk presents itself as a transparent and established local garage with clear contact information and services. Its longevity (established 1992) suggests reliability within the community.
Are there any hidden fees with the MOT discount offer?
The website clearly states “Mention website offer when calling” for the £35 MOT with a full service. As with any offer, it’s always best to clarify all costs during the booking call to ensure no surprises.
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