Context: Considering that there are numerous cellular standard-essential patent (SEP) holders and many dozens of car brands, SEP enforcement against automakers is relatively rare. For the most part, the problem is simply avoided by vehicle manufacturers taking an Avanci 4G or 5G license. 225 million vehicles have been licensed through Avanci, and just two days ago it became known that two major implementers of standards, Lenovo and Quectel, joined as licensors (July 17, 2025 ip fray article). This suggests that generally there is a consensus among both licensors and licensees that Avanci’s terms are fair, reasonable and non-discriminatory (FRAND).
What’s new: Two lawsuits have recently been filed by 4G SEP holders against truck maker PACCAR. In the Eastern District of Texas, L2 Mobile Technologies (an affiliate of the Longhorn licensing firm) is suing PACCAR over two 4G SEPs. In the Landgericht München I (Munich I Regional Court), Acer is asserting a 4G SEP against PACCAR’s European DAF brand. The Munich action was filed just yesterday (Friday, July 18, 2025).
Direct impact: By remaining unlicensed, PACCAR is taking the risk of being slapped with a Texas-size damages award and/or a German injunction. It could seek bilateral licenses from these companies or take an Avanci license, given that both Acer and Longhorn make their patents optionally available via Avanci.
Wider ramifications: Munich is presently the world’s leading SEP injunction venue, a position that is reinforced by the court’s 7th Civil Chamber’s new FRAND guidance (July 18, 2025 ip fray article), according to which high SEP royalties are desirable from an innovation policy perspective and unlicensed implementers must act swiftly and cooperatively if they wish to be deemed willing licensees. Under that guidance, PACCAR would actually already have to be making payments to SEP holders, but at least it would have to hurry up now and start sending checks ASAP.
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