VinFast VF6 And VF7 Bookings Open For Rs 21,000; Will Go On Sale Next Month

VinFast Auto India — the Indian subsidiary of Vietnam-based VinFast Group — has officially opened bookings today for two of their electric SUVs, the VF7 and VF6, in the country ahead of the official launch slated for August 2025. Interested buyers can reserve their VinFast either at the showrooms or through the company’s official website, VinFastAuto.in for a (refundable) amount of Rs 21,000. 

 

Also read: VinFast VF6 And VF7 Bookings To Open On July 15: To Be Available In 13 States Initially 
 

Also Read: VinFast To Offer Mobile EV Charging Services In India

While the VinFast will be locally assembled at VinFast’s upcoming factory in Thoothukudi in Tamil Nadu, these two offerings will initially be available across 27 cities through 32 dealerships. The first set of showrooms are expected in cities namely Delhi, Gurugram, Noida, Chennai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Pune, Jaipur, Ahmedabad, Kolkata, Cochin, Bhubaneshwar, Trivandrum, Chandigarh, Lucknow, Coimbatore, Surat, Calicut, Visakhapatnam, Vijayawada, Shimla, Agra, Jhansi, Gwalior, Vapi, Baroda and Goa. Moreover, the Tamil Nadu facility is also expected to become VinFast’s future EV production hub. 

 

Also Read: Vinfast Ties Up With MyTVS For Vehicle Service And Charging In India

Moreover, the Haiphong-based carmaker has also partnered with ancillary OEMs such as RoadGrid, myTVS, and Global Assure to create a nationwide charging and after-sales service network, apart from BatX Energies, for battery recycling, rare metal recovery, and end-of-life battery repurposing. A total of 500 million USD investment is made by the Vingroup JSC aiming to produce 150,000 vehicles annually once fully operational, while also, creating approximately 3,500 direct jobs in the country.

 

Also Read: VinFast VF7 Electric SUV Spotted On Test Ahead Of India Launch

Speaking on the occasion, Pham Sanh Chau, CEO of VinFast Asia, said: “We are deeply encouraged by the overwhelming support from Indian consumers at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo. It reaffirmed the country’s readiness and enthusiasm for sustainable mobility solutions. The VF 6 and VF 7 represent our vision of bringing world-class EVs tailored to local needs, and we’re confident that Indian customers will find these models not only competitive, but truly inspiring.”

As for the cars, the VF6 is a B-segment electric SUV which is slightly smaller than the Hyundai Creta EV – which it will be squarely aiming at. With 59.6kWh battery pack, and around 200bhp/310Nm, the VF6 is expected to offer a range of (NEDC cycle) of up to 460 km while the stricter WLTP range is claimed to be around 380 km.

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Bajaj Pulsar N150 Delisted From Official Website

Bajaj Auto has silently removed the Pulsar N150 from its official website. With this, the Pulsar N lineup now comprises only three models: the Pulsar N125, N160, and N250. The N150 bridged the gap between the N125 and N160, both in terms of pricing and specifications, and bore a close resemblance to the N160 in design. 

  

Bajaj updated the N150 last year alongside the N160. It received new colour options and a digital console with Bluetooth connectivity. It was offered in two variants: the base model without connectivity features, which was priced at Rs 1.25 lakh, and the top-spec version with Bluetooth features priced at Rs 1.31 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi). 

 

Also Read: 2025 Bajaj Pulsar NS400Z First Ride Review

  

On the powertrain front, the Pulsar N150 featured a 150 cc engine producing 14.3 bhp and 13.5 Nm of torque, paired with a 5-speed gearbox. 

  

As of now, Bajaj has not officially stated the reason for its removal. While it could be discontinued, it remains to be seen if an updated version will be rolled out.  

 

In other news, Bajaj Auto recently launched the updated Pulsar NS400Z in India at a price tag of Rs 1.92 lakh (ex-showroom). With this update, the NS400Z gets a bump in its power output and upgraded cycle parts.  

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Yamaha FZ-X Hybrid Launched At Rs 1.50 Lakh

Yamaha has expanded its hybrid motorcycle lineup in India with the launch of the FZ-X Hybrid, priced at Rs 1.50 lakh (ex-showroom). Positioned above the standard FZ-X, the new model features a Matte Titan (matte green with golden wheels) colour scheme and gets a full colour TFT display. 

Also Read: Yamaha FZ-S Fi Hybrid Launched in India at Rs 1.45 Lakh; Gets New 4.2-inch TFT Display

The FZ-X Hybrid has the same 149 cc engine found in the standard model. However, it now incorporates Yamaha’s Smart Motor Generator (SMG) system, which features an integrated starter generator (ISG). The motorcycle is also equipped with a Stop-and-Start System (SSS), which automatically shuts off the engine when stationary and restarts it with a clutch press. The engine continues to produce 12.2 bhp and 13.3 Nm of torque. 

 

Also Read: Yamaha XMax Hybrid Scooter Concept Unveiled

 

 

Aside from the addition of hybrid tech, it also gets a new 4.2-inch full-colour TFT display. The instrument cluster supports smartphone connectivity via the Yamaha Y-Connect app and features turn-by-turn navigation powered by Google Maps. It also offers real-time directions, road names, intersection alerts, and other essential route data.  

  

At Rs 1.50 lakh, the FZ-X Hybrid is priced Rs 20,000 higher than the standard FZ-X (Rs 1.20 lakh) and Rs 5,000 above the recently launched FZ-S Hybrid (Rs 1.45 Lakh). 

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Hyundai Aura S AMT Launched At Rs 8.08 Lakh

Hyundai has updated the variant line-up of the Aura subcompact sedan with the addition of the S automated manual transmission (AMT) variant. Priced at Rs 8.08 lakh (ex-showroom), the S AMT brings down the starting price for the Aura AMT by about Rs 87,000. The subcompact sedan was previously only offered with an AMT option on the second-from-top SX+ trim priced at Rs 8.95 lakh (ex-showroom).

 

Also read: Hyundai Inster EV Awarded Four-Star Crash Safety Rating By Euro NCAP
 

In terms of features, the S AMT gets all the kit from its manual counterpart, including 6 airbags, ABS, tyre pressure monitoring, LED DRLs, footwell lighting, 2 DIN audio system with Bluetooth connectivity, remote locking, electric adjust wing mirrors and front and rear power windows.

 

Also read: 641 bhp Hyundai Ioniq 6 N Debuts At Goodwood Festival Of Speed
 

The AMT additionally also offers kit such as power folding wing mirrors, turn indicators integrated into the wing mirrors, electronic stability control and hill start assist. The latter two were previously available only in the SX, SX+ and SX(O) trims.

Also read: Hyundai Creta Tops Sales Charts In June, Becomes Bestseller For Third Time In 2025
 

Moving to the powertrain, you still get the familiar 1.2-litre petrol engine paired with a 5-speed AMT unit.

 

Coming to the competition, the Aura goes up against the likes of the Honda Amaze and Maruti Suzuki Dzire.  

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Race-Ready Lamborghini Temerario GT3 Drops Hybrid Tech; Make Race Debut In 2026

Lamborghini has unveiled the race-spec Temerario GT3 as it looks to take its V8 supercar onto the racetrack in 2026. Set to make its race debut at the Sebring 12 Hours in March 2026, the Temerario GT3 gets extensive changes over its road-going counterpart in an effort to shave weight and meet GT3 regulations, including deleting the hybrid system in its entirety. 

 

Also read: 907 BHP Lamborghini Temerario Debuts With Twin-Turbo V8 Hybrid Powertrain
 

Starting with the chassis, the aluminium spaceframe of the Temerario has been modified to feature easily removable front and rear subframes, along with being lightened and strengthened even further. The subframes themselves have also undergone modifications compared to the road car, with all the extra supports and braces for the hybrid system deleted. The central chassis has also been modified with an FIA GT3-spec roll cage to meet regulations.

 

Additionally, while the Temerario GT3 may look very similar to the road car, Lamborghini says that the bodyshell is entirely different. The Italian exotic car maker says that the entire GT3’s body shell is made from carbon composite materials designed to be quickly replaced should the need arise. The front and rear ends are made from a single piece each, with even the vehicle’s lighting featuring quick connectors for easy plugging and unplugging. Even the carbon composite underfloor has been designed to be easily replaceable mid-race when the car is raised on jacks.

 

Also read: Lamborghini Temerario Launched In India At Rs 6 Crore
 

Of-course, the aerodynamics of the race car has been revised as well. There is a larger rear diffuser, redesigned front bumper with a large splitter, new ducting and venting for improved aerodynamics and cooling, and the large GT3-spec rear wing.

 

Coming to the powertrain, the only recognisable component from the road-going Temerario is the twin-turbocharged V8 engine. To meet GT3 regulations, Lamborghini has ripped out the road car’s strong hybrid system replete with the battery and front electric motors. The engine itself also gets modifications, including new, smaller turbochargers, redesigned radiators and intakes and a new compressor. Lamborghini says that the engine has also been recalibrated to make peak power over a wider powerband. Peak engine power now stands at 543 bhp (subject to balance of performance) compared to the road car's 789 bhp. Power is sent to the rear wheels via a 6-speed transverse-mounted gearbox. 

 

Also read: Revuelto-Inspired Ducati Panigale V4 Lamborghini Unveiled
 

The GT3 also gets a new suspension set-up featuring new 6-way dampers from KW – also used in the company’s SC63 LMDh project. The new suspension has also been designed with easy assembly and disassembly in mind, while the race car also gets a bespoke hydraulic power steering unit.

 

The cabin also gets extensive changes from the road car, dropping all the luxury trimming to save weight and featuring FIA regulation switchgear and controls along with a race seat with harnesses. 

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Car Insurance Renewal Made Simple: A Beginner’s Guide for 2025

Getting car insurance renewed is something that seems simple at first. But omitting crucial steps might drive up costs, reduce coverage, or cause undue stress. Better policy structures and online tools have made car insurance renewal easier in 2025. But what to check and when to be alarmed enough to seek help is still worth understanding. This guide will walk you through the process so that you can renew your policy with a clear mind. 

 

Know When Your Policy Expires

 

The beginning of being able to control your car insurance is knowing precisely when it ends. Too many fall into the trap of overlooking it, and only find out that their cover has lapsed. Driving without insurance is risky. It’s also illegal and may be difficult if you have to file a claim.

 

Set a notification far ahead of the expiration date. 2-3 weeks' lead time is usually ok. A large number of insurers also send email or SMS alerts, which can be convenient reminders to kick off the renewal process. 

 

Review Your Current Coverage 

 

Before you renew it, you should compare your current policy with other offers. Has your daily commute changed? Are you driving more or less than last year? Did you do any modifications to your car that might need more coverage? 

 

Even the most minor tweak could influence how much and what type of policy you need. If you have only been buying third-party liability insurance, now is the time to think about moving up to a comprehensive insurance plan that has wider coverage. 

 

Compare Plans and Insurance Providers 

 

Before you renew, it’s always worth investigating alternate insurance options. Your current insurer may no longer have the lowest-cost coverage for the level of protection you need. Compare plans on popular insurance comparison websites. 

 

Don’t just go for the lowest premium. Also, check on add-ons such as zero depreciation cover, engine protection, and roadside assistance. A provider’s claim settlement ratio and customer service quality should also influence your decision. 

 

Understand the Value of Add-Ons 

 

Add-ons are additional coverages that extend beyond your basic insurance policy. They will cost you extra, but in many cases, they are worth it. Here are a few add-ons that are popular for good reasons: 

 

• Zero Depreciation Cover: No depreciation of car parts is deducted at the time of any claim. 
• Roadside Assistance: Provides you with emergency assistance in the event your vehicle breaks down. 
• Engine Protection Cover: Beneficial for flood-prone locations. 
• No Claim Bonus Protection: Allows you to keep your bonus even if you need to make a small claim once. 

Choose the add-ons that are relevant to your driving style and area. 

 

Check and Apply Your No Claim Bonus (NCB) 

 

Made no claims during the previous policy period? You are eligible for a special discount. This grows annually, as long as you don't make a claim. It can get up to 50% over time. 

 

You can also carry forward your NCB in case you change insurers. But you would have to approach your insurer for an official document in order to do so. Using the NCB during renewal can bring down premium costs.  

 

Avoid Letting Your Policy Lapse 

 

NCB is the discount on the premium if you have not claimed in the previous policy period. The discount is applied to the base rate and accumulates for subsequent claim-free years. Maximum benefit can go up to 50%. 

 

How to protect and use NCB: 

 

• Inform your new insurer if switching companies 
• Request a NCB certificate from your current insurer 
• Apply the NCB during your next policy renewal 
• Avoid raising small claims to preserve your discount 

 

Renewing Online Saves Time 

 

Online renewal is now one of the fastest and easiest ways. Most insurance companies provide an easy-to-use online portal where you can compare plans, pay your premium, and receive your policy documents in a matter of minutes. This approach spares you the paper chase, and can even make you eligible for online-only discounts. 

 

Print a copy for your car, and carry a digital copy on your phone when your policy is renewed. Having both editions gives you peace of mind for any occasion you may need to prove you have insurance. 

 

Conclusion 

 

Renewing the insurance policy of your vehicle doesn’t need to be complicated. Just don’t rush and do a bit of careful reviewing. Always remember to go ahead with the renewal before expiry for added benefits.  

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Hyundai Inster EV Awarded Four-Star Crash Safety Rating By Euro NCAP

European crash testing agency Euro NCAP has put the all-electric Hyundai Inster through its paces, awarding it a four-star crash safety rating. The all-electric derivative of the Casper sold in the South Korean market, the Inster, is one of Hyundai’s most affordable EVs in Europe and made its debut in mid-2024.

 

Also read: 641 bhp Hyundai Ioniq 6 N Debuts At Goodwood Festival Of Speed
 

Starting with the adult occupant rating, the Inster secured a 70 per cent score. Euro NCAP said that the body shell remained stable during frontal offset impact testing and offered good to marginal levels of protection to adult occupants. The agency, however, noted that the driver’s head ‘bottomed out’ the airbag, thus causing the SUV to drop points. In a full width frontal impact test, the Inster provided good protection to the head and legs of adult occupants in the front and rear seat though forces exerted on the chest saw the chest protection rating stay at marginal.

In the lateral impact testing, the Inster provided between marginal and good levels of protection in the side barrier and pole impact tests. The EV, however, was penalised for the driver door unlatching during the side barrier impact test. Excursion control (the extent to which a body is thrown to the other side of the vehicle during side impact) was poor. Euro NCAP noted that the Inster came with a centre airbag and offered good protection from passenger-to-passenger impact injuries, but the score was not considered given its poor side excursion protection and unlatched door during side impact testing.

 

Also read: Hyundai Creta Tops Sales Charts In June, Becomes Bestseller For Third Time In 2025
 

In terms of rear-end collisions, the front seats offered good protection from whiplash injuries, though the rear occupants were only offered marginal protection.

Moving to child occupant protection, the Inster received an 81 per cent score offering good to adequate levels of protection to the 6-year-old and 10-year-old dummies in case of frontal impacts. The EV, however, dropped points in lateral testing with Euro NCAP noting that the 10-year-old dummy’s chest recorded ‘accelerations above Euro NCAP’s threshold’ thus securing a poor rating. The Inster secured a good score for the passenger airbag deactivation system, though Euro NCAP noted that the vehicle lacked a system to warn the driver of an infant being left in the back seat.

 

Also read: Hyundai Verna SX+ Launched At Rs 13.79 Lakh 
 

The Inster secured a 70 per cent score for Vulnerable Road User protection with Euro NCAP noting that the EV offered good protection to the road user's head save for on reinforced surfaces such as the A-pillar and the windshield beams. Pelvis protection was rated as poor across the vehicle’s front, while protection to the legs was rated as good. Euro NCAP also noted that the vehicle's autonomous braking system (AEB) performed adequately, though the vehicle offered no protection against ‘dooring’ - opening the door into the path of an approaching cyclist. 

The car's ADAS system meanwhile secured a 67 per cent score. Euro NCAP said that the system performed adequately in the tests though the autonomous emergency braking system did drop points for a poor showing when tested against a vehicle crossing a junction. 

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EVs As CVs – Citroen Evaluating A Parallel Idea

French marque Citroen has been building automobiles since the early 1900s. But its first commercially produced electric vehicle came more than a century later. Interestingly, it was for its newest market – India. And the car is the eC3.

 

Also Read: Citroen C3 Sport Edition Launched In India At Rs 6.44 Lakh

 

The hatchback, made on the C-Cubed, made-for-India platform, was built keeping multiple powertrains in mind, including battery power. Released in a record time of less than a year since the launch of its gasoline version, the eC3 was presented as a no-frills mobility option for urban India. The no-frills part may not have gone exactly well with private car owners, but intrigued fleet owners. A low entry price, lots of space despite being an entry-level hatchback and low running costs – especially with the battery-operated version – made it a sensible pick for commercial people transportation.

Since then, the brand's global range has seen a few more electrics, starting with the battery-powered quadricycle Ami, eC4 hatchback, eC4 X fastback and eSpaceTourer MPV. As the demand for EVs as personal mobility keeps fluctuating globally, the uptake for commercial-use EVs has been steady. More so, in India, where not every car owner has access to set up personal charging stations at their residence or office, which is important to make it financially viable.

 

Also Read: Citroen Offers Benefits Up To Rs. 2.80 Lakh On Select Models To Celebrate 4th Anniversary In India

 

However, the fast-charging network is growing rapidly, making it practical for fleet operators as they can afford the slightly higher running costs compared to home chargers. Citroen India sees potential to make the most of it.

 

And amongst their current international range of EVs, the eSpaceTourer is being seen as a potential model for India. An MPV with three rows and flexibility of seating a minimum of 6 and a maximum of 9 passengers, plus a 700-litre luggage room, could make sense for VIP travel or airport runs for fleet operators who currently have very limited options. 

For reference, the eSpaceTourer is a full-sized people carrier with a 74KWh battery pack and a range of 350-400km. In France, it is sold in an XL size that’s longer than a Kia Carnival, Toyota Vellfire or even the recently-unveiled MG M9 electric MPV. It offers more passenger room and a bigger boot, even with all seats up. We had a brief drive in the car. It has the feel of a big MPV with a very supple ride. Steering is light, and it is easy to manoeuvre. Comfort is top-notch. The interiors – all-black – are more functional than looking luxurious, but won’t put off customers if Citroen can manage to sell it without a premium, like it does with its made-for-India range. 

 

In France, eSpaceTourer XL retails for a price tag which is equivalent to just under Rs 50 lakh. With a 110% import duty on this, India price could touch Rs 1 crore, which may not be ideal but still undercut the more popular luxury MPVs, also giving Citroen India a first-mover advantage, given the product is ready.

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Rimac Nevera R Sets New EV Top Speed Record: Regains 0-400-0 Kmph Title

Rimac and breaking world records go hand in glove. Just two years after the Nevera shattered 23 performance records in a single day, the Croatian automaker has raised the bar once more. Just when it seemed the Nevera had reached its peak, Rimac introduced a more potent derivative of the hypercar named Nevera ‘R’ last year.  

 

Also Read: Listed: Top 10 Fastest Cars In The World

 

The standout achievement of the Nevera R is the reclaimed 0–400–0 kmph record and the new top speed electric production car record. For the former, Rimac has snatched back from Koenigsegg with a time of 25.79 seconds. That’s 2.04 seconds faster than the Jesko and 4.14 seconds quicker than the Nevera. As for the latter, the Never R is now the fastest production electric vehicle with a top speed of 431.45 kmph.  

 

Also Read: Maserati MCPura Unveiled At Goodwood Festival of Speed
 
Furthermore, the electric hypercar set several additional records with improved acceleration across several speed intervals compared to the original Nevera. To mention a few, it reaches 100 kmph in 1.72 seconds, an improvement of 0.09 seconds. Acceleration to 200 kmph is achieved in 3.95 seconds, 0.47 seconds quicker than the previous model, while 300 kmph comes in at 7.89 seconds, 1.33 seconds faster. At the higher end, the Nevera R records a 0–400 kmph time of 17.35 seconds, representing a 3.96-second improvement.

 

Also Read: Aston Martin Vantage S Breaks Cover With 680bhp And Chassis Upgrades

 

For the Nevera R, Rimac introduced several mechanical and performance upgrades over the standard model. The output was increased to 2,078 bhp, up from 1,887 bhp, thanks to improvements to the battery system. The company also enhanced the braking system, retuned the suspension, and revised the steering setup for more precise handling.   
 

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Xiaomi YU9 SUV Spotted Testing In China

A heavily camouflaged SUV prototype from Chinese tech giant Xiaomi has been spotted testing in its home market. Likely to be named YU9, this will become the company's third vehicle offering, following the SU7 electric sedan and the YU7 SUV. For the latter, Xiaomi recently made headlines for securing over 2.89 lakh orders within just one hour of announcing its prices in China.

 

Also Read: Xiaomi YU7 Launched In China; Costs As Much As A Mahindra XEV 9e 

 

Fresh spy shots of the YU9 confirm it to be a full-size SUV and available in six- or seven-seat configurations, which, if accurate, will make it a first for Xiaomi’s lineup. The front end appears to share similarities with the YU7, featuring an upright hood and a roof-mounted sensor, which hints at the inclusion of advanced driver-assistance systems.  

 

Moreover, unlike the company’s existing all-electric models, the YU9 is expected to feature an extended-range hybrid powertrain. This setup is reported to combine a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine with a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system. The hybrid configuration could offer a combined range of up to 1,500 kilometres when factoring in both the battery and the engine-based range extender.  

 

Also Read: Xiaomi SU7 Ultra Launched In China; Track Package & Nürburgring Limited Edition Introduced

 

Although the interior remains under wraps, there will be no shortage of tech, and it is likely to be similar to the SU7. This may include a large central touchscreen, a rotatable digital gauge cluster, and the HyperOS operating system, which is Xiaomi’s in-house software.  
 
The YU9 is expected to make its debut in China in 2026.  

 

Image Source

 

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VinFast VF6 And VF7 Bookings To Open On July 15: To Be Available In 13 States Initially

Vietnamese electric vehicle manufacturer VinFast is set to begin its India innings later this year. The carmaker will initially launch VF6 and VF7 SUVs in the Indian market with bookings set to open on July 15, 2025. Additionally, VinFast Auto India has entered into dealer partner agreements with 13 dealer groups, covering 32 dealerships across 27 cities nationwide. 

 

Also Read: Vinfast Ties Up With MyTVS For Vehicle Service And Charging In India

 

The initial rollout will focus on cities including Delhi, Gurugram, Noida, Chennai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Pune, Jaipur, Ahmedabad, Kolkata, Cochin, Bhubaneshwar, Trivandrum, Chandigarh, Lucknow, Coimbatore, Surat, Calicut, Visakhapatnam, Vijayawada, Shimla, Agra, Jhansi, Gwalior, Vapi, Baroda, and Goa. VinFast plans to establish a total of 35 dealerships across India by the end of the calendar year 2025. Each facility will include showrooms, service workshops, and spare parts centres. 

 

Also Read: VinFast VF7 Electric SUV Spotted On Test Ahead Of India Launch
 

As part of its expansion, the company has formed other partnerships to aid its operations. This includes an alliance with Global Assure to offer 24/7 roadside assistance, call centre services, and mobile service support. Additionally, VinFast is collaborating with myTVS and RoadGrid to develop a nationwide EV charging and service network. 

 

Also Read: VinFast To Offer Mobile EV Charging Services In India

 

Production of the VF7 C-segment crossover will begin at VinFast’s upcoming manufacturing facility in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu, followed by the VF6 compact SUV. The company also plans to introduce the entry-level VF3 SUV to India in early 2026.  

 

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