BYD Files Lawsuit Over Denza Brand Rights in indonesia Ahead of Market Launch
Jakarta, January 19, 2025 – As BYD prepares to launch its premium electric vehicle brand, Denza, in Indonesia this month, the company has found itself embroiled in a legal battle over the brand’s trademark rights. BYD Company Limited has filed a lawsuit against PT Worcas nusantara Abadi (WNA), a local entity, for allegedly infringing on the Denza brand name.
Denza, originally a joint venture between BYD and Mercedes-Benz, was established in 2010 with both companies holding equal 50% stakes. However, in September 2024, BYD acquired full ownership of the brand, marking a significant shift in its strategy to dominate the electric vehicle (EV) market. The brand is set to make its Indonesian debut on January 22, 2025, with plans to introduce its flagship models, including the Denza D9 MPV, which has already gained attention in other markets like Malaysia [[1]].The legal dispute stems from PT WNA’s registration of the Denza trademark in Indonesia. According to the Ministry of Law and Human Rights’ Intellectual Property Database, PT WNA submitted the Denza brand name on July 3, 2023, with protection valid until july 3, 2033.BYD, on the other hand, began its request for the Denza trademark on August 8, 2024, but the status of its application remains pending on the DJKI (Directorate General of Intellectual Property) website.
BYD has taken the matter to the Central Jakarta Commercial Court, filing a lawsuit under case number 1/Pdt.Sus-HKI/Merek/2025/PN Niaga Jkt.Pst on January 3, 2025. The company argues that Denza is a globally recognized brand and accuses PT WNA of acting in “bad faith” by registering a trademark that is “similar in essence and/or in its entirety” to BYD’s well-known brand.The lawsuit outlines ten key demands, including:
- Declaring BYD as the first registrant and legal owner of the Denza trademark.
- Canceling PT WNA’s registration of the Denza brand.
- Ordering PT WNA to pay all court costs.
BYD’s legal team emphasizes that the Denza brand has gained international recognition,especially through its premium EV offerings like the Denza D9,which has been reviewed extensively by automotive experts [[2]]. The company’s aggressive stance reflects its commitment to protecting its intellectual property as it expands into new markets.
Despite the legal hurdles, BYD remains optimistic about its Indonesian launch. The Denza brand is expected to cater to the growing demand for premium EVs in the region, leveraging BYD’s reputation as a leader in the EV industry.
Key Points at a glance
| Aspect | Details |
|—————————|—————————————————————————–|
| Denza Ownership | Fully owned by BYD as September 2024. |
| Indonesian Launch | Scheduled for January 22, 2025. |
| Trademark Dispute | BYD vs. PT WNA over Denza brand rights. |
| Legal Case | Filed at Central jakarta Commercial Court (Case No. 1/Pdt.Sus-HKI/merek/2025/PN Niaga Jkt.Pst). |
| BYD’s Demands | Cancellation of PT WNA’s trademark registration and recognition of BYD’s ownership. |
As the case unfolds, industry watchers are keen to see how BYD navigates this legal challenge while maintaining its momentum in the competitive EV market.for now, the company has declined to comment further, with Luther Panjaitan, Head of PR & Government Relations at PT BYD Motor Indonesia, yet to provide additional details.
Stay tuned for updates on this developing story as BYD prepares to make its mark in Indonesia with the Denza brand.
(admin/rgr)
BYD vs. PT WNA: Legal Battle Over Denza Brand Rights in Indonesia
Table of Contents
Jakarta,January 19,2025 – As BYD prepares to launch its premium electric vehicle brand,Denza,in Indonesia this month,the company has found itself embroiled in a legal battle over the brand’s trademark rights. BYD Company Limited has filed a lawsuit against PT Worcas Nusantara Abadi (WNA), a local entity, for allegedly infringing on the Denza brand name. In this exclusive interview, we sit down with Dr. Ahmad Fauzi, an intellectual property law expert and EV industry analyst, to discuss the implications of this case and what it means for BYD’s market entry.
The Denza Brand and Its Significance
Dr. Fauzi, can you start by explaining the significance of the Denza brand and why it’s so important to BYD?
Certainly. Denza is a premium electric vehicle brand that was originally a joint venture between BYD and Mercedes-Benz.It was established in 2010, with both companies holding equal stakes. However, in September 2024, BYD acquired full ownership of the brand, signaling its ambition to dominate the premium EV market. Denza represents BYD’s commitment to innovation and quality, and its success is crucial for the company’s global expansion strategy.
The Legal Dispute: BYD vs. PT WNA
What is the core of the legal dispute between BYD and PT WNA?
The dispute centers around the registration of the Denza trademark in Indonesia. PT WNA registered the Denza brand name on July 3, 2023, with protection valid until July 3, 2033. BYD, on the other hand, filed its request for the denza trademark on august 8, 2024, but its request is still pending. BYD argues that Denza is a globally recognized brand and accuses PT WNA of acting in “bad faith” by registering a trademark that is “similar in essence and/or in its entirety” to BYD’s well-known brand.
BYD’s Legal strategy and Demands
What are the key demands BYD is making in its lawsuit?
BYD has outlined ten key demands in its lawsuit, including:
- Declaring BYD as the first registrant and legal owner of the Denza trademark.
- Canceling PT WNA’s registration of the Denza brand.
- Ordering PT WNA to pay all court costs.
These demands reflect BYD’s determination to protect its intellectual property and ensure that it can operate under the Denza brand in Indonesia without legal hindrances.
implications for BYD’s Indonesian Launch
How might this legal battle impact BYD’s planned launch of Denza in Indonesia?
The legal battle could perhaps delay BYD’s market entry or complicate its branding strategy in Indonesia. However, BYD remains optimistic and is proceeding with its launch plans. The Denza brand is expected to cater to the growing demand for premium EVs in the region, and BYD is leveraging its reputation as a leader in the EV industry to gain a foothold in this competitive market.
Key Points at a Glance
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Denza Ownership | Fully owned by BYD as of September 2024. |
| Indonesian Launch | Scheduled for January 22, 2025. |
| Trademark Dispute | BYD vs. PT WNA over Denza brand rights. |
| Legal Case | Filed at Central Jakarta Commercial Court (Case No. 1/Pdt.Sus-HKI/Merek/2025/PN Niaga jkt.pst). |
| BYD’s Demands | cancellation of PT WNA’s trademark registration and recognition of BYD’s ownership. |
Looking Ahead
What should industry watchers and consumers expect as this case unfolds?
Industry watchers should keep a close eye on the court’s decision,as it could set a precedent for how international brands protect their intellectual property in Indonesia. For consumers,the launch of Denza represents an exciting addition to the premium EV market,offering cutting-edge technology and design. Despite the legal hurdles, BYD’s commitment to the Indonesian market is clear, and the company is highly likely to continue pushing forward with its expansion plans.
Stay tuned for updates on this developing story as BYD prepares to make its mark in Indonesia with the Denza brand.
