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Toyota Threatens to Sue DDF Productions

By: Justin Bourne

Posted: 02/21/2008

TORRANCE, Calif. - Lawyers for Toyota Motor Sales USA have threatened to sue DDFProd.com, parent company of DDFCash.com, over the stage name of model Lea Lexus.

The auto company claims the model's use of the name "Lexus" dilutes its famous trademark and violates section 43(c) of the Federal Trademark Act, 15 U.S.C. section 1125(c).

The model's name was altered on 1By-Day.com and HotLegsAndFeet.com as requested.

 

Toyota has filed lawsuits against adult performers named after the Lexus.

The Japanese automaker filed suit against adult film starlet Lexus Cash in June 2007, contending that the "use of the mark 'Lexus' in an unwholesome and unsavory context" is "likely to tarnish and blur the distinctive qualities" of the luxury brand.

Soon thereafter, Toyota turned its sights to gay porn actor Lexus. According to reports, the auto giant's lawyers in Washington, D.C., sent a cease-and-desist letter to EBoys Studios in Switzerland.