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  Owning a Batmoble
 From: Wayne | Posted: 3/8/2005 12:46:34 PM |

Owning a Batmoble

So is it legal(?) to own the batmobile replica?

On one hand I'm hearing all these WB horror stories and on the other hand I am seeing few experts(with their replicas) post some valuable information here.

I'll take any one of these anyday



 From: Kevin | Posted: 3/8/2005 12:51:02 PM |

RE: Owning a Batmoble

At this time the patent has expired on the car. It is not illegal to own or drive the car. But you cannot sell copies, call it a Batmobile or show it for profit without bringing the wrath of WB. They still own the right to the word Batmobile and Batman and or it's likeness.

Kevin



 From: Tim | Posted: 3/8/2005 1:39:17 PM |

RE: Owning a Batmoble

The "likeness" of the '89 batmobile was protected by the design patent, so do you know how that works? In theory, I suppose someone could create a vehicle, call it a "Blackbird" and do what ever you want with it. If this car happens to look similar or exactly like the '89 Batmobile it doesn't matter, that design is no longer protected. Again, I sain "in theory". WB can threaten legal action against whomever they want. They may not win, but most people are not prepared or willing to take on such a legal battle. That's my understanding, but what do I know?...


 From: Kevin | Posted: 3/8/2005 3:36:23 PM |

RE: Owning a Batmoble

There is some patent info that I researched and was posted here and on Justin's board that explains how patents work.

Kevin



 From: www.thebatcave8k.com | Posted: 3/8/2005 5:06:24 PM |

RE: Owning a Batmoble

http://www.thebatcave8k.com/1989batmobile.htm

Yup, here it is!



 From: Tim | Posted: 3/8/2005 6:23:24 PM |

RE: Owning a Batmoble

"The patent # DES.311,882 was Applied on April 28,1989. The patent was approved on November 6, 1990 for a term of 14 years, it expires on November 6,2004. Patents CANNOT be renewed after the expiration date. The ONLY exception is when drug manufactures patent a new drug or process and is awaiting FDA approval; an extension can be applied for time lost during the approval period. Now; WB can and will take anyone to court, if they feel that their franchise is being infringed upon. By the use or misuse of there copyright name of Batmobile, Batman and so on. Copyrights have no expiration dates they last forever and can be transferred from individual or entity. Such as the bat emblem is copyright protected.

Kevin"


So is the car somehow protected by copyright?



 From: www.thebatcave8k.com | Posted: 3/8/2005 6:27:44 PM |

RE: Owning a Batmoble

Only the name BATMOBILE, and the bat images (wheel bats, etc.) However, if you REALLY want wheel bats, you can redesign them. I think it has to be like 30% different or something.


 From: Tim | Posted: 3/8/2005 6:34:15 PM |

RE: Owning a Batmoble

What is 30% different?


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