Intellectual Property for EV, Autonomous Systems, and Software-Defined Vehicles
BHW IP Law advises companies developing electric vehicle systems, autonomous driving technology, and software-defined vehicle components. Our attorneys assist clients in securing and asserting intellectual property rights involving vehicle electronics, sensing systems, control algorithms, and related hardware and software. We regularly work with engineering teams on technologies that integrate mobility, AI, and advanced electronics, and we help ensure those innovations are protected before public release.
Automotive and Mobility Technologies We Support
Electric Vehicle Components and Systems
We work with clients developing EV technologies such as:
- battery systems and charging architectures
- power electronics and thermal management
- vehicle energy management software
- onboard diagnostics and monitoring systems
Our team prepares and prosecutes patents covering EV hardware and software, and advises on infringement, design-around strategies, and freedom-to-operate.
Autonomous and Assisted Driving Technologies
We assist companies working on:
- perception systems (lidar, radar, camera fusion)
- localization and mapping
- path planning and decision-making algorithms
- sensor integration and vehicle communication systems
Our work includes both defending and asserting patents involving these systems, as well as post-grant challenges when competitors introduce similar technology.
Software-Defined Vehicle Architecture
We help protect innovations involving:
- over-the-air update systems
- in-vehicle operating systems
- connectivity and telematics platforms
- driver monitoring and in-cabin sensing
Our technical background allows us to work directly with engineering teams on code-based and hardware-integrated innovations.
Smart Accessories and Add-On Components
We assist clients working on accessories and aftermarket components that interface with vehicle electronics and data systems. These may include:
- advanced sensors
- driver assistance add-ons
- smart dashcams and vision modules
- connected navigation or performance systems
We advise on both patenting and defending these innovations in disputes with competitors.
IP Services for Automotive and Mobility Companies
Smart Accessories and Add-On Components
Our work spans drafting and prosecuting patents, conducting infringement and validity analyses, and representing clients in district court litigation, ITC actions, and post-grant proceedings. Experience on both sides of disputes gives us a practical understanding of how patents stand up in litigation.
Expert Declarations and Depositions
All partners at BHW IP Law have engineering backgrounds and industry experience. That technical foundation enables effective deposition and examination of opposing experts in matters involving complex automotive technologies.
Pre-Litigation Strategy and ADR
We often assist clients in resolving disputes through targeted pre-litigation efforts or in ADR settings. Clear presentations of technical issues can influence settlement positions and avoid unnecessary litigation.
Clearance, Right-to-Use, and Patentability Analyses
We conduct clearance studies and patentability assessments to help clients manage risk before launching new vehicle systems or software features.
Trade Secret and Employee Mobility Matters
We advise companies on protecting algorithms, proprietary models, source code, and other confidential information, particularly in environments where engineers frequently move between companies.
IP Due Diligence
We assist with diligence related to acquisitions, fundraising, and licensing transactions involving EV, autonomy, and advanced vehicle technologies.
Why Companies in Palo Alto Work With BHW IP Law
- Engineering-trained attorneys with direct experience in complex technical fields
- Experience asserting and defending patents involving vehicle electronics, autonomy, and mobility software
- Understanding of how Silicon Valley companies develop, iterate, and deploy technology
- Ability to work closely with in-house engineering teams and technical founders
If you are developing automotive or mobility technologies and require intellectual property guidance, please contact our Palo Alto office. Do not provide any confidential information until conflicts have been cleared and an attorney-client relationship has been established.
Barceló, Harrison & Walker, LLP