LG Energy Solution Turns to Patent Fees in Dispute With Chinese Battery Rivals

LG Energy Solution has begun issuing patent royalty invoices to Chinese battery manufacturers, signaling a shift from courtroom battles to a licensing-based approach in its ongoing intellectual property dispute with overseas competitors.

The South Korean battery maker holds a portfolio of patents covering core lithium-ion cell and pack technologies, including electrode and separator designs and battery management methods that help improve safety and extend pack life. Rather than pursuing only infringement lawsuits, the company is now asking Chinese producers to pay for the right to use that protected technology.

Details of the individual patents involved, the size of the requested fees and the specific companies that received the bills have not been disclosed. LG Energy Solution has not issued a public statement on the matter, and it remains unclear how the Chinese manufacturers will respond to the licensing demands.