According to the Greek court, “an informed buyer will not confuse the Noble and the Smart Fortwo”.
A Greek court ruled in favor of Daimler’s dismissal of its lawsuit against a Chinese copy the Smart fortwo.
This ends the long legal battle that began when Daimler prevented Shuanghuan displaying the Noble at Bologna Motor Show 2007. The car was eventually allowed to be sold in Europe in 2008, but Daimler continued to exert pressure. Shuanghuan promoted the Noble with the slogan “Smarter then the rest”.
According to the Greek court, “an informed buyer will not confuse the Noble and the Smart Fortwo.” The court also stated that the technical specifications of both vehicles are different, so any similarities in exterior styling are almost unavoidable because they’re mini-cars.
Although many people will find the decision absurd, it is consistent with similar legal precedents that European courts have established in their fight against an influx of Chinese clones.
Unfortunately, most Chinese copies that reach European markets eventually fail to sell as European consumers are sceptical about their safety, quality, and reliability.