Innovation tends to promote innovation. Ever since Tesla started selling cars in 2009, people have been finding ways to enhance them. Like an oak tree’s influence in its fertile environment, many startup businesses exist today because of Tesla. Enjoying the experience of their cars, some owners saw one way or another to make that experience even better. For themselves as well as for others. This became a phenomenon of Tesla owners becoming entrepreneurs. And this series is dedicated to sharing their stories.
Elon Accessories – started with a customized glass screen protectors for the MCU
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Droplock – safety lock for the rear seats
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Abstract Ocean – started with a Model S key holder they designed and produced
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If there is anyone who should be included in this series of articles please send a message, details at bottom of this article.
Legal implications of using Tesla trademarks
For those who are thinking about starting a small business for Tesla related products and accessories, we have some legal advice from an expert.
John Tran who describes himself as an EV Patent Attorney Covering Biz & Legal News on Twitter was kind enough to provide some insight for anyone else in this community wanting to start a new business:
“Although there are limited scenarios, where you can use another’s trademark (i.e. logo, slogan, or word) without prior permission from the trademark owner (i.e. parody, fair use when describing the product/service or for educational uses etc…), the general rule is that if you are “commercializing” or “monetizing” the use of another’s trademark without permission then there exist a potential for legal issues. Thus, the use of the Tesla logo for “commercial” purposes without the prior written consent of Tesla may constitute trademark infringement and unfair competition in violation of federal and state laws and it might “supercharge” (see what I did there?) a legal headache for the unwary.
The only way for any 3rd party seller to legally use Tesla’s logo without worrying about potentially being in trouble would be to get written authorization from Tesla to do so (i.e. become an authorized reseller or licensee etc…). It’s really as simple as that. Just because a trademark owner has not sent you a cease and desist letter does not mean it is ok to use their trademarks without permission and you run the risk of the trademark owner eventually suing you for infringement and seeking remedies that include recovering monetary damages against you and also getting an injunction to stop you your actions and even seizing or destroying any infringing goods.
Is it possible that Tesla may not attempt to enforce its trademark rights against unauthorized users or may not care? Yes, that possibility exists but do you really want to run that risk? Bottom line: Ask for permission first rather than apologizing later.”
John Tran can be found on Twitter at the following usernames:
@patentjohntran and @teslaesq
Tesla Social is mostly about the social aspects of the Tesla community. There are many stories that bring the community together and have fun. Do you have a story to share? email us at: teslasocialclub@gmail.com
Any potential new Tesla owners can get free supercharging by using the following link and referral code wade34296
ts.la/wade34296
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Wade Anderson is a Model 3 performance owner, he runs the Tesla Social website and YouTube channel.