Tesla vs. Bingling Technology: Legal Battle in China Ensues Over Tech Secret Infringement

Tesla Shanghai has filed a lawsuit against Bingling Intelligent Technology in China on the grounds of alleged unfair competition and violation of technological secrets.

The case will be heard at the Shanghai Intellectual Property Court on October 10, according to the Shanghai Securities Journal.

Newsmax reported that Bingling Intelligent Technology is a well-known chip designer and car component producer with headquarters in Changzhou, Jiangsu province. Notably, evidence from the Chinese business data site Tianyancha indicates that a Xiaomi investment fund entity owns 11.9% of Bingling.

Tesla Wins Lawsuit Against 'Tesla Beer' Maker

The lawsuit was initiated after Tesla recently won a trademark dispute in China over the usage of the term "Tesla Beer." Zhongyin Food Co., Ltd. sought to use Tesla's name and logo to advertise its goods, which led to legal action from the electric car manufacturer owned by Elon Musk.

A judge ruled in Tesla's favor, admitting that Tesla's exclusive trademark rights had been violated, and Zhongyin was mandated to stop engaging in unfair business activities, pay a fine of ¥5 million (about $690,000), and make a public announcement, Teslarati reported.

A variety of drinks with Tesla themes, including sodas and beer, started to appear in China in 2019. These goods have nothing to do with Tesla.

When it comes to safeguarding its brand, reputation, or intellectual property rights, Tesla has been steadily developing its legal staff.

Tesla Model 3 Showcased in Beijing Car Show

Meanwhile, Tesla debuted its locally built Model 3 vehicle at a Beijing trade show. The upgraded Model 3 sedan was shown a day earlier in some nations.

The Tesla Model 3, manufactured in Shanghai, will be offered across Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. A rear display for backseat passengers is one of numerous innovations for Chinese clients, according to Reuters.

Tesla's increasing dependence on the Chinese market, where it fights for market share with well-known local EV maker BYD, is highlighted by the fact that the business debuted the new Model 3 sedan there before the United States.

Tesla debuted a flaming red variant of the car at the China International Fair for Trade in Services (CIFTIS). Sales professionals from Tesla talked with prospective customers, answering questions and offering points about the characteristics of the vehicle.

While some visitors showed excitement about the improved audio system and back display, others remarked on the rising number of available electric car alternatives, signaling increasing competition in the electric vehicle industry.

One booth visitor, Hu, said she was not persuaded to order the Tesla Model 3. "There's no special reason (to buy Tesla) because there are so many new energy vehicles," she remarked.

The new Tesla Model 3 will also be on display at the Munich auto show, showcasing the company's ongoing attempts to broaden its worldwide reach and satisfy rising customer demand for electric cars.