Fuel Injection Firm Accuses Ford of Patent Violation

TMC Fuel Injection System LLC is suing Ford Motor Co. in federal court in Philadelphia for allegedly infringing on a fuel system the smaller company patented in 2008.

The Wayne, Pa.-based company says Ford's F-150 fullsize pickup truck, America's top-selling vehicle, uses TMC's design. The supplier claims it discussed licensing possibilities with Ford from late 2004 until August 2008, when the automaker declared it wasn't interested in the system.

TMC says its technology reduces emissions, increases fuel economy by as much s 35% in city driving and delivers a power boost for acceleration by increasing the fuel injection dynamic range. The supplier is seeking a halt to infringement, compensation and triple damages.

Ford declines to comment, saying it just became aware of the lawsuit.