Lawsuits

Daimler A.G. versus Shuanghuan and its European importers

Accusation: Shuanghuan Noble (Bubble) is a copy of the Smart Fortwo.

Date: December 2008.
Court: Bologna, Italy.
Claim: Martin Motors (the importer) is forbidden to exhibit the Bubble at the Bologna Auto Show.
Temporary judgement: The court prevented Shuanghuan from showing their Bubble from making its public appearance at the Bologna Show. Martin Motors brought the Bubble to the parking lot of the Show anyway, despite the court order.

Date: May 2009.
Court: Piraeus, Greece.
Judgement: An informed buyer would not confuse the Noble with the Smart Fortwo. The Noble differs significantly in technical specification from the Smart.
Outcome: Daimler A.G. lost.