Industry Report: Nissan to Sue Audi Over the Letter Q

Of course, highly unlikely legal opportunities never stopped Nissan before. The automaker attempted to use legal means to

What the Japanese automaker shouldn't forget is that another German brand, Mercedes-Benz, has so far willingly shared its SL designation with Nissan's Altima, Maxima, Quest and Murano (shown) models. This may have to change. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

expropriate the internet URL Nissan.com from a person who's actual name is Nissan, and failed of course. It was the classic David vs. Goliath scenario, and just like David, Nissan, the man, prevailed. Now if Americans want to check out Nissan, the automaker's website, they need to type in NissanUSA.com or the company's initial alternative URL, NissanDriven.com.

What the Japanese automaker shouldn't forget is that another German brand, Mercedes-Benz, which has so far willingly shared its SL designation with Nissan's Altima, Maxima, Quest and Murano models that use it as a trim level descriptive, could very well be forced to change its mind if trademark infringement laws start regulating single letters. Audi has used the S designation longer than Nissan too, which may mean that it will no longer be available for the Japanese automaker's use.

No Volkswagen or Audi spokespeople have commented on the Nissan lawsuit, but just because the automaker is being quiet doesn't mean its about to give up on the letter Q before the Q7 launches at the Frankfurt auto show

If Nissan were to win its case, either in court or by settlement, it could start a rash of similar cases. Would Mazda have to fight BMW for the number 3, 5 or 6? (Photo: BMW Canada)

this fall - the Q5 is expected to debut in 2006 as a 2007 model. Audi has already invested time and money in its Q designation, and it would be costly to make changes now. Not only that, but on principle it would be wise for the automaker, and all automakers to fight any attempt to trademark single letter or number designations. If Nissan were to win its case, either in court or by settlement, it could start a rash of similar cases. Who knows? Would Mazda fight BMW for the number 3, 5 or 6? Would Cadillac have to relinquish its performance-oriented V-series because it doesn't sit right with Volvo?