Resurrection of the Scat Pack Has Chrysler Embroiled In A Trademark Dispute

With Dodge bringing back the Scat Pack packages for a number of their models, it has also brought back a dispute that dates back to 1968.

Automotive News reports that Chrysler is being sued by Scat Enterprises Inc., for infringing on their 50-year-old 'Scat' trademark. The suit revives a dispute between the two companies that dates back to 1968.

In 1968, Dodge started using the Scat Pack name on a number of their models. That same year, Scat Enterprises, a company that makes performance parts for a number of automakers including Dodge, sent a cease-and-desist letter to make Dodge stop using the name. Three years on, Dodge would stop using the name.

Jump ahead to August 2013 when Chrysler tried to apply for the Scat Pack trademark at U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. The request was denied, but the automaker went ahead and revealed the Scat Pack models at the SEMA show that year.

In the suit, Scat Enterprises is asking the court to prohibit Chrysler from using the Scat; for the automaker to deliver all of the Dodge Scat Pack marketing materials, badges and other items for destruction; and monetary damages.

The brand has remained legendary in the enthusiast community since then and consumers still associate Scat Pack™ with Chrysler's vehicles, and no other business or products. Scat Enterprises, an aftermarket supplier of crankshafts, connecting rods, and rotating assemblies marketing under the term "Scat", has never used the term "Scat Pack". Scat Enterprises' lawsuit against Chrysler over Chrysler's 2014-15 Scat Pack™ vehicles is a meritless and opportunistic attempt to hold Chrysler hostage just days before the upcoming SEMA show. Chrysler will vigorously defend itself against this attack and look to enforce its own rights in this moniker," Chrysler said in a statement.

Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)

illiam Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.