Michelin files suit against importer of tyres violating BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 patents

A company that was allegedly importing counterfeit tyres from China is being sued by the North American operation of Michelin. The lawsuit states that the tyres at issue are in contravention with the patents for the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 tyres.

The action is being taken against Black Bear and Tri-Ace Wheel & Tire Corporation of Houston. Black Bear is the affiliate of Tri-Ace in the USA. The lawsuit is filed in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas, Houston Division, under the case: Michelin North America, Inc. v. Tri-Ace Wheel & Tire Corporation, case no. 4:19-cv-04884. 

It is alleged that Black Bear’s All-Terrain II tyre from Tri-Ace, has a tread design that is almost identical to that of the BFGoodrich tyres and has virtually all of the same features as those protected by the All-Terrain T/A KO2 patents.

“Today’s KO2 is unmatched for driver loyalty, cultural off-road relevance and expert recommendations. The product and its legacy represent the achievement of many years of technical development in the Michelin organisation,” said Harold Phillips, global general manager for Michelin’s BFGoodrich Tires brand. “Many competitors have tried and failed to match its capabilities. Michelin will aggressively defend KO2 against Chinese impostors, and any illegal use of our intellectual property.”