In Pictures: JLR bailiffs raid BYD Netherlands offices in Defender copycat legal battle over Ti 7 plug-in hybrid SUV

The legal dispute centres on whether BYD's boxy Ti 7 SUV copies the styling of the Land Rover Defender.

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BYD's seven-seat plug-in hybrid undercuts the Defender 110 PHEV by more than £20,000 in the UK.

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Bailiffs acting for JLR reportedly seized digital records from BYD's Netherlands offices ahead of a preliminary court ruling.

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The case could set an important precedent for how far rival makers can mimic the Defender's distinctive silhouette.

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JLR is seeking to protect the Defender's intellectual property as BYD expands its plug-in hybrid line-up in Europe.

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A preliminary court ruling on the Ti 7 infringement claim is expected in the coming weeks.

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The Defender 110 PHEV is the model against which BYD's cheaper Ti 7 is being measured in the legal battle.

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Both SUVs target buyers seeking rugged styling combined with electrified powertrains.

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BYD has not publicly commented on the raid or the status of the Dutch proceedings.

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