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Bajaj-TVS headlock again?

Bajaj Auto has been granted "ExhausTEC" Patent. Will TVS be forced to withdraw it's models which are using the same technology?

With the Indian Patent Office granting exclusive rights to Bajaj's "ExhausTEC" system used in their bikes, could spell trouble for TVS Motor Co. Ltd. The south Indian auto major has been using the same system to enhance engine performance of the Apache range.

The two firm were in a headlock earlier when TVS was about to launch the 125cc Flame with the digital twin spark technology. Bajaj Auto had filed a case alleging that TVS Motors had used the technology patented by it in 2002.

The court decided in favor of Bajaj Auto and TVS had to withdraw TVS Falme and re-launch the bike with a single-spark. The court ruling also barred TVS from using twin-spart technology on any of its future models.

According to Bajaj the "ExhausTEC" system significantly improves low and mid range torque in a single cylinder four stroke engine. The system involves a simple and effective method of uses an extra chamber with predetermind volume attached to the exhaust pipe.

The TVS big-wigs must be having sleepless nights as the Apache is one of their bestsellers and with the patent being granted they stand a risk of getting into another row with Bajaj. S. Ravikumar, vice-president, Bajaj Auto said that the patent has armed Bajaj with power of infringement and only time will tell what they plan to do next.

Well according to law gurus all is not over yet for TVS as they have an option to file a post-grant opposition within a year of the patent grant and challenge Bajaj's patent. Meanwhile, they can still continue to sell the Apache model questioning the very validity of the patent, and face Bajaj in the court should Bajaj file a legal suit.

[Via: BIKE]