Recently, Longhorn Automotive Group LLC filed a patent infringement lawsuit (Case No. 2:26-cv-00235) in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas, alleging that entities under the Volvo Group—including Volvo Group North America, Mack Trucks, Nova Bus, and Prevost Car—have infringed upon multiple patents in their commercial truck and bus products.

Longhorn Automotive Group LLC is a U.S.-based non-practicing entity (NPE) that primarily engages in patent enforcement activities through the acquisition and management of automotive-related technology patents. Its patent portfolio focuses primarily on in-vehicle electronic systems, communication controls, and vehicle function integration.

According to the publicly filed complaint, Longhorn alleges that the defendant, Volvo, knowingly and without authorization used its patented innovations in connectivity systems, LED headlights, and mobile applications, as well as related technologies for data storage in GPS and infotainment systems, despite being aware of the validity of its patents. The patents involved and the corresponding infringement allegations are as follows:

Powertrain (US 7,513,238): Relates to direct-injection internal combustion engine technology. Longhorn points out that Volvo’s D13TC series diesel engines have unauthorizedly used the direct injection technology in its patent to improve fuel efficiency;

In-Vehicle Security and Privacy (US 8,085,192): Relates to the control of sensitive information in GPS devices. The complaint alleges that Volvo’s MyTruck App and its in-vehicle navigation system fall within the scope of the patent’s protection regarding the processing and encrypted storage of driver location data;

Intelligent Lighting System (US 8,265,353): Relates to LED headlight beam pattern technology. The LED front lighting system installed in Volvo Commercial Vehicles, featuring a specific combination of lenses and light sources, is alleged to constitute infringement.

System Monitoring and Interconnection (US 7,987,002): Relates to measurement and simulation in distributed control systems. The allegations primarily target Volvo Connect and the fleet management platform, claiming they utilize the relevant patents when monitoring the operational status of on-board electronic systems.

It is worth noting that this is not the first dispute between the two parties. As early as July 30, 2024, Longhorn had already filed another patent lawsuit against Volvo (Case No.: 2:24-cv-00603). Accordingly, Longhorn alleges that Volvo has committed willful infringement and is seeking treble damages from the court.

The case is currently pending, and Volvo has not yet publicly responded to the complaint. 

Attached: Complaint