Automotive companies continue to dominate the listing of patent applications in France in 2024, with Stellantis, Renault and Valeo as the leading innovators.
Automotive battery developers Verkor and ACC are also climbing the list, as is wafer supplier Soitec.
The rankings from the French patent agency INPI show a significant growth in filing from smaller companies following the PACTE legislation on business growth and transformation.
“In 2024, the INPI recorded a total of 15,458 patent applications, a stable figure, while filings by small and medium-sized enterprises showed a 2% increase, highlighting the robustness of French patents and the positive impact of developments related to the PACTE law,” said Pascal Faure, Director General of the INPI.
“SMEs also stand out in this 2024 ranking of patent applicants at the INPI: for the first time, two of them appear in the ranking. This is a real source of pride for the INPI because it demonstrates an awareness of the importance of a sound industrial property strategy. We will continue to make every effort to further raise awareness and support young companies in the use of these essential tools,” he said.
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Stellantis maintained its top spot in 2024, filing 1289 patents, although this is down 16% from the 1542 in 2023. Aerospace firm Safran is at number two with 1216 patents, again down slightly on 2023. Automotive suppliers Forvia (formerly Faurecia), Robert Bosch and Schaffler are also in the top twenty.
Tier One supplier Valeo filed 612 patents, while research lab CEA filed 598 and Renault comes in at 6 with 587. Chip maker STMicroelectronics filed 229 patents, ranking it at 12, the same as last year.
Soitec came in at 22nd with 76 patents out of 400 filed worldwide and the leading mid-sized company, up from 62 in 2023, while ACC filed 38 to put it at 36th. Verkor came in at 47th with 29.
“This progress in the INPI ranking demonstrates Soitec’s unwavering commitment to innovation and intellectual property. Our teams continue to develop breakthrough solutions that address the strategic challenges of our industry. By strengthening our patent portfolio, we consolidate our leadership position and create value for our customers and partners worldwide,” said Pierre Barnabé, CEO of Soitec.
www.inpi.fr/en/the-2024-list-of-patent-applicants-is-available
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