Stories of copyright disputes between major brands are nothing new.
From fashion labels to tech giants, companies often find themselves in legal battles over names, logos, or branding elements.
In the automotive industry, naming rights can be just as contentious.
Car manufacturers spend years developing brand identities, and a single misstep can lead to costly lawsuits or forced rebranding efforts.
When a name carries historical significance or is closely associated with a well-known franchise, the risks become even greater.
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One recent case involves a Chinese automaker facing potential legal trouble over a name that has been part of pop culture for decades.
Zeekr, a Chinese car brand owned by Geely, is preparing for its launch in the UK market.
The company, which shares a parent company with Volvo, Polestar, and Lotus, has already unveiled several electric vehicle models.
One of its latest, the Zeekr 007, has drawn attention not just for its technology but for a possible trademark violation, according to Boosted.
The issue stems from the fact that 007 is a legally protected brand in the UK, linked to the James Bond franchise created by Ian Fleming.
Reports suggest that Zeekr may be required to rename the model before selling it in the British market.
The name 007 is trademarked, and any unauthorized commercial use could lead to legal action.
Zeekr has not yet confirmed whether it will change the name or attempt to fight for the right to use it.
The Zeekr 007 is an electric sedan featuring a sleek design with a continuous front light strip and a sloping roofline. The interior includes a 15-inch OLED touchscreen, a 13-inch driver display, and a large head-up display.
The model is available in two versions, one with a single motor producing 416 horsepower and another with dual motors delivering 637 horsepower.
The car can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in under three seconds.
Geely claims the 007 can charge from 10 to 80 percent in just 10 minutes, whether equipped with a 75 kWh or 100 kWh battery.
The estimated range under China’s testing standards is 541 kilometers.
