The BMW Group has filed a lawsuit against Chinese automaker BYD in Brazil over the use of the name “Dolphin Mini” for one of its electric vehicle models. BMW argues that using the term “Mini” could mislead consumers, creating an improper association with its long-established brand, registered in multiple jurisdictions.

The case is pending before the 5th Business Court of the Capital of Rio de Janeiro and seeks to prevent what BMW alleges are acts of trademark infringement and unfair competition. The German group maintains that BYD is attempting to benefit from the goodwill associated with the MINI brand, while clarifying that it does not aim to halt BYD’s operations but to safeguard its trademark identity.

In its defense, BYD contends that BMW does not hold exclusive nominative rights over the term “MINI” in Class 12 at the Brazilian Patent and Trademark Office (BPTO), covering motor vehicles. The Chinese automaker further notes that the term is commonly used within the industry and that the BPTO rejected BMW’s previous attempt to register the standalone “MINI” trademark.

BMW’s request for an injunction was denied, with the presiding judge emphasizing the need for a more detailed examination of the arguments presented by both parties.

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