Automotive Drives French Patent Listings

In 2024, the automotive sector in France continues to lead the way in patent applications, with companies like Stellantis, Renault, and Valeo at the forefront of innovation. Notably, automotive battery developers Verkor and ACC are making strides in climbing the rankings, alongside wafer supplier Soitec.

The latest rankings from the French patent agency INPI reveal a notable increase in filings from smaller companies, a trend attributed to the PACTE legislation on business growth and transformation. According to Pascal Faure, Director General of the INPI, "In 2024, the INPI recorded a total of 15,458 patent applications, with a stable figure, while filings by small and medium-sized enterprises showed a 2% increase, underscoring the strength of French patents and the positive impact of developments related to the PACTE law."

Furthermore, Faure highlighted the growing presence of SMEs in the patent landscape, stating, "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."

Shifting focus to individual companies, Stellantis maintained its position as the top patent filer in 2024, despite a 16% decrease from the previous year. Aerospace firm Safran secured the second spot with 1216 patents, while automotive suppliers Forvia, Robert Bosch, and Schaffler also featured in the top twenty.

Valeo, a Tier One supplier, filed 612 patents, CEA filed 598, and Renault secured the 6th position with 587 patents. Chip maker STMicroelectronics maintained its 12th position with 229 patents. Soitec, a leading mid-sized company, climbed to the 22nd spot with 76 patents, showcasing its commitment to innovation and intellectual property.