The automotive industry is evolving at an unprecedented pace, redefining itself to meet demands. From electrification and autonomous technology to shifting consumer expectations, the road ahead is full of opportunity — and challenges.
At Thompson Coburn, we partner with automotive companies to navigate this dynamic landscape, leveraging decades of experience supporting industry clients to deliver forward-thinking, practical solutions.
Our team supports the entire automotive ecosystem, including manufacturers, suppliers, and transportation companies such as rental agencies. We provide wide-ranging services tailored to meet the unique needs of this complex industry.
We provide comprehensive legal support to every corner of the automotive industry, from manufacturers and suppliers to dealerships and transportation companies.
Our team has a proven track record in defending automotive industry clients in high-stakes litigation, including product liability cases, class actions, and multidistrict litigation.
We assist our automotive industry clients with issues related to dealers and dealerships, including dealer agreements and financing matters.
With unmatched industry insight, we help clients navigate regulatory challenges, protect intellectual property, and drive innovation.
proven leadership in high-stakes litigation
Thompson Coburn has an extensive track record of success in defending clients across the automotive industry in state and federal courts nationwide. We have served as national and regional product liability and class action counsel for leading companies and have represented clients in attorney general investigations, multidistrict litigation, and other complex matters.
We have defended some of the world’s largest automobile and motorcycle manufacturers, along with manufacturers and distributors of component parts, specialty tool manufacturers, and automotive service companies, in catastrophic injury and wrongful death cases. No matter the case—whether it involves crashworthiness allegations (e.g., vehicle seats, seat belts, airbags, fuel systems, and vehicle structure), or alleged defects in vehicle components and technologies (e.g., impact sensors, advanced driver assistance systems, electrical components, exhaust systems, brakes, tires, and suspension, handling, and stability systems)—we have the experience and resources to successfully defend our automotive clients. And, for years, we have done just that—navigating early resolution to achieve client goals, obtaining defense verdicts and summary judgment in trial courts, and affirming those wins in appellate courts.
dealer relationships and automotive financing/transactions
We represent motor vehicle manufacturers in the management of their U.S. dealership networks and have extensive experience in complex disputes between manufacturers and dealers, including dealer agreement terminations, dealership add-point and relocation protests, exercises of contractual and statutory rights of first refusal, and alleged franchise modifications. We are well-versed in dealer agreements and state franchise laws, allowing us to navigate the highly regulated landscape of the automotive industry with precision and provide client-specific solutions.
Our attorneys also bring deep experience in financing solutions tailored to the automotive industry. We represent lenders in dealer floor plan financing, dealership acquisitions, real estate construction loans, and more. We also assist transportation and rental companies with the acquisition, leasing, and financing of large vehicle fleets worldwide.
supporting innovation in a highly regulated industry
As the industry continues to innovate, we help clients protect and manage their intellectual property globally. From trademark registrations to licensing, we provide strategic counsel to safeguard our clients’ brands and assets. We also provide advertising review and guidance on regulatory and recall matters involving NHTSA, helping you stay in compliance.
