Court in Rio prohibits sale of 4G model vehicles from BYD
In a recent turn of events, the Brazilian court, Vara Empresarial do Rio de Janeiro, has ordered the immediate suspension of the sale of 4G technology vehicles by Chinese manufacturer BYD in Brazil. The decision comes as a result of a patent controversy involving Japanese Godo Kaisha IP Bridge, the holder of the rights to the 4G technology in question.
The patent, PI 0908287-5, is alleged to have been used by BYD as a "sales lure," according to the patent holder. The company is accused of using the technology without a license contract, a claim that BYD has yet to address publicly.
The court order prohibits the sale of automotive technology by BYD in Brazil and requires the manufacturer to stop installing the patented 4G modules. BYD is also obligated to inform the number of units sold with the equipment. The suspension order follows a request from Japanese Godo Kaisha IP Bridge.
The daily fine for non-compliance with the court order is set at R$ 20,000, initially limited to R$ 600,000. However, the exact consequences of non-compliance and the details of why the suspension order was issued are not entirely clear from the available information.
The patent in question remains valid until 2030, and the case is related to the use of this 4G technology patent by BYD. The court's decision was granted based on the "risk of damage" and "risk to the outcome of the process," as per urgent case laws.
It is essential to note that BYD has not been formally notified about the suspension of 4G technology sales in Brazil. The company has five days after notification to suspend the use of the technology.
This development is significant as it highlights the importance of intellectual property rights in the global automotive industry. Non-compliance with court orders or regulations can lead to legal penalties, fines, and potential damage to a company's reputation or business operations.
As the situation unfolds, it is advisable to consult more detailed legal or news sources directly related to this case for a comprehensive understanding of the full context and consequences.
The patent dispute, centered around PI 0908287-5, has led to accusations against BYD for using 4G technology without a license contract, as claimed by Japanese Godo Kaisha IP Bridge. The court order mandates BYD to cease the sale and installation of the patented 4G modules in Brazil, and to disclose the number of units sold with the equipment.
In the light of the court's decision, intellectual property rights in the global automotive industry are being emphasized, with potential legal penalties, fines, and damage to a company's reputation or business operations as possible consequences for non-compliance with court orders or regulations.