Hoverboard Patent Wars: Razor vs. Copycats at ITC
Published Date: 2/26/2025
Notice
Summary
The U.S. International Trade Commission is launching an investigation into certain motorized self-balancing vehicles, like hoverboards, after Razor USA and Shane Chen claimed patent violations. This could lead to import bans and sales restrictions to protect U.S. businesses. The investigation started in early February 2025 and might impact companies selling these vehicles in the U.S., possibly affecting prices and availability.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 4 costs, 0 mixed.
Investigation into hoverboard patents
On February 20, 2025, the U.S. International Trade Commission instituted an investigation of alleged patent infringement involving U.S. Patent Nos. RE46,964; RE49,608; and D739,906. The complaint was filed January 3, 2025 (amended January 21, 2025), and the complainants asked the Commission to issue a limited exclusion order and cease and desist orders after the investigation.
Products targeted: two-wheeled hoverboards
The investigation specifically covers 'motorized two-wheeled self-balancing vehicles without handlebars.' If you make, import, or sell those exact products in the United States, they are within the scope of this case.
Respondents face 20‑day response deadline
Named respondents must file responses in accordance with the Commission's rules, and such responses will be considered if received not later than 20 days after the date of service of the complaint and notice of investigation. A respondent's failure to file a timely response may be treated as a waiver and may lead the Commission to issue an initial and final determination and exclusion or cease and desist orders without further notice.
Specific companies named as respondents
The notice identifies the following respondents to be served: Golabs Inc. d/b/a Gotrax (Texas); Dongguan Saibotan Nengyuan Keji Co., Ltd. d/b/a 'Gyroor US' (China); Gyroor Technology (CHINA) Co., Ltd. d/b/a Gyroor (China); Shenzhen Chitado Technology Co., Ltd. d/b/a Gyroor (China); and Unicorn Network, LLC d/b/a Sisigad (Delaware).
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Key Dates
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