While still massive, at 5,474 mm (215.5 in) long, Collignon said the new Studebaker sport utility will look more streamlined compared to the boxy H2, with more rake to the windshield and A-pillar, taller side windows, exterior vent modifications and no hood latches. Collignon added that Avanti had already planned to make many of these changes, lawsuit or not.
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| "We will protect [trademark] rights against anybody who attempts to infringe GM's valuable intellectual property." (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press) |
This is good news to GM, that doesn't take what it sees as plagiarism lightly. According to GM trademark attorney Chuck Ellerbrock, "GM has protectable trademark rights in the configuration of the Hummer H2, and we will protect those rights against anybody who attempts to infringe GM's valuable intellectual property."
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| The handcrafted XUV will begin limited production this fall and will sell for roughly USD$75,000. (Photo: Avanti Motor Corporation) |
GM are well versed in protecting Hummer design cues after fighting DaimlerChrysler AG who attempted to force a Hummer grille change, citing it was too close in design to the legendary seven vertical slot Jeep grille, part of the storied 4x4's design since the World War II Willys.
Avanti is said to be starting production of its Studebaker XUV this fall its Villa Rica, Georgia facility. At a base price of approximately USD$75,000 Avanti hopes to sell about 1,000 units per year.