Case: Re designed vehicle notaJeepcopycat

Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. once again can produce and sell its off-road Roxor vehicle after the Indian manufacturer made adjustments to the design following a federal determination in June that called the Roxor a virtual copy of the Jeep Wrangler.

The International Trade Commission modified the cease-and desist order against Ma hind rat hat a Michigan court in August said bar red the company from building the Roxor in Auburn Hills, Mich. The commission determined the post-2020 Roxor “does not infringe the Jeep Trade Dress” with its broader nose and new horizontal two-slat grille that retains the Roxor’s retro look.

The decision validates Mahindra’s redesign of the vehicle, according tothe company. “Roxor was a success fromthe beginning withoff-road enthusiasts and people with activeoutdoor lifestyles,” RickHaas, CEO of Ma hind ra Automotive North America, said .“This ‘ruggedness’ was at the heart of the redesign as we wanted an aggressive look that reflected just howtough and capable Roxor is.”

Jeep maker Fiat Chrysler Automobiles NV, however, says it is not givingupits complaint against the Roxor: “While FCA is disappointed with the Commission’s decision regarding the redesign, we believe we will be successful in appealing this decision.”

Mahindra in August placed on furlough its 100 employees at its Auburn Hills assembly plant near Fiat Chrysler’s North American headquarters. Themanufacturer will recall those workers; however, it is not yet sharing its relaunch timeline.