Transferrable IP Considerations From The UK Auto Industry

Nissan's £450 million investment to produce the third-generation Leaf at its Sunderland plant represents not only a manufacturing milestone but also a significant opportunity to strengthen and expand its intellectual property portfolio. Below, I briefly look at some of the areas where IP might be possible, as this could provide lessons that transfer to your own company developments.

The Nissan Plant has been integrated with advanced technologies such as big data analytics, virtual reality, and fully automated systems, creating multiple avenues for IP development, including patents, designs and trademarks.

Their "factory of the future" will utilize an array of new technologies, such as digital mapping, intelligent big data use, and automated guided vehicles. These all may offer scope for protection via patents, such as any process optimizations or robotic integrations. Of particular intrigue is the fully automated laser welding facility delivering precision to