The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals has come to the defense of Batman.

According to a three-judge panel, the Batmobile is entitled to copyright protection and cannot be replicated without permission from DC Comics, the copyright holder. The ruling was the result of DC Comics’ lawsuit against Mark Towle, a car builder who produced replicas of the Batmobile as it appeared in the 1966 television show and 1989 movie. Towle sold the replicas for about $90,000 each, according to the 9th circuit.

Towle, through attorney Larry Zerner, argued that the Batmobile can’t be copyrighted. The court disagreed, saying the Batmobile’s bat-like appearance and distinct attributes make it a character protected by copyright laws.

Justice? Or Bat-crazy? Check out the full story from the Detroit News here and give us your opinion below.

vintage batmobile recreation
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Author: David Fuller

David Fuller is OnAllCylinders' managing editor. During his 20-year career in the auto industry, he has covered a variety of races, shows, and industry events and has authored articles for multiple magazines. He has also partnered with mainstream and trade publications on a wide range of editorial projects. In 2012, he helped establish OnAllCylinders, where he enjoys covering all facets of hot rodding and racing.