It is up to the U.S. court to decide on a case filed by Paice LLC with the International Trade Commission in Washington, D.C. Paice claims that they own several patents to engines for hybrid vehicles. The complaint serves as a hurdle for importing Toyota models into the U.S. market. Vehicles like the Prius, Camry Hybrid, Highlander hybrid, and some hybrid units of Lexus might be banned if the court favors Paice.

In 2005, Paice edge on the legal battle that Toyota used Paice’s invention in making the drive trains for the RX400h of Lexus, Highlander, and Prius. The next trial in October will explore the infringement claims for the production of the Camry hybrid.

The trials scheduled to be heard in Marshall, Texas are just minor compared to what Paice wants to happen as they filed the case in the nation’s capital. If the trade commission decides to hear what both companies may say, the trial may stretch to about 15 months. If Paice LLC wins, the International Trade Commission can impose the ban for the models which appear to have patent issues.

The Japanese car maker treats this as a major legal battle since these cases can significantly affect their hybrid sales in their U.S. market. It is a Davide and Goliath picture, but the first throw of Paice LLC knocked down Toyota.