A tiny maker of portable computers in California has sued Nissan Motor Manufacturing Corp. U.S.A. over use of the word "Altima" to describe the automaker's newest model.

Altima Systems Inc. of Concord, Calif., claims in a federal court suit in Chicago that its trademark for Altima computers is being infringed on by Nissan's plans to introduce a new mid-size car under the same name.The car's rollout, or public presentation, is scheduled Tuesday.

Altima Systems asked for an injunction and for unspecified damages for trademark dilution and infringement and for creating unfair competition.

View Comments

Nissan public relations officials said Wednesday they would not comment on the suit until company executives received a copy.

Join the Conversation
Looking for comments?
Find comments in their new home! Click the buttons at the top or within the article to view them — or use the button below for quick access.