Case for violating Trade-Dress
India’s biggest Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) maker Mahindra & Mahindra lost a crucial case against Fiat Chrysler in the US. International Trade Commission (ITC) claimed that Mahindra’s off roader ‘Roxor’ violated the trade-dress of Jeep Wrangler SUV of Fiat Chrysler. ITC issued a cease and desist order (a legal order to stop an activity until further notice)
prohibiting the sales and import of the automobile.
Mahindra, however reiterated, that the vehicle under investigation for infringement (violation) was no longer in production and Roxor’s 2020 design was refreshed and carries little similarity with Jeep Wrangler.
Trade dress
It is an intellectual property right that refers to the unique characteristics that make a product stand apart. People generally identify the product by its look. Jeep Wrangler’s boxy body shape, with flat sides,
round headlight, and front grill are distinct to the brand.