After receiving a lot of attention, the recently filed trademark infringement case brought by Ford against Ferrari over the use of the “F-150” model designation has been settled today. Naturally, no terms were disclosed, other than the public move by Ferrari of re-naming their 2011 F1 World Championship car as the“Ferrari 150° Italia” to explicitly link the numeral to the sesquicentennial anniversary of Italy’s reunification, rather than the blue oval’s pick-up truck.
From Ford’s IP management perspective, “This resolution ensures that Ford’s famous and distinctive F-150 trademark will be protected.” From Ferrari’s point of view, this case was not only “Kafkaesque,” but a bit offensive as they conclude that the name change and case dismissal “should make it clear even to the thickest of people that the name of the car is a tribute to the anniversary of the unification of our country.”
Case closed!