February 07, 2012
By: Jana Bell
A bill proposed by two California representatives would make it easier for alternative auto parts manufacturers to produce patented parts.
The Promoting Automotive Repair, Trade, and Sales Act would put in place a 2.5-year cap on U.S. patents for auto parts designs. During that time, other manufacturers would be able to test and develop replacement parts for pre-sale.
Under current rules, automakers have 14 years of design exclusivity, even though the average lifetime of a car is 10.8 years. Proponents say the greater availability of replacement parts would reduce costs for consumers.
"This is not the time to raise repair costs for Americans depending on their cars so they can get their kids to school and drive to work," said Representative Zoe Lofgren. "We need a balanced approach, and this bipartisan bill encourages competition for an innovative, quality auto parts market at the best price for consumers."
Replacement parts have made a difference for insurers even with the longer patent timeline in place. The Property Casualty Insurers Association of America says last year, the use of replacement parts resulted in consumers saving $2.2 billion in auto insurance costs. Greater availability could result in even lower car insurance rates.
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