Jaguar Land Rover has lost a major legal battle with another British car manufacturer after judges ruled that the shape of the iconic SUV was not significantly different to other 4x4s to justify trademarks.

JLR had lodged attempts to trademark the design of their distinctive Defender 4x4, the move coming after ‘new kid on the block’ Ineos announced their plans to build their own version of the Defender back in 2016. Launched by Sir Jim Ratcliffe, Ineos Automotive have revealed ambitious plans to style an all-new 4x4 named the Grenadier which will enter the market in 2021.

JLR and Ineos have been at loggerheads since Land Rover r underlined their plans to protect the old-style Defender shape, but Ineos objected despite an online poll suggesting almost a third of drivers recognised the old shape of the Defender.

Jaguar Land Rover plan to appeal the decision from Intellectual Property Office saying in a statement that the company’s heritage is at risk.

“The Defender is an iconic vehicle which is part of Jaguar Land Rover’s past, present and future,” the statement said.

“Its unique shape is recognised around the world, with the heritage shape being protected in other key markets.

“Protecting our intellectual property is something we take very seriously, so we are appealing the Intellectual Property Office ruling on the protection of the Defender shape trademarks.”

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