After a legal battle spanning over two years, the Munich Higher Regional Court has ruled in favor of Audi in its trademark dispute with Chinese automaker Nio over model designations. The dispute centered around Nio’s use of the model names ES6, ES7, and ES8, which Audi argued could be confused with its own S models, the S6, S7, and S8.
The legal feud began in October 2021 when Nio planned to introduce its electric SUVs in Germany using the ES6, ES7, and ES8 names, which were already in use in China. Audi raised concerns about potential confusion with its S models and filed a lawsuit with the Munich Regional Court.
Following delays, the Regional Court ruled in favor of Audi in January 2023. Nio then appealed to the Higher Regional Court, but a mediation attempt in January 2024 failed to reach a settlement. With the recent ruling by the Munich Higher Regional Court, Audi appears to have emerged as the victor in the trademark dispute.
In response to the court’s decision, Nio expressed disappointment but emphasized that it would continue to focus on its users by offering smart premium electric vehicles and services across Europe. The company did not immediately indicate whether it would pursue further legal options, such as appealing to the Federal Court of Justice.
Audi welcomed the court’s ruling, with a spokesperson stating, “We welcome the tenor of today’s judgement by the Munich Higher Regional Court and the associated protection of our brands.”
While Nio has not officially confirmed whether it will continue legal action, it is considered unlikely. The Chinese automaker has already renamed its model ranges from ‘ES’ to ‘EL’ for the European market, addressing the potential confusion highlighted in the dispute.
The ruling marks a significant milestone in the legal dispute between Audi and Nio, providing clarity on the use of model designations in the European market.
