Mercedes sues former engineer for data theft

Mercedes-Benz is suing one of its former Formula 1 engineer's for taking confidential information and data prior to the latter joining rival Ferrari.

According to an October 19 legal filing, Benjamin Hoyle, who joined Mercedes' performance engineering department in 2012, searched and saved files which included a 2015 Hungarian Grand Prix race report, mileage and damage data relating to the manufacturer's power units, and files containing code required to decrypt race data.

In its law suit, the company alleged that "Hoyle's actions were calculated to destroy or seriously damage the relationship of trust" he has with Mercedes.

"Mr. Hoyle and potentially Ferrari have gained an unlawful advantage."

Hoyle apparently informed his employer on May 21st of last year of his intent to resign when his contract expired at the end of 2015. Mercedes then reassigned the engineer to duties unrelated to F1 while the manufacturer learned of his intention of moving to Ferrari shortly later.

In spite of this, it was later discovered that Hoyle had forced access to confidential data and race reports, while also attempting to cover his tracks by deleting files.

Mercedes is now determined through legal action to block Hoyle from joining the Scuderia or any other F1 competitor until the end of the 2016 season. It has also demanded the return of all documents and information as well as payment of its legal fees.

"Legal action is underway involving Mercedes AMG High Performance Powertrains Ltd. and an employee," Mercedes said in an e-mailed statement to Bloomberg. "The company has taken the appropriate legal steps to protect its intellectual property."

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