More patent problems for Toyota's Prius?

*Seen on a sidewalk at Tarpon*

Toyota has made a procedural move in a patent battle with Aim-listed Antonov over the rights to the hybrid engine technology used in its Prius and Lexus models.

Toyota has issued a writ in Japan challenging one of Antonov’s automotive transmission patents in what appears to be an attempt to drive the British company out of business.

Antonov filed an action against Toyota a year ago in Germany, where legal costs are capped, claiming that the drive- lines of the second-generation Toyota Prius and the Lexus RX400h infringe its patents.

Recall that Toyota has a separate patent battle going on with a fellow from Tarpon Springs, Florida.