The technology involves a microprocessor that accepts torque information from both the internal combustion engine and electric motor, reports Bloomberg. According to Paice, the hybrid market didn’t take off until Toyota revamped its vehicle program using technology that Paice had originally patented long before the launch of the first hybrid in late 1997.
Toyota may also have to pay Paice royalties for future hybrid vehicles it produces using the disputed technology. The appeals court told a trial judge to revisit his order that Toyota pay $25 for every Prius, Highlander and Lexus RX400h sold.
