Janice R. Andrews
The successful dismissal of a London case filed by Tesla by U.S. technology firm InterDigital and patent licencing platform Avanci represents a significant legal breakthrough. The massive electric car company, headed by Elon Musk, applied for a patent before preparing to introduce 5G-capable cars in the UK.
In 2023, Tesla filed a lawsuit in London’s High Court with the goal of establishing fair, reasonable, and non-discriminatory (FRAND) terms for the use of patents licenced by Avanci and owned by several parties, including InterDigital. Citing the company’s imminent ambitions to launch 5G vehicles in the UK, Tesla’s legal team underscored the seriousness of the situation.
However, Tesla’s request for a court ruling on FRAND terms was contested by InterDigital and Avanci. Judge Timothy Fancourt of the High Court declared on Monday that Tesla’s application for a licence ought to be rejected, ruling in favour of InterDigital and Avanci. Tesla intends to pursue its claim to cancel three of InterDigital’s patents in spite of this setback.
This decision is a significant turning point in the ongoing legal disputes around 5G technology and how the auto industry will use it. The ruling emphasises how difficult and complicated it is for businesses to obtain the required licences for cutting-edge technologies. Resolving patent issues will be an essential part of Tesla’s strategy as it develops new products and expands its services.
