Michelin files suit alleging design patent infringement

The Trucker News Services

11/15/2006

MONTREAL (Nov. 15, 2006) — Michelin North America (Canada) Inc. has filed a suit in the federal court of Canada against Distribution Nortop and Rechapage Nortop Richmond alleging design patent infringement.

It is part of ongoing efforts by Michelin to protect its “proprietary designs and technology investments,” the tire manufacturer stated in a news release.

In the suit, Michelin is demanding that Nortop stop importing, distributing and selling treads that allegedly infringe upon Michelin patents. “Michelin refuses to tolerate look-alike tires or retreads that trade on Michelin expertise and profit from Michelin innovation,” the Michelin release stated.

Michelin North America is headquartered in Greenville, S.C., and operates 19 manufacturing plants in 17 locations.

— The Trucker News Services