Jaguar Land Rover has accused Chinese automaker BYD of copying the Land Rover Defender in its Ti7 SUV, leading to a court battle in The Hague. The dispute centers on allegations of intellectual property infringement and reverse-engineering. This case highlights the growing tension between established automakers and their Chinese counterparts as the latter expand into global markets with competitively priced, sophisticated vehicles.
According to reports, court-ordered bailiffs seized digital records from BYD’s offices in the Netherlands in August. The raid, conducted at BYD’s premises in Schiedam and Hoofddorp, was aimed at securing evidence before it could be destroyed. JLR suspected BYD had dismantled a Defender to reverse-engineer its technology for the Ti7. BYD’s legal team called the move a “fishing expedition” and claimed excessive files were taken, while JLR’s legal advisers accused BYD of obstructing the process.
The Vehicles in Question
The BYD Ti7, a seven-seat plug-in hybrid SUV, has been on sale in China since September 2025 as the Fangchengbao Ti7. Its chunky, boxy design has drawn visual comparisons to the Defender, with some labeling it a clone. However, others note differences in design and engineering. The Ti7 is set to launch in the UK in January with a starting price of £47,995—significantly lower than the Defender’s £68,465 entry point. This price difference, over £20,000, positions the Ti7 as a more affordable alternative, though the two vehicles differ in powertrains and underlying engineering.
JLR’s case reportedly focuses on alleged reverse-engineering of the Defender’s technology, not just the Ti7’s exterior styling. A preliminary ruling is expected on November 11. The outcome will determine whether BYD must formally respond to the intellectual property infringement allegations.
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JLR’s History with Chinese Automakers
This is not JLR’s first legal clash with a Chinese automaker. In 2019, the company won a case against Jiangling Motor Corporation over a vehicle resembling the Range Rover Evoque. Despite this, JLR has collaborated with Chinese manufacturers, notably through a joint venture with Chery that revived the Freelander name as an electric vehicle brand. This dual approach, litigation and collaboration, reflects JLR’s complex relationship with China’s automotive industry.
Ironically, Chery’s Jaecoo 7, dubbed the “Temu Range Rover” for its resemblance to JLR’s luxury SUVs, has become a top-selling model in the UK. In October, it was the UK’s best-selling car for the second consecutive month and the third time this year, with 3,412 units sold. Year-to-date sales total 42,885 registrations, making it the second best-selling model in the country. This success shows the growing market presence of Chinese brands, even amid copycat accusations.
Broader Industry Implications
Chinese automakers like BYD are expanding into Europe with sophisticated vehicles at competitive prices. For JLR, the Defender is a flagship model and a key revenue driver. The legal battle demonstrates JLR’s commitment to protecting its intellectual property as Chinese rivals gain market share. A spokesperson from JLR stated, “JLR does not comment on ongoing legal proceedings,” while BYD similarly declined to comment.
