German automotive giant BMW, owner of the renowned Mini brand, is closely monitoring a trademark filed by Chinese car manufacturer BYD in Australia for its ‘Dolphin Mini’ electric car. The move has sparked interest, given the potential clash with Mini Cooper electric hatch, sharing part of its nomenclature.
Legal representatives for Mini Australia are currently scrutinizing the trademark application for ‘BYD Dolphin Mini,’ submitted on February 8, 2024, covering categories related to cars, electric motors, and automotive goods. The Dolphin Mini, known as the Seagull in export markets like Brazil and Mexico, has recently hit the market with a price tag starting at approximately $AU32,500.
If the BYD Dolphin Mini trademark gains approval and the car is introduced in Australia, it would directly compete with Mini Cooper electric hatch. Despite the Australian distributor EVDirect’s assertion that there are no plans to sell the Seagull or Dolphin Mini in Australia, the legal review by Mini Australia reflects a proactive approach to safeguarding their brand.
Luke Todd, Managing Director of EVDirect, emphasized that preventing others from registering BYD’s model names is a standard business practice and doesn’t confirm or rule out the introduction of a vehicle into the country.
A spokesperson for Mini Australia issued a statement to Drive, saying, “BMW Group is aware of applications from BYD related to their ‘Dolphin Mini’ in Australia. The matter is currently under review by our legal department, and they have chosen not to provide further comments on this ongoing matter.”
BMW has held the trademark for the Mini badge for over 25 years, and any potential clash with the BYD Dolphin Mini raises questions about brand integrity. The lack of certainty regarding the Dolphin Mini’s safety rating, crucial for the Australian market, adds a layer of complexity to the situation.
While BYD has confirmed plans to launch four new models in Australia, including the Seal U mid-size plug-in hybrid SUV and a new dual-cab ute, the fate of the Dolphin Mini remains uncertain in the Australian market.
