It’s a known fact that Chinese knockoffs occasionally float around the automotive industry. SEMA is no exception, and this year, the feds got involved.
On Wednesday, federal marshals raided two booths owned by Chinese companies, reports Automotive News. Four Wheeler was able to capture the event on video.
They seized parts, displays and communications equipment from a complaint filed on Tuesday by Omix-ADA, a manufacturer of aftermarket Jeep parts. Omix claimed patent infringement and asserted that:
the Chinese companies were displaying and selling knock-offs of several of its patented aftermarket parts. Those parts included replacement hood latches, light mount assemblies and front grilles for the Jeep Wrangler.
Later on in the day, as part of the same investigation, six additional booths belonging to other Chinese aftermarket parts were shut down at the Automotive Aftermarket Products Expo as well.
The companies have been identified as:
Changzhou Jiulong Auto Lamps Factory, Guangzhou Vcan Electronic Technology Co., Maxgrand Ltd., Sanmak Lighting Co., Shenzen Unisun Technology Co., and Unity 4wd Accessories Co.
In its suit, Omix says that the Chinese companies infringed upon a number of its patents and trademarks when they attempted to advertise and sell their own products on the SEMA and AAPEX show floors. Omix makes the case for false designation of origin and unfair competition and demands a trial by jury.
There is a preliminary hearing set to occur on November 10.
You can read the judge’s order and the federal complaint here.
Here are some photos of the raid, sent in by a helpful reader.