Core Viewpoint - The domestic lidar industry is experiencing an escalation in patent disputes, with Shenzhen Lingming Photon Technology Co., Ltd. filing a countersuit against Suoteng Juchuang for patent infringement, marking a shift from one-sided accusations to mutual litigation in the so-called "first case of SPAD chip" in the lidar sector [1][3][4]. Group 1: Legal Disputes - Lingming Photon has accused Suoteng Juchuang of infringing on its invention patent rights concerning the E1 series products, including E1R and E1P [1][4]. - The legal battle has intensified, with both companies now engaged in a back-and-forth litigation process, reflecting a significant change in competitive dynamics within the lidar industry [3][6]. - Suoteng Juchuang has initiated multiple lawsuits regarding alleged infringement of its technical secrets and patents, indicating a proactive legal strategy in response to Lingming Photon’s claims [6][5]. Group 2: Market Impact - The ongoing litigation has put pressure on Suoteng Juchuang's stock price, which fell to a low of 35.6 HKD per share on December 17, 2023, before closing at 36.16 HKD, with a total market capitalization of approximately 170.7 billion HKD [3]. - The disputes highlight the strategic importance of SPAD (Single Photon Avalanche Diode) chip technology in the lidar industry, as companies shift focus from product integration to foundational chip technology [6][7]. Group 3: Company Backgrounds - Lingming Photon, established in 2018, has focused on SPAD technology and has applied for over 260 patents, with more than 130 patents granted [7]. - Suoteng Juchuang is a leading player in the global lidar market, holding a 26% market share in 2024, and the E1 series is a key product in its transition to solid-state lidar technology [7].
激光雷达行业“专利战”再升级，灵明光子反诉速腾聚创侵权