Chinese copycat row

BMW and DaimlerChrysler are threatening legal action over Chinese produced vehicles, which they allege are copies of their models.

The dispute centres on Chinese manufacturer, Shuanghuan Automobile. Daimler claims the Shuanghuan Noble model is too similar to its Smart Fortwominicar and is threatening action if the Chinese car is exhibited at next month’s motor show in Frankfurt.

BMW objects that the Shuanghuan CEO too closely resembles its X5. The western car manufacturer is also considering legal action against the importer of the Shuanghuan vehicle, China Automobile Deutschland.

Mike Lynd, a Partner at Marks & Clerk, a firm of patent and trademark attorneys, argues that the western manufacturers are mainly concerned about their position in Europe.

He commented: ‘What is striking about this row is that the battleground is essentially over Europe, not China. The issues that really seem to be rattling the automobile stalwarts are similar cars being exhibited at a key European show and the commercial activities of a Chinese importer.