1
EXHIBIT 10.23
[*] Confidential Treatment has been requested for certain portions of this
exhibit.
autobytel.com inc.
LICENSE AND SERVICES AGREEMENT
This LICENSE AND SERVICES AGREEMENT (this "Agreement") is entered into as of
AUGUST 7, 1998, (the "Effective Date") by and between autobytel.com inc., a
Delaware corporation with offices at 18872 MacArthur Boulevard, Irvine,
California, 92612 ("ABT"), and Auto-By-Tel AB, a Swedish corporation with
offices at Haradsvagen 255, 14172 Huddinge, Sweden ("ABT/Nordic"), and
describes the terms and conditions pursuant to which ABT will grant to
ABT/Nordic a license to use and modify the Software and Business Procedures (as
defined below) and to use certain related technology, to deploy, develop and
support a localized version of such Software and Business Procedures.
BACKGROUND
WHEREAS, ABT is engaged in an Internet-based marketing business for new
and used vehicles in North America that provides Internet users with fast,
haggle-free, and courteous purchasing and related services designed to improve
consumers' overall vehicle buying experience;
WHEREAS, ABT/Nordic desires to market new and used vehicles, including
construction equipment vehicles, in Finland, Norway, Sweden and Denmark using
the ABT proprietary Software, technology, and ABT Business Procedures;
WHEREAS, ABT/Nordic desires to develop a localized version of ABT's
proprietary Software and Business Procedures applicable to Finland, Norway,
Sweden and Denmark;
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual promises and upon the
terms and conditions set forth below, the parties agree as follows:
1. Definitions
1.1 "ABT Brand" means the "Auto-By-Tel" trademark, service mark and
logo, and does not include the mark DealerSites.com.
1.2 "Business Procedures" means the proprietary business procedures for
offering purchasing-related services, as delivered by ABT to ABT/Nordic before
the Effective Date, and any updates or new revisions thereof.
1.3 "Confidential Information" means this Agreement and all its
Attachments, any addenda hereto signed by both parties, all Software listings,
Documentation, information, data, drawings,
1
2
[*] Confidential Treatment Requested
benchmark tests, specifications, trade secrets, object code and machine-readable
copies of the Software, Business Procedures, and any other proprietary
information disclosed by one party to the other.
1.4 "Current Term" means the initial [*] after the Launch Date, and any
[*] renewal described in Section 11.1, during which this Agreement is in effect.
1.5 "Derivative Work" means a derivative work within the meaning of 17
U.S.C. Section 101 of the U.S. copyright law.
1.6 "Documentation" means any electronic instructions, manuals or other
materials, including without limitation on-line help files, regarding the
development or use of the Software provided by ABT under this Agreement.
1.7 "DRT" means the Dealer Communication System portion of the Software.
1.8 "Error Correction" means a patch to, or release or version of the
Software containing error corrections or fixes.
1.9 "Extensions" means any modifications or additions to the Software or
Business Procedures that are not Derivative Works of the Software or Business
Procedures.
1.10 "Fees" mean all minimum and monthly license, maintenance and other
fees payable to ABT hereunder.
1.11 "Global Brand Protocols" means the procedures for use of the ABT
Brand set forth on Attachment B along with any revisions thereof provided by ABT
from time to time in its sole discretion.
1.12 "Gross Revenues" means all payments actually received by ABT/Nordic
with regard to the Local Business, including without limitation fees received
from dealers for participating in the Internet referral system, payments
received from dealers as a result of Internet inquiries referred to them, sums
received as payments for advertising on internet sites which are part of the
Local Business, gross revenues (but not reimbursement of costs or expenses) from
providing maintenance of, and training regarding, the DRT, and all other
revenues arising directly out of the Local Business. Gross revenues will not
include revenues from sales of cars or other vehicles, from servicing of cars or
other vehicles or from other activities by ABT/Nordic or any of its affiliates
other than the operation of the Local Business. Gross Revenues received in any
currencies other than U.S. dollars will be converted into U.S. dollars at the
exchange rate in effect at 12:00 noon, Eastern Standard Time, on the first
business day of the calendar month in which such revenues are received.
1.13 "Launch Date" means the first date ABT/Nordic makes the World Wide
Web site for the Local Business generally available on the World Wide Web; but
in no event later than [*].
2
3
1.14 "Local Business" means a business providing Internet based
marketing of automotive and automotive related products and services, including
without limitation trucks and construction vehicles relating to vehicle dealers
located in the Territory. The parties acknowledge that the inclusion of trucks
and construction vehicles in the Local Business must not be construed to
obligate ABT to include trucks and construction vehicles in the operation of the
ABT business generally, nor to create any Software or Business Procedures
relating thereto.
1.15 "Localized Version" means a Derivative Work of the Software and
Business Procedures that implements the core functionality of the Software and
Business Procedures, but incorporates the language, currency and functional
variations for the various countries of the Territory, which Derivative Works
are in each case created by or for use by ABT/Nordic.
1.16 "Localize, or Localization" means any modifications to the Software
or Business Procedures necessary to facilitate the operation and functionality
of the Software on the operating systems or platforms within the Territory, or
the modification of the Business Procedures to meet local custom or
technological or regulatory requirements.
1.17 "Fiscal Quarter" means a period of three (3) consecutive calendar
months which period commences upon the Launch Date, or three (3), six (6), or
nine (9) months thereafter; or the anniversary of any of the foregoing.
1.18 "Fiscal Year" means a period of four (4) consecutive Fiscal
Quarters commencing on the Launch Date or the anniversary thereof.
1.19 "Software" means ABT's existing proprietary Software products
specified on Attachment A hereto, together with any Error Corrections, Updates
or Upgrades thereof provided to ABT/Nordic pursuant to this Agreement.
1.20 "Territory" means the geographical area of Finland, Norway, Sweden
and Denmark.
1.21 "Update" means a release or version of the Software containing
minor functional enhancements, or extensions.
1.22 "Upgrade" means any version of the Software designated as such by
ABT, which contains new functionality or significantly enhanced operation.
2. Grant of License
2.1 License. Subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement, ABT
hereby grants to ABT/Nordic:
(a) a non-exclusive, non-transferable license to use, reproduce,
transmit, and to distribute, to provide access to and make available to
employees of ABT/Nordic, the Software and Business
3
4
Procedures in the Territory, and to create Derivative Works and Extensions,
solely in connection with the development of a Localized Version or Extension in
connection with the operation of the Local Business in the Territory; and to
provide access to and make available the Software and Business Procedures to
third party contractors, solely in accordance with Section 10.4.
(b) an exclusive, non-transferable license in the Territory to
use, reproduce, make available on a server, and distribute, transmit, make
available and provide access to, to employees of ABT/Nordic, the Software in
object code format and the Business Procedures, solely for the operation of the
Local Business in the Territory, provided that ABT/Nordic operates the Local
Business solely in the accordance with the Business Procedures, and only with
respect to vehicle dealers in the Territory.
(c) a non-exclusive license to distribute, make available,
provide access to, and to publicly perform and display, and to transmit copies
of the client or "run-time" portions of the Software, or the DRT, in object code
format, in the Territory, and to reproduce the Software as necessary to exercise
such rights.
2.2 Sublicenses. ABT/Nordic may (a) grant non-exclusive sublicenses to
vehicle dealers in the Territory to use copies of the DRT in object code format,
solely for use in connection with the Local Business, and (b) grant to third
parties the right to use and reproduce copies of client or "run-time" portions
of the Software for use in connection with the Local Business' Web site. Such
sublicenses must be granted solely in connection with end user licenses in a
form subject to ABT's approval, which will not be unreasonably withheld.
ABT/Nordic may grant sublicenses of the rights granted in Section 2.1 only upon
the prior written approval of ABT. ABT shall not grant to any third party in the
Territory a license to the use DRT in connection with a Local Business.
2.3 Copies. ABT shall deliver to ABT/Nordic, as soon as practicable, one
(1) copy of the Software in executable form, and one (1) copy of the Software in
commented source code form including APIs, one (1) copy of the related
Documentation and one (1) copy of the Business Procedures. ABT/Nordic will be
entitled to make one (1) copy of the Software solely for backup or archival
purposes, and a reasonable number of copies for development purposes, and to
retain one (1) copy of the Software for production purposes. Except as otherwise
set forth herein, ABT/Nordic may not copy, distribute, reproduce, use or allow
access to the Software and Business Procedures. All copies of the Software will
be subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement. Whenever ABT/Nordic is
permitted to copy or reproduce all or any part of the Software and Business
Procedures, all titles, trademark symbols, copyright symbols and legends, and
other proprietary markings of ABT or its suppliers or licensors must be
reproduced. ABT/Nordic shall not alter or remove any of ABT's trademarks,
copyright notices or other proprietary notices affixed to the Software by ABT.
2.4 Ownership. ABT owns all right, title and interest in and to the
Software and Business Procedures, together with any Localized Version or other
modifications to the Software and Business Procedures made by either ABT or
ABT/Nordic in connection with Localization of the Software or Business
Procedures. The licenses granted herein transfers to ABT/Nordic neither title,
nor any
4
5
proprietary or intellectual property rights to the Software, Business
Procedures, or Documentation, or any copyrights, patents, or trademarks,
embodied or used in connection therewith, except for the rights expressly
granted herein. Upon development of any Localized Version by ABT/Nordic,
ABT/Nordic hereby assigns all right, title and interest to such Localized
Version to ABT. Such Localized Version will be included as, and incorporated in,
the Software for the purposes of the license grant in this Section 2. ABT hereby
grants ABT/Nordic an irrevocable, perpetual, worldwide, non-exclusive, fully
paid-up, transferable, sublicenseable license to reproduce, distribute, publicly
perform and display, transmit, make available, provide access to, and prepare
Derivative Works of the Extensions, and Derivative Works thereof, in connection
with the Local Business. The foregoing license will survive the termination of
this Agreement. All rights in Software and Business Procedures not expressly
granted hereunder are reserved to ABT.
2.5 Software and Business Procedure Localization. As between the
parties, ABT/Nordic is responsible for any changes to the Software,
Documentation, or Business Procedures necessary to Localize them in accordance
with the operation of the Local Business. All such Localization changes, and the
development of any Extensions, must be approved by ABT prior to development and
implementation. All such Localization changes and the development of any
Extensions must be either (i) performed by ABT in accordance with Section 3.2
below; or (ii) performed by ABT/Nordic, or by its independent contractor
approved by ABT, under the technical oversight and subject to the approval of
ABT, subject to Section 3.2 below. ABT will assist ABT/Nordic and any
independent contractors approved by ABT in all reasonable ways in making
Localization changes and developing Extensions, subject to any fees due for such
services pursuant to Section 6.2. Any modifications made to the Software,
Documentation, or Business Procedures without the approval of ABT will be a
material breach of this Agreement. In the event the Business Procedures violate
the laws or regulations of the Territory or the European Union, the parties will
cooperate in good faith to Localize them to comply with the laws and regulations
of the Territory or the European Union, as applicable. Upon completion of any
Localized Version or Extension, ABT/Nordic must disclose to ABT a copy of such
Localized Version or Extension. Any such disclosure of Localized Software or
Extension must be in source code format.
2.6 Updates and Upgrades. During the term of this Agreement, and subject
to ABT/Nordic's payment to ABT of the Maintenance Fee set forth in Section 5.3
below, ABT will deliver to ABT/Nordic any Error Corrections, Updates or Upgrades
to the Software or Business Procedures that ABT uses or releases to any of ABT's
other local country affiliates or United States licensees. ABT/Nordic shall
promptly implement all use Error Corrections, Updates, or Upgrades provided by
ABT under this Agreement, to the extent (i) consistent with Localization
requirements and (ii) such Error Corrections, Updates, or Upgrades do not cause
material errors in the software, Internet or telecommunications operations of
the Local Business. Notwithstanding the above, ABT will not be obligated to
provide such Error Corrections, Updates or Upgrades during the period during
which, in the reasonable discretion of ABT's project manager, they are in
release solely for testing purposes or otherwise not suitable for release
outside the United States.
5
6
[*] Confidential Treatment Requested
2.7 License Restrictions. ABT/Nordic shall not:
(a) sell, lease, license, sublicense or distribute the Software,
Documentation, or Business Procedures except in accordance with this Agreement;
(b) provide, disclose, divulge or make available to, or permit
use of the Software, Documentation, Business Procedures, or Localized Version by
any third party without ABT's prior written consent, except as specifically
authorized by this Agreement; or
(c) use the Software for any purpose except as expressly
provided for in this Agreement.
2.8 Third Party Technology. The parties acknowledge that certain
software, equipment, or technology of third parties, including without
limitation server equipment, server software, and database software, may be
required to operate the Software. ABT shall cooperate reasonably with ABT/Nordic
to identify any such third-party technology that will be available to
ABT/Nordic, but ABT will not be obligated to provide any such third party
technology to ABT/Nordic.
2.9 Reimbursement for Certain Extensions. If ABT/Nordic wishes to create
an Extension, it may request reimbursement for the development of such Extension
pursuant to this Section 2.9. ABT/Nordic will submit to ABT a description in
reasonable detail of such Extension. ABT shall, at ABT/Nordic's expense in
accordance with Section 3.2, prepare a high-level specification, budget and
schedule for development of the Extension. If the budgeted development fees for
the Extension (the "Estimated Fees") are under [*], then ABT will not be
obligated to reimburse ABT/Nordic for the development of such Extension. If the
budgeted development fees for the Extension are [*] or over, then ABT shall have
a right of first refusal to perform such development, as follows: ABT may,
within ten (10) days after the completion of the aforementioned estimate, elect
by written notice to perform the development of such Extension, pursuant Section
3.2. If ABT does not provide such notice within such ten (10) day period,
ABT/Nordic may, in its discretion, elect to perform the development of such
Extension, subject to the terms of Section 2.5. Upon completion of the
Extension, ABT/Nordic shall provide a copy of such Extension in source code
format, including any related technical documentation, to ABT. If, within the
next one (1) year period after ABT/Nordic provides the Extension to ABT, either
ABT or its affiliates use such Extension (other than solely for testing
purposes), ABT shall, no later than thirty (30) days after the date of such use,
reimburse ABT/Nordic [*] of the Estimated Fees for development of such
Extension.
2.10 Outsourcing. Upon ABT/Nordic's request, the parties will use
reasonable efforts to enter into an agreement, before the Launch Date, to allow
ABT/Nordic to engage a third party to operate the Software on ABT/Nordic's
behalf.
3. Obligations.
6
7
3.1 Services. Upon mutual agreement, ABT may, from time to time, perform
services and provide support to ABT/Nordic that will be subject to a Services
Agreement in a format similar to the Services Agreement included on Attachment D
hereto (the "Services" as further defined below).
(a) In addition to the compensation set forth in the definitive
Services Agreement, ABT/Nordic shall reimburse ABT for the reasonable actual
travel and living expenses of ABT's personnel engaged in performing the Services
at locations other than ABT's facilities, together with other reasonable
out-of-pocket expenses incurred in connection with the performance of such
Services. ABT shall adhere to any travel policy reasonably promulgated by
ABT/Nordic in connection therewith.
(b) ABT/Nordic shall pay ABT for any Services provided under
this Section 3.1 in accordance with the payment terms set forth in Section 5
below.
3.2 Scope of Services. The parties currently anticipate that the
Services that may be performed in accordance with Section 3.1 above may include
the following. However, nothing in this Section 3.2 will be deemed to create any
binding obligation on either party.
(a) Hardware selection and configuration consulting services;
(b) Business model conversion support for software systems and
operating procedures;
(c) Marketing, sales and information technology training;
(d) Support for training of vehicle dealers in the use of the
DRT portions of the Software; and
(e) Business Procedures marketing support, including support
regarding know-how, cooperative advertising or other co-marketing activities.
3.3 ABT/Nordic Obligations. ABT/Nordic shall operate the Local Business
solely in accordance with the Localized Business Procedures. ABT/Nordic shall
operate the Local Business solely in accordance with the laws, regulations, and
other requirements of the Territory and of the European Union. During the term
of this Agreement, ABT/Nordic will devote sufficient resources and personnel to
the Local Business to market, promote and operate the Local Business properly.
ABT/Nordic will be responsible for training vehicle dealers in the use of the
DRT portions of the Software and will be solely responsible for all costs and
expenses related to the marketing, promotion and operation of the Local Business
and for performing its obligations hereunder. ABT/Nordic will ensure that only
properly trained and qualified persons perform its technical obligations under
this Agreement.
3.4 Hyperlinks. ABT shall, on and after the Launch Date, maintain a
location on its Web Page where ABT provides links to its local country
affiliates, and display at that location a hypertext link pointing toward
ABT/Nordic's home Web page for the Local Business, and ABT/Nordic shall, on and
after the Launch Date, display a hypertext link on the home Web page for the
Local Business pointing to such location.
7
8
3.5 Territory and Sales. The parties acknowledge that ABT/Nordic may
receive inquiries or orders for sales of products or services from persons
outside the Territory. In such case, ABT/Nordic shall respond to such inquiries
only in accordance with the laws of the Territory and the European Union. In
addition, ABT/Nordic acknowledges that ABT may enter into agreements with other
parties who will operate a Local Business outside the Territory. ABT/Nordic
shall use its best efforts to resolve any channel conflicts with such third
parties relating to such inquiries in the manner which, in ABT's reasonable
discretion, best promotes overall worldwide use of the business of providing
Internet-based marketing of automobiles using the ABT Brand, the Software and
the Business Procedures.
4. Warranty and Disclaimer
4.1 ABT Warranty. ABT warrants that (a) during the term of this
Agreement, the Software will perform in substantial accordance with the
Documentation; and (b) the Software, together with third party technology
identified in accordance with Section 2.8, is all the technology ABT uses to
operate its Internet-based marketing business for new and used cars in the
manner ABT operates such business as of the Effective Date. If the Software does
not perform as warranted in accordance with subsection (a) of this Section 4.1,
ABT shall use commercially reasonable efforts to provide Error Corrections to
correct the Software in accordance with the escalation procedures in
Attachment C, and include the correction therefor in the next Error Correction
released by ABT and provided to ABT/Nordic under Section 6.2 below. If
additional technology is necessary due to a breach of the warranty in subsection
(b) of this Section 4.1, ABT shall cooperate in good faith to assist ABT/Nordic
in procuring any such additional technology. The foregoing are ABT/Nordic's sole
and exclusive remedies for breach of warranty. The warranty will apply only if
the then-current version of the Software has been properly installed and used at
all times and in accordance with the Localized Business Procedures and any
relevant Documentation.
4.2 ABT/Nordic Warranty. ABT/Nordic represents and warrants that
ABT/Nordic is sufficiently capitalized to undertake the business transaction
contemplated hereunder.
4.3 Disclaimer. EXCEPT FOR THE EXPRESS LIMITED WARRANTY SET FORTH IN
SECTION 4.1 ABOVE, THE SOFTWARE, DOCUMENTATION AND BUSINESS PROCEDURES ARE
PROVIDED "AS-IS" AND WITHOUT WARRANTY OF ANY KIND, WHETHER EXPRESS, IMPLIED,
STATUTORY OR OTHERWISE. ABT HEREBY DISCLAIMS ANY WARRANTY THAT THE OPERATION OF
THE SOFTWARE WILL BE UNINTERRUPTED OR ERROR-FREE. ABT SPECIFICALLY DISCLAIMS ALL
IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF, MERCHANTABILITY, AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE
WITH RESPECT TO THE SOFTWARE, DOCUMENTATION, OR BUSINESS PROCEDURES.
4.4 Disclaimer. The success of the business venture contemplated to be
undertaken by ABT/Nordic by virtue of this Agreement is speculative and depends,
to a large extent, upon the ability of ABT/Nordic as an independent business
operator and the active participation of ABT/Nordic in the daily affairs of the
Local Business, as well as other factors. ABT does not make any representation
or
8
9
[*] Confidential Treatment Requested
warranty, express, or implied, as to the potential success of the business
venture contemplated by this Agreement.
5. Compensation.
5.1 Minimum License Fee. In consideration of the licenses granted
herein, ABT/Nordic shall pay to ABT the minimum license fee specified on
Attachment A ("Minimum Annual License Fee"). The Minimum Annual License Fee will
be payable in four (4) equal installments, in advance of each Fiscal Quarter.
5.2 Additional License Fees. No later than thirty (30) days after the
end of each month, ABT/Nordic shall pay to ABT an amount equal to [*] of Gross
Revenues received by ABT/Nordic during such month in connection with the
operation of the Local Business (the "Monthly Fees"). ABT/Nordic may credit any
previously paid Minimum Annual License Fees paid for the current Fiscal Year
against the Monthly Fees.
5.3 Maintenance Fee. In consideration of the services to be provided by
ABT under Section 6, ABT/Nordic shall pay to ABT the maintenance fee specified
on Attachment A (the "Maintenance Fee"). The Maintenance Fee will be due on the
Effective Date, and each anniversary thereof. ABT may increase the Maintenance
Fee after the first year of the Term, in proportion to any increase in the
Orange County Technical Support Index, as compared to the latest index published
as of the Effective Date.
5.4 Taxes. All charges and Fees provided for in this Agreement are
exclusive of, and do not include, any taxes, duties, or similar charges imposed
by any government. ABT/Nordic shall pay or reimburse ABT for all federal, state,
dominion, provincial, or local sales, use, personal property, excise or other
taxes, fees, or duties arising out of this Agreement or the transactions
contemplated by this Agreement (other than taxes on the net income of ABT).
5.5 Payment. ABT/Nordic shall make all payments in U.S. Dollars by wire
transfer to an account designated by ABT. Any payments due under this Agreement
which are not paid when due will bear interest, to the extent permitted by
applicable law, at the prime rate as reported by the Chase Manhattan Bank, New
York, New York, on the date such payment is due, plus an additional [*],
calculated on the number of days such payment is delinquent. This Section 5.5
will not limit any other remedies available to any party.
5.6 Records. ABT/Nordic shall make and maintain an accounting and record
keeping system, approved in accordance with the standards and specifications set
forth in the Business Procedures, which is sufficient to enable ABT/Nordic to
calculate, and ABT to review, the monthly fees due under Section 5.3 and to
provide all other information required under this Agreement. ABT will have the
right, at its own expense, to inspect, through either its employees or agents,
and upon reasonable notice in writing, and during regular business hours,
ABT/Nordic's relevant records to verify the accuracy of fees paid by ABT/Nordic
under the terms of this Agreement. If any such examination discloses a shortfall
in the fees
9
10
[*] Confidential Treatment Requested
due to ABT hereunder, ABT/Nordic shall reimburse ABT for the full amount of such
shortfall plus interest and if the amount of the underpayment for any period is
more than [*] ABT/Nordic shall pay ABT's costs of performing that audit with
respect to such period.
6. Maintenance and Support.
6.1 Support. ABT shall provide Maintenance and Support as described in
Section 6.2 below. ABT's provision of Maintenance and Support to ABT/Nordic will
commence upon payment of the Maintenance Fee.
6.2 Maintenance and Support Services. For purposes of this Agreement,
"Maintenance and Support" means that ABT will provide: (a) Error Corrections,
Updates and Upgrades, if any, to the Software, Business Procedures and
Documentation that ABT releases during the current period covered by the
Maintenance Fee, in accordance with Section 2.6; and (b) up to [*] hours of
technical support per year, in English, pursuant to the escalation procedures in
Attachment C. Any hours of support provided by ABT on or after June 1, 1998
(whether or not such date is before the Effective Date) will be counted toward
the [*] for the first year. ABT shall provide ABT/Nordic with a monthly report
of the hours of technical support provided by ABT under this Section 6.2. Upon
ABT/Nordic request, ABT shall provide copies of documents to support such
invoices. Fees for any additional Maintenance and Support services beyond the
initial [*] hours will be invoiced monthly in arrears by ABT, in reasonable
detail showing such additional hours to the nearest quarter hour, and Customer
shall pay such Fees no later than fifteen (15) days after the invoice date. The
Fee for such additional hours is currently [*] per hour. However, ABT may
increase such Fees for any such additional hours of Maintenance and Support in
proportion to any increase in the Orange County Technical Support Index, as
compared to the latest index published as of the Effective Date. All Maintenance
and Support services will be provided by appropriately trained personnel in
accordance with Attachment C.
6.3 Project Managers and Staff. Each party shall designate a project
manager to administer Maintenance and Support under this Agreement. The parties
shall coordinate all Maintenance and Support work under this Agreement through
such project managers. Each party may change its project manager upon written
notice. ABT will ensure that only properly trained and qualified persons perform
its technical obligations under this Agreement.
7. Trademarks.
7.1 Trademarks. ABT hereby grants to ABT/Nordic the exclusive right and
license to use the ABT Brand in connection with a Local Business in the
Territory, including without limitation the right and license to use or display
the ABT Brand on World Wide Web sites, or other world-wide Internet
transmissions, relating to the Local Business. The above license will include,
without limitation, the right to indicate to the public that ABT/Nordic is an
authorized licensee of ABT and to advertise ABT/Nordic's products and services
in connection with the Local Business under the ABT Brand.
10
11
ABT/Nordic shall fully comply with the Global Brand Protocols. ABT/Nordic shall
present its annual marketing plans for ABT's review and keep ABT, informed about
any material changes in such plans. Subject to the Global Brand Protocols, after
approval of such marketing plans, ABT/Nordic may use media of its choice to
present such marketing plan to the public.
7.2 Restrictions. Except as set forth in this Section 7.2, nothing
contained in this Agreement will grant or will be deemed to grant to ABT/Nordic
any right, title or interest in or to the ABT Brand. ABT/Nordic shall not
challenge or assist others to challenge the ABT Brand (except to the extent such
restriction is expressly prohibited by applicable law) or the registration
thereof or attempt to register any trademarks, marks or trade names confusingly
similar to those of ABT. If ABT/Nordic, in the course of exercising its rights
hereunder, acquires any goodwill or reputation in the ABT Brand, all such
goodwill or reputation will automatically vest in ABT when and as, on an
on-going basis, such acquisition of goodwill or reputation occurs, as well as at
the expiration or termination of this Agreement, without any separate payment or
other consideration of any kind to ABT/Nordic, and ABT/Nordic agrees to take all
such actions necessary to effect such vesting, including without limitation the
transfer to ABT of rights in any filings or registrations made under Section 7.3
below. Upon termination of this Agreement, ABT/Nordic shall immediately cease to
use the ABT Brand.
7.3 Trademark Registrations in the Territory. ABT/Nordic shall advise
ABT regarding the appropriate registrations or filings appropriate to protect
the use of the ABT Brand in the Territory and the European Union. ABT/Nordic
shall make any registrations or filings requested by ABT with the appropriate
authorities, and shall pay all costs or fees associated with such filing.
7.4 Registered User Agreements. To the extent ABT deems necessary, in
its reasonable discretion, to properly protect ABT's rights, ABT and ABT/Nordic
shall enter into registered user agreements with respect to the ABT Brand
pursuant to applicable trademark law requirements in the Territory or the
European Union. ABT/Nordic will be responsible for proper filing of registered
user agreements with appropriate government authorities and shall pay all costs
or fees associated with such filing.
7.5 Name Branding; Product Protection. On any promotional materials
used or disseminated by ABT/Nordic relating to the Local Business, ABT/Nordic
shall display the ABT Brand. Where both ABT/Nordic's marks and the ABT Brand are
displayed, the marks will be presented equally legibly, and in a size and style
in accordance with ABT's then-current Global Brand Protocols.
7.6 Enforcement of Standards. ABT will require all United States and
foreign affiliates who are authorized to display, or market services or products
under, the ABT Brand, in connection with an agreement similar to this Agreement,
to (i) comply with the Global Brand Protocols, (ii) operate their businesses
which use the ABT Brand in accordance with the Business Procedures (subject to
reasonable localization). ABT will use commercially reasonable efforts to
enforce those requirements with regard to all such affiliates.
11
12
8. Limitation of Liability
EXCEPT FOR LIABILITY ARISING OUT OF SECTION 10, IN NO EVENT WILL ABT'S
TOTAL LIABILITY ARISING OUT OF OR RELATED TO THIS AGREEMENT EXCEED THE TOTAL
AMOUNTS PAID BY ABT/NORDIC TO ABT FOR THE CURRENT ONE-YEAR TERM. EXCEPT FOR
LIABILITY FOR THIRD PARTY CLAIMS ARISING OUT OF SECTION 9 OR 10, IN NO EVENT
WILL EITHER PARTY HAVE ANY LIABILITY FOR ANY INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, SPECIAL OR
CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, HOWEVER CAUSED AND ON ANY THEORY OF LIABILITY, WHETHER
FOR BREACH OF CONTRACT, TORT OR OTHERWISE, ARISING OUT OF OR RELATED TO THIS
AGREEMENT, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO, LOSS OF ANTICIPATED PROFITS, LOSS OF
DATA, LOSS OF USE, OR COST OF COVER, EVEN IF SUCH PARTY HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE
POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES.
9. Indemnification for Infringement
9.1 ABT Indemnity for Infringement. ABT shall, at its expense, defend or
settle any claim, action or allegation brought against ABT/Nordic that the
Software or Business Procedures infringes any copyright or trade secret right of
any third party, and shall pay any final judgments awarded or settlements
entered into; provided that ABT/Nordic gives prompt written notice to ABT of any
such claim, action or allegation of infringement and gives ABT the authority to
proceed as contemplated herein. ABT will have the exclusive right to defend any
such claim, action or allegation and make settlements thereof in its own
discretion, and ABT/Nordic may not settle or compromise such claim, action or
allegation, except with the prior written consent of ABT. Not withstanding the
above, ABT/Nordic shall have the right (i) to take action in order to prevent a
default judgment, if ABT fails to act and (ii) to take action to prevent or
dissolve any temporary restraining orders or other injunctions which materially
impair ABT/Nordic's ability to conduct the Local Business. ABT/Nordic shall give
such assistance and information as ABT may reasonably require to settle, or
oppose such claims. In the event any intellectual property infringement, claim,
action or allegation is brought or threatened, ABT shall, at its sole option and
expense:
(a) procure for ABT/Nordic the right to continue use of the
Software or Business Procedures or infringing part thereof.
(b) modify or amend the Software or Business Procedures or
infringing part thereof, or replace the Software or Business Procedures or
infringing part thereof with other Software or Business Procedures having
substantially the same or better capabilities; or
(c) if neither (a) nor (b) is reasonably possible, terminate this
Agreement and repay to ABT/Nordic a portion of the Minimum Annual License Fee
equal to the amount paid by ABT/Nordic less an amount equal to one twelfth
(1/12) of the total Minimum Annual License Fee for each month or portion thereof
of the current one (1) year term to account for use by ABT/Nordic. ABT and
12
13
ABT/Nordic will then be released from any further obligation to the other
hereunder, except for the obligations that survive expiration or termination of
this Agreement.
The foregoing obligations will not apply to the extent the infringement
arises as a result of modifications to the Software not made by or for ABT. The
foregoing states the entire liability of ABT with respect to infringement of any
patent, copyright, trademark, trade secret or other proprietary right.
9.2 ABT/Nordic Indemnity. ABT/Nordic shall, at its expense, defend or
settle any claim, action or allegation brought against ABT (to the extent not
covered by Section 9.1) arising from the act or omission of ABT/Nordic,
including without limitation any claims of fraud, misrepresentation, or unfair
business practices arising from the operation of the Local Business, or those
that arise from the allegation that the Localized Version or any Extension, or
the use of the ABT Brand in the Territory, infringes any copyright or trade
secret right of any third party, and shall pay any final judgments awarded or
settlements entered into; provided that ABT gives prompt written notice to
ABT/Nordic of any such claim, action or allegation of infringement and gives
ABT/Nordic the authority to proceed as contemplated herein. ABT/Nordic will have
the exclusive right to defend any such claim, action or allegation and make
settlements thereof in its own discretion, and ABT may not settle or compromise
such claim, action or allegation, except with the prior written consent of
ABT/Nordic. ABT shall give such assistance and information as ABT/Nordic may
reasonably require to settle or oppose such claims. In the event any
intellectual property infringement, claim, action or allegation is brought or
threatened, ABT/Nordic shall, at its sole option and expense:
(a) procure for ABT the right to continue use of the Localized
Version or Extension or infringing part thereof; and/or
(b) modify or amend the Localized Version or Extension or
infringing part thereof, or replace the Localized Version or infringing part
thereof with other materials having substantially the same or better
capabilities;
(c) if neither (a) nor (b) is reasonably possible, terminate
ABT's rights in such Localized Version or Extension, and repay to ABT a portion
of the fees paid or reimbursed by ABT for such Localized Version or Extension.
The foregoing states the entire liability of ABT/Nordic with respect to
infringement of any patent, copyright, trademark, trade secret or other
proprietary right.
9.3 Prosecution of Infringers. ABT and ABT/Nordic shall give each other
written notice of any acts of alleged infringement by third parties involving
intellectual property rights relating to the Software, Business Procedures, or
ABT Brand anywhere in the Territory of which ABT or ABT/Nordic has knowledge,
and the parties shall consult together with a view to determine the course of
action, if any, to be taken in such circumstances. ABT will have the right to
take action to enforce such rights. If the parties are unable to agree on any
such course of action to be taken, ABT/Nordic may take such
13
14
actions as ABT/Nordic considers necessary or appropriate in its own name (or, if
required by law, in ABT's name) at ABT/Nordic's expense. Each party shall render
to the other any assistance requested by the other in proceedings against an
infringer within the Territory, at the other party's expense. Any damage that
might be awarded will, after deduction of actual costs, be awarded to the party
that undertakes legal action.
10. Confidential Information
10.1 Obligations. The parties acknowledge and agree that the
Confidential Information disclosed by one party (the "Disclosing Party") to the
other party (the "Receiving Party") directly or indirectly (which information is
marked as "proprietary" or "confidential" or, if disclosed orally, is designated
as confidential or proprietary at the time of disclosure) hereunder constitutes
the confidential and proprietary information of the Disclosing Party. The
Receiving Party shall retain in strict confidence and not disclose to any third
party any Confidential Information without the Disclosing Party's express
written consent, and the Receiving Party shall not use such Confidential
Information except to exercise the rights and perform its obligations under this
Agreement. Without limiting the foregoing, each party shall use at least the
same procedures and degree of care which it uses to protect its own Confidential
Information of like importance, and in no event less than reasonable care.
10.2 Exceptions. The Receiving Party shall be relieved of this
obligation of confidentiality to the extent it can demonstrate that any such
information is: publicly available, already in the Receiving Party's possession
at the time of disclosure and not subject to a confidentiality obligation,
obtained by the Receiving Party from third parties without restrictions on
disclosure, independently developed by the Receiving Party without reference to
Confidential Information, or required to be disclosed by order of a court or
other governmental entity.
10.3 Source Code Protections. ABT/Nordic shall not under any
circumstances distribute or disclose the source code for the Software in any
manner, except in accordance with Section 10.4. Each copy or Derivative Work of
the source code for the Software must be marked as the confidential and
proprietary property of ABT to which access is restricted, and must be kept and
used solely at ABT/Nordic's secure development facilities under password
protection. ABT/Nordic agrees to limit access to the source code for the
Software twenty-four (24) hours a day, and strictly to those employees to whom
access is reasonably necessary in order to carry out the permitted uses of the
source code for the Software hereunder. ABT/Nordic will use its best efforts to
ensure that all such employees abide by the terms of its confidentiality
obligations hereunder. ABT/Nordic shall keep records of all persons who have
access to the source code for the Software. At ABT's request, ABT/Nordic agrees
to provide such records to ABT for review.
10.4 Contractors. ABT/Nordic may appoint a third party contractor
("Contractor") to assist ABT/Nordic in ABT/Nordic's modification or
implementation of the Localized Version as authorized hereunder; provided,
however, any such Contractor's access to and use of the Software, including the
Localized Version, will only be permitted pursuant to a signed written agreement
between ABT/Nordic
14
15
[*] Confidential Treatment Requested
and such Contractor reasonably acceptable to ABT and containing at least the
terms set forth in this Section 10 ("Contractor Agreement"). Such agreement must
be approved in writing by ABT prior to its execution. ABT may perform technical
oversight of all work performed by a Contractor in accordance with this Section
10.4. ABT/Nordic shall indemnify and hold harmless ABT for any losses, damages,
or expenses arising out of the breach of such agreements by such Contractors.
10.5 Notification of Security Breach. ABT/Nordic shall notify ABT
promptly in the event of any breach of its security, under conditions in which
it would appear that the trade secrets contained in the source code for the
Software or the Localized Version were prejudiced or exposed to loss. ABT/Nordic
shall, upon request of ABT, take all other reasonable steps necessary to recover
any compromised trade secrets disclosed to or placed in the possession of
ABT/Nordic by virtue of this Agreement. The cost of taking such steps will be
borne solely by ABT/Nordic, unless ABT willfully caused the breach.
10.6 Injunctive Relief. In the event of actual or threatened breach of
the provisions of Section 10.1 or 10.3, the non-breaching party will have no
adequate remedy at law and will be entitled to immediate injunctive and other
equitable relief, without the necessity of showing actual money damages.
11. Term and Termination
11.1 Term. This Agreement and the licenses granted hereunder will be
effective as of the Effective Date and will continue in full force and effect
for a term of up to [*] (the "Term") after the Launch Date. During the first
[*] the Agreement will renew automatically on the anniversary of the Launch
Date, and ABT/Nordic will be obligated to pay the related Fees as they become
due and payable in accordance with the terms and conditions contained herein.
11.2 Renewal.
(a) After the conclusion of the [*] Fiscal Year of the Term,
this Agreement will renew automatically in one (1) Fiscal Year increments,
unless terminated by ABT/Nordic in its option and discretion upon one hundred
twenty (120) days' prior written notice of its intent to not to renew this
Agreement.
(b) Five (5) months before the conclusion of the [*]
Fiscal Year of the Term, if the total Monthly Fees due to ABT for the prior
[*], divided by two (2) (the "Actual Annual Fees") , are less than the Minimum
Annual License Fee, then, upon the written request of ABT/Nordic on or before
the date one hundred twenty (120) days' prior to the conclusion of the [*]
Fiscal Year of the Term, ABT shall, at its option and discretion, promptly
either (i) reduce the Minimum Annual License Fee to the amount of such Actual
Annual Fees for the duration of the Term, or (ii) terminate the Agreement, in
which case (1) the non-competition obligations of Section 11.5(c) will cease in
effect, and (2) for the period [*] after such termination, no later than thirty
(30) days after the end of each month, ABT/Nordic shall pay to ABT an amount
equal to [*]
15
16
[*] Confidential Treatment Requested
of Gross Revenues received by ABT/Nordic during such month in connection with
the operation of the Local Business (the "Monthly Fees").
(c) During the period [*] before the end of the Term, the
parties shall negotiate in good faith the extension of the Term of the Agreement
and the conditions therein, as follows:
(d) If the parties cannot agree on extension of the Term of the
Agreement and the conditions therein within the period described in subsection
(a), then during the period one hundred eighty (180) to ten (10) days before
the end of the Term, ABT shall not grant to any third party the right to use the
ABT Brand, Software and Business Procedures to conduct a Local Business in the
Territory without offering ABT/Nordic a right of first refusal, as follows: if
ABT receives a bona fide proposal from any third party for such a license, ABT
shall communicate the proposal in reasonable detail to ABT/Nordic, and
ABT/Nordic shall, within ten (10) business days, either (x) elect to enter into
an agreement with ABT on such terms, or (y) refuse to do so, in which case ABT
would be free to enter into an agreement on substantially such terms with a
third party.
(e) If, by ten (10) days before the end of the Term, ABT has not
entered into an agreement with a third party or ABT/Nordic as described in
subsection (b) above, ABT/Nordic may, upon written notice to ABT before the end
of the Term, elect to continue the Term for a five (5) year period based on a
Minimum Annual License Fee each year equal to the average actual annual license
fee due to ABT under the Agreement during the prior two (2) years of the Term.
11.3 Termination. This Agreement may be terminated by ABT/Nordic upon
[*] prior written notice to ABT, with or without cause, upon payment of any
unpaid Minimum Annual License Fee for the Current Term.
11.4 Termination For Cause. ABT may, by written notice to ABT/Nordic,
terminate this Agreement if any of the following events ("Termination Events")
occur:
(a) ABT/Nordic fails to pay the Fees thirty (30) days after they
become due; or
(b) ABT/Nordic is in material breach of any nonmonetary term,
condition or provision of this Agreement, which breach, if capable of being
cured, is not cured within thirty (30) days after ABT gives ABT/Nordic written
notice of such breach; or
(c) ABT/Nordic (i) terminates or suspends its business; (ii) is
insolvent, admits in writing its inability to pay its debts as they mature,
makes an assignment for the benefit of creditors, or becomes subject to direct
control of a trustee, receiver or similar authority; or (iii) becomes subject to
any bankruptcy or insolvency proceeding under federal, foreign, or state
statutes.
If any Termination Event occurs, termination will become effective
immediately or on the date set forth in the written notice of termination. For
the avoidance of doubt, payment by ABT/Nordic of
16
17
any amount reported by ABT/Nordic in good faith under Section 5.2, and payment
by ABT/Nordic of any amount invoiced in good faith by ABT under Section 3.1 or
6.1, will not be deemed a breach of this Agreement by ABT/Nordic, even if a
subsequent audit reveals that the amount paid is less than the actual amount
due.
(d) Upgrades. In the event that during the Term there is a
change in the prevalent platform for development and deployment of software
systems over the World Wide Web, which change requires an Upgrade to the
Software, ABT/Nordic may notify ABT that such an Upgrade should be performed. If
ABT does not, within six (6) months after such notice, make significant efforts
toward preparing such an Upgrade, or if within one (1) year after such notice,
ABT does not provide such Upgrade to ABT/Nordic, ABT Nordic, may terminate this
Agreement at the end of the current Fiscal Year in accordance with Section
11.2(a), and the obligations of Section 11.5(c) will cease in effect.
11.5 Effect of Termination.
(a) Survival. Upon termination of this Agreement in accordance
with the above provisions, the rights and licenses granted under this Agreement
will immediately terminate except as otherwise stated herein. The terms and
conditions of the following Sections will survive termination or expiration of
this Agreement: 1, 2.4, 2.7, 4.2, 4.4, 5.6, 7.2, 8, 9, 10, 11.4, 11.5, 13 and
15, as well as any payment obligations in accordance with Section 5 which
accrued prior to expiration or termination hereof.
(b) Return of Materials. Within thirty (30) days after the date
of termination or discontinuance of this Agreement for any reason whatsoever,
(i) ABT/Nordic shall, at ABT's option, return or destroy any copies of the
Software, Documentation, Business Procedures and any other Confidential
Information in its possession that is in tangible form, and (ii) ABT shall, at
ABT/Nordic's option, return or destroy any copies of any Confidential
Information of ABT/Nordic that is in ABT's possession that is in tangible form.
Each party shall furnish to the other with a certificate signed by an executive
officer of ABT/Nordic verifying that the same has been done.
(c) Non-Competition. Subject to Section 11.2(a), if this
Agreement is terminated before the end of the Term, then during the period one
(1) year after termination of this Agreement, ABT/Nordic shall not, either for
its own account, or through any parent, subsidiaries, or affiliates, operate a
Local Business in the Territory. Notwithstanding the above, ABT/Nordic may,
through a subsidiary or affiliate, provide Internet based marketing of products
and services related to trucks and construction vehicles for vehicle dealers
located in the Territory; so long as such business does not infringe ABT's
trademarks or other intellectual property rights. If ABT/Nordic assigns this
Agreement to another party with ABT's consent under Section 12, this obligation
will run to ABT/Nordic, and to such assignee.
11.6 License if ABT Enters Bankruptcy. If, at any time during the term
of this Agreement, ABT (a) files a voluntary petition in bankruptcy under
Chapter 7 of 11 United States Code (the "Bankruptcy Code"); or (b) has an
involuntary petition in bankruptcy filed against it under Chapter 7 of the
Bankruptcy Code, which petition is not dismissed within ninety (90) days,
ABT/Nordic may elect to
17
18
retain its right in the licenses granted in this Agreement, subject to the terms
of this Agreement, in accordance with Chapter 3, Section 365(n) of the
Bankruptcy Code. The licenses granted in this Agreement will be deemed licenses
of "intellectual property" under Section 365(n) of the Bankruptcy Code.
12. Nonassignment/Binding Agreement. Neither this Agreement, nor any rights
under this Agreement, may be assigned or otherwise transferred by ABT/Nordic, in
whole or in part, whether voluntary, or by operation of law, including by way of
sale of assets, merger or consolidation, without the prior written consent of
ABT. Any permitted assignee (including without limitation ABT/Nordic) must agree
in writing to be bound by all the terms and conditions of this Agreement.
Subject to the foregoing, this Agreement will be binding upon and inure to the
benefit of the parties and their respective successors and assigns.
13. Bilia Obligations. Concurrently with the execution of the Agreement, and as
a condition to its effectiveness, ABT, ABT/Nordic and Bilia AB shall enter into
an Investment Rights Agreement, in the form attached hereto as Attachment E,
setting forth the terms and conditions pursuant to which ABT will have the right
to make certain investments in ABT/Nordic and the associated rights that ABT
will obtain in connection with such investment. In addition, ABT/Nordic shall
cause Bilia AB to enter into the side letter agreement attached hereto as
Attachment F guaranteeing certain of ABT/Nordic's obligations under this
Agreement.
14. Notices
Any notice, submission, or communication required or permitted under the terms
of this Agreement, or required by law, whether or not so required elsewhere in
this Agreement, must be in writing and must be (a) delivered in person, (b) sent
by first class registered mail, return receipt requested, or air mail, as
appropriate, or (c) sent by overnight air courier; in each case properly posted
and fully prepaid to the appropriate address set forth below. Either party may
change its address for notice by notice to the other party given in accordance
with this Section 14. Notices will be considered to have been given at the time
of the earlier of (p) actual delivery in person, (q) the date of a receipt of
such notice signed by an authorized representative of the party being notified,
(r) the date of a written confirmation of receipt by the party being notified,
or (s) thirty (30) days after deposit in the mail as set forth above.
15. Miscellaneous
15.1 Force Majeure. Neither party will incur any liability to the other
party on account of any loss or damage resulting from any delay or failure to
perform all or any part of this Agreement if such delay or failure is caused, in
whole or in part, by events, occurrences, or causes beyond the control, and
without negligence of, the parties. Such events, occurrences, or causes will
include, without limitation, acts of God, strikes, lockouts, riots, acts of war,
fires and explosions, but the inability to meet financial obligations is
expressly excluded.
18
19
15.2 No Waiver; Amendment. Any waiver of the provisions of this
Agreement or of a party's rights or remedies under this Agreement must be in
writing to be effective. Failure, neglect, or delay by a party to enforce the
provisions of this Agreement or its rights or remedies at any time will not be
construed and will not be deemed to be a waiver of such party's rights under
this Agreement and will not in any way affect the validity of the whole or any
part of this Agreement or prejudice such party's right to take subsequent
action. This Agreement may not be amended, except by a writing signed by both
parties.
15.3 Severability. If any term, condition, or provision of this
Agreement is found to be invalid, unlawful or unenforceable to any extent, the
parties shall endeavor in good faith to agree to such amendments that will
preserve, as far as possible, the intentions expressed in this Agreement. If the
parties fail to agree on such an amendment, such invalid term, condition or
provision will be severed from the remaining terms, conditions and provisions,
which will continue to be valid and enforceable to the fullest extent permitted
by law.
15.4 Entire Agreement. This Agreement (including the Attachments and any
addenda hereto signed by both parties) contains the entire agreement of the
parties with respect to the subject matter of this Agreement and supersedes all
previous communications, representations, understandings and agreements, either
oral or written, between the parties with respect to said subject matter, except
as provided in Section 1.3 with respect to the definition of "Confidential
Information."
15.5 No Conflicting Provisions. No terms, provisions or conditions of
any purchase order, acknowledgment or other business form that ABT/Nordic may
use in connection with the acquisition or licensing of the Software will have
any effect on the rights, duties or obligations of the parties under, or
otherwise modify, this Agreement, regardless of any failure of ABT to object to
such terms, provisions or conditions.
15.6 Consent. Unless expressly provided otherwise in this Agreement, any
prior consent of ABT that is required before ABT/Nordic may take an action may
be granted or withheld in ABT's sole and absolute discretion.
15.7 Export Restrictions. ABT/Nordic understands that ABT is subject to
regulation by agencies of the U.S. government, including, but not limited to,
the U.S. Department of Commerce, which prohibit export or diversion of certain
technical products to certain countries. ABT/Nordic warrants that it will comply
in all respects with the Export Administration Regulations and all other export
or re-export restrictions applicable to the technology and Documentation
licensed hereunder. Further, ABT/Nordic shall cooperate as requested by ABT to
ensure compliance with any export restrictions or licenses relating to the
Software, including the designation of a structurally independent contact
regarding each installation of the Software.
15.8 Press Releases. Neither party shall disclose to any third party the
terms and conditions of this Agreement, except as required by law, or by rules
of a securities exchange in which either party's, or
19
20
its parent company's, securities are traded, or to legal or business advisors
with a need to know acting under a duty of confidentiality. Notwithstanding the
above, at a mutually agreed time, as soon as possible after the Effective Date,
ABT and ABT/Nordic shall issue a joint press release announcing the relationship
contemplated by this Agreement.
15.9 Rights and Remedies. No exercise or enforcement by either party of
any right or remedy under this Agreement will preclude the enforcement by such
party of any other right or remedy under this Agreement or that such party is
entitled by law to enforce.
15.10 Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in counterparts, each
of which so executed will be deemed to be an original and such counterparts
together will constitute one and the same agreement.
15.11 Governing Law. This Agreement will be interpreted and construed in
accordance with the laws of the State of California and the United States of
America, without regard to conflict of law principles and excluding the 1980
United Nations Convention on Contracts for the International Sale of Goods. Any
dispute arising out of this Agreement will be subject to the exclusive venue of
the state and federal courts in California.
15.12 Language. This Agreement is in the English language only, which
language shall be controlling in all respects, and all versions hereof in any
other language shall not be binding on the parties hereto. All communications
and notices to be made or given pursuant to this Agreement shall be in the
English language.
20
21
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have caused this Agreement to be signed by duly
authorized representatives on the dates set forth below.
autobytel.com inc.("ABT") Auto-By-Tel AB ("ABT/Nordic")
By: /s/ ROBERT S. GRIMES By: /s/ JOHAN ROHSS LARS ANDERSSON
--------------------------------- ------------------------------------
Name: Robert S. Grimes Name: Johan Rohss Lars Andersson
------------------------------- ----------------------------------
Title: Executive V.P. Title: Chairman Director
------------------------------ ---------------------------------
Date: August 7, 1998 Date: August 7, 1998
------------------------------- ----------------------------------
Address: 18872 MacArthur Blvd. Address: Haradsvagen 255
---------------------------- -------------------------------
Irvine, CA 92612 14172 Huddinge Sweden
- ------------------------------------- ----------------------------------------
21
22
ATTACHMENT A
SOFTWARE:
The Software will include all core business applications, including:
APPLICATION
CATEGORY NAME DESCRIPTION
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Consumer Affinity Restricted view of Consumer Web Interface
Product Programs customized for Affinity Partners. Users are
limited to the web pages (functionality)
specified by Affinity Partner.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Finance Used by End-User Customers to apply for credit to
buy/lease an automobile.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Information Used to provide New/Used Car Information to
Provider customers via links to various information
Links providers
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Insurance Hyperlink to Insurance Site(s).
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mobalist Used by End-User Customers to sign-up for and
monitor Mobalist Rewards account.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
New Car Request Used by End-User Customers to gather new car
Process information and request a price quote.
(FasTrak)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Online Customer Used by End-Users to check on status of Purchase
Service Center and Finance Requests.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Quality Allow End-Users to answer QA survey questions.
Assurance
Survey(QA)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Used Car Used by End-User Customers to gather used car
Request Process information, review dealer used car inventories,
(FasTrak) and make a used car purchase request.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dealer Dealer Used by ABT Contracted Dealers to manage purchase
Interface Communications requests and customer contact information;
System (DRT) Maintain Used Car Inventory information for
Dealership(s).
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dealer Contract Used by ABT Contract Administration department
Management Management to manage contracts with subscribers including
(CM) New Car (Postal), Used Car, Finance and DRT.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Distribution Used by ABT Dealer Support Services (DSS) to
[Dealer] set-up and maintain relationship with Dealers.
Management (RD)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
QA Survey (QA) Used by ABT DSS/Training to monitor customer
satisfaction and closure rates; Dealer
Performance.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Financial Car Match vehicle make, model, series in ABT_PROD
Processing matching database to vehicles in GE Capital database in
order to determine residual values.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Credit Union Faxes consumer purchase requests to Credit Unions
Faxing for processing.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
22
23
(CU FX)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Customer Financial Fax Faxes credit decisions to dealers for finance requests submitted by consumers.
to Dealer
(FinFaxDealer)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Financial Status Provides system operations with access to processing statistics, error logging
Monitor and recovery procedures for financial request processing system.
(FinancialStatus)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Finance/Customer E-mails credit decisions/information from financial institutions to consumers.
Email (FML2)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bank Matcher, Bank Sends financial requests to and receives credit decision from financial
Transfer, Bank Watcher institutions.
(FSMFrame)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Information
Provider Interface Postal Code Updates Import Postal Code related data from Postal Service, GDT. Import Postal Code
Centroids (Longitude, Latitude of center of zip codes).
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Used Car Import/Export Import/Export Used Car data to/from information providers.
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
VIN Decoding Import Import Vintek data. Vintek provides the information required to Decode VINs.
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
New/Used Car Import Intellichoice data including make, model, series, options and pricing
Information Import information.
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MIS Financial Reports Reporting on Financial Requests. Reports are summarized by various
(Financial) dimensions including:
Time - day, week, month, quarter, year
Type - Lease, Retail
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Intranet Basic management reporting, system operation monitoring, data maintenance
and company/employee information.
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MIS/Billing Interface Used by ABT internal staff to pass billing data from ABT Core system to
Dynamics (ABT's Internal Financial Accounting Application).
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
QA Reports (QA) Reporting on Customer Satisfaction, Closure rates
Time - day, week, month, quarter, year
Geography - region, state, dealer
Vehicle - make, model, series
PR Type - New car or Used Car
Contract - Paying, Non-Paying Dealers
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
24
[*] Confidential Treatment Requested
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Standard Reports Reporting on Purchase Requests. Reports are summarized by various dimensions including:
(Standard)
Time - day, week, month, quarter, year
Geography - region, state, dealer
Vehicle - make, model, series
PR Type - New car or Used Car
Contract - Paying, Non-Paying Dealers
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Various Base Network Much of the core functionality of the systems described above is encapsulated in stored
Architecture & procedures/data tables in the following SQL databases: ABT_PROD, ABT_FINANCE, ABT_INTERFACE.
Supporting Systems
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MINIMUM ANNUAL LICENSE FEE:
The annual Minimum Annual License Fee will be [*] payable in four (4)
Fiscal Quarterly installments of [*].
ANNUAL MAINTENANCE FEE:
The annual Maintenance Fee will be [*].
25
ATTACHMENT B
GLOBAL BRANDING PROTOCOL:
INTRODUCTION TO GUIDELINES, PRACTICES AND PROCEDURES
Introduction
The Auto-By-Tel Corporation has recently changed its name to autobytel.com inc.
and is currently in the process of conducting brand positioning research, which
will be complete in September of 1995. Upon completion of this research,
autobytel.com inc. will issue an update to it's global brand standards protocol
(and look book), containing all of the new brand identity materials. In the
interim the old book is attached as an example of its contents as well as this
introductory document which is designed to address some of the more immediate
needs.
New Logo
Our new logo embodies some of our initial learning. We have chosen a mark
symbolizing a road, which signifies a destination that leads to Autobytel.com as
opposed to an automobile icon, which is more predictable. This mark is highly
differentiated from other companies in the category and positions autobytel.com
inc. as the leader. The new logo is reliable, innovative, trustworthy,
contemporary yet timeless. The idea of a road leading to a destination is
empowering for the consumer, reminding them that they are in the driver's seat
when buying through autobytel.com inc. The conveying of the concept of a
destination will create an association with the brand over time.
The logo will be adapted to each country by replacing the domain type that is
relevant to that country; for example, autobytel.se, autobytel.ca, autobytel.uk,
etc. Also the selling line can be inserted immediately in the lower left. Full
treatments of the logo will be reviewed when the new look book is issued.
Purpose and Function of Global Standards
The purpose of the global brand standards is to clearly define and articulate
the brand's core values and ensure that the brand's positioning remains
consistent and properly communicated throughout all forms of marketing
communication across the globe.
Since a brand is a promise of an experience, it is important that it be
comprised of the intangible as well as the tangible values in order to best
create an enduring relationship between Autobytel.com and it's stakeholder
target constituencies - shareholders, consumers and dealers alike.
What Does the Standard Address
26
The image below graphically illustrates the intangible components (on the
right), which the global brand protocol is designed to address.
[CHART]
Purpose and Intent of autobytel.com inc.'s "Global Brand Protocol and Look Book"
The purpose of the global brand protocol and "Look Book" when complete, will be
to aid Autobytel.com, all it's companies, subsidiaries, partners, and licensees
to properly administer and steward autobytel.com inc.'s intangible assets - the
brand. It is not designed to police licensees: but rather to ensure that the
tenants of strong branding be observed for Autobytel.com so that all collateral,
business, advertising, and web site creative and content guarantee quality and
consistency of message. This will ensure that the net impression left in the
mind of target audience is relevant, differentiated, and enduring.
Differentiating
27
Autobytel.com by experience (emotional bond) with the customer, versus just the
key rational benefits (e.g. low-cost, haggle-hassle-free, etc.) will ensure the
success of Autobytel.com.
Role of Autobytel.com Brand Management
It is the role of Autobytel.com Corporate Marketing to clearly articulate and
communicate the brand's core value, identity, positioning, and Global Brand
Protocol to all autobytel.com inc. companies, subsidiaries, divisions, partners
and licensees.
Role of the Autobytel.com Global Brand Agency
It is the role of the global brand agency to develop, create, recommend and
steward autobytel.com inc.'s brand positioning so that it conforms to
autobytel.com inc.'s brand values. They have the responsibility of managing the
Autobytel.com brand communications on a global scale while recognizing local
needs. In this role the agency will steward the brand with regards to the
quality and consistency of the brand's global advertising.
Role of the Local Agency
It is the role of the local country agency to create successful advertising that
conforms to autobytel.com inc.'s brand positioning.
A LOOK AT THE REQUIREMENTS, PROCESS AND INTERACTION BETWEEN AUTOBYTEL.COM INC.'S
GLOBAL BRAND AGENCY AND THE LOCAL COUNTRY'S AGENCY AS IT RELATES TO ADVERTISING
Generally speaking, autobytel.com inc.'s advertising (visual and copy content)
must be in synergy with the brand's core values and comply with the brand's
positioning strategy as will be stated in the "Global Brand Protocol & Look
Book" (after the brand positioning project is completed in September).
While this book is dynamic and periodic updates should be expected, it is our
intent to develop an enduring brand positioning, which should remain in effect
over a number of years. All decisions regarding the appropriateness of
Autobytel.com advertising will be measured against this benchmark.
Some general requirements and procedures which you should expect to see outlined
in the Global Brand Protocol about Autobytel.com advertising follows:
Creative
All creative formats and units must:
28
Feature the appropriate upper and lower case treatment of the company name (e.g.
autobytel.com inc., and Autobytel.com, etc.)
Feature the autobytel.com inc. logo
Feature the Autobytel.com tag-line (which will be translated by the global brand
agency into the appropriate language for each county in a way that is mutually
agreeable so that it mutually satisfies the requirements of both the brand and
country's cultural environment.)
Feature the appropriate Autobytel.com URL (Uniform Resource Locator) for the
country involved (e.g. autobytel.com, autobytel.ca, autobytel.uk, etc.)
reflect the highest level of moral and ethical standards within the community to
which the commercial's message is to be conveyed
reflect the brand's recommended look and feel (e.g. color palettes, typefaces,
imagery, etc.) of which examples will be provided in the look book.
Autobytel.com strongly urges all licensees to use the network affiliate of the
global brand agency. If for any reason, the licensee utilizes an agency that is
not part of the global brand agency's network, the following will apply.
Creative Procedure
Each licensee does not need to submit creative concepts and executions to
Autobytel.com for prior approval. But it is required that each country submit
copies of all creative materials to autobytel.com inc.'s global brand agency at
least quarterly. While it is not autobytel.com inc.'s intention to police
creative, should the marketing materials not conform to the brand's positioning,
Autobytel.com reserves the right to advise the country to discontinue the use of
any creative that does not properly comply. In the unlikely event that this
should occur, the country will be required to discontinue use of the materials
within 45 days. Autobytel.com strongly encourages the country's local agency to
implement an on-going dialogue with the global brand agency (a contact name will
be issued). The frequency and format for this communication can be mutually
agreeable to suit the needs and requirements of both parties, and may expand and
contract based upon the need of each party.
Media Procedure
Each country can determine the specific marketing communications mix (e.g. PR,
Advertising, Promotion, etc.) selection of media (e.g. Internet, TV, Radio,
etc), and selection of specific media vehicles (e.g. stations, publications,
etc). that is most appropriate for it's culture and environment. autobytel.com
inc. may volunteer from time to time, the sharing of information about media
that has been particularly successful in other countries across the globe. We
will
29
encourage that all partners and licensees share information about what is/isn't
working for the benefit of aggregated learning.
However, it will be required that information about marketing communication mix
and media plans be shared and submitted to Autobytel.com Corporation on at least
a bi-annual basis. This may be submitted either in a written or digital format.
Fees for Global Brand Management
(For countries not using the local affiliate of autobytel.com inc.'s global
agency)
autobytel.com inc.'s global brand agency will be appropriately organized to
steward the brand, bring strategic value to autobytel.com inc. and its
licensees, and to facilitate communication among the parties. If the licensee
does not use a local agency that is an affiliate of the global agency,
autobytel.com inc. will charge the licensee for any expenses associated with
stewarding the brand.
ADVERTISING OPPORTUNITY ON AUTOBYTEL.COM INC.'S WEBSITE
autobytel.com inc. will offer its licensees an opportunity to participate in its
global web site advertising initiative. autobytel.com inc. plans to offer
advertising on its U.S. site, and on each country's local site if the country
chooses to participate. If the licensee participates, autobytel.com inc. will
require to country's site to allocate 50% of the total pages serves and
inventory. In return, autobytel.com inc. will offer licensees the opportunity to
share in 50% of the revenues generated after expenses through this sale.
If the licensee is interested, additional details will be provided after this
program is finalized. In the interim, here are some examples of the guidelines:
Site must be constructed to accommodate advertising
Screen real estate positioning must conform to autobytel.com inc.'s global
advertising standards (currently this is a top right position and 3 IAB unit
sizes will be utilized
50% of ad inventory (equal to approximately 50% of total pages served) will be
allocated to this effort.
Licensee has 6 months after launch of site to have prepared for advertising
In Closing, please refer to the attached Global Brand Protocol and Look Book,
which is currently in development. A number of sections have been added since
the last submission.
30
autobytel.com inc.'s new U.S. Web site, launched 07/31/98
[PICTURE OF WEBSITE OF AUTOBYTEL.COM]
Note: Upon completion of the brand positioning, the new selling line will appear
below in the top ledge frame of the site.
31
ATTACHMENT C
ESCALATION PROCEDURES
ABT - International Technical Support Escalation Procedure
There will be one named primary technical support contact and one named backup
support contact. All requests for technical support must come from the primary
support contact. In the event the primary contact is not available, the backup
contact may submit the technical support request. The primary support contact
will be _______________________________ and the backup support contract will be
_______________________________.
Changes to the primary and/or backup support contacts must be received by ABT in
writing 1 business day prior to them being effective.
All local Technical Support escalation will occur prior to any escalation to
Auto-By-Tel - International Technical Support team by either the primary or
backup support contact. All infrastructure (Hardware/Network/Operating
System/SQL Server/IIS Server) errors must be corrected prior to escalation.
All Technical Support calls related to remaining APPLICATION ERRORS or SYSTEM
ERRORS with severity level of ERROR or HIGHER should be routed through the ABT -
Corporate NTS Support person at 1-949-xxx-xxxx. Response time will be as
specified in table below.
All Technical Support calls that related to errors with severity level of
WARNING or APPLICATION PROBLEMS (as defined below) should be referred to the ABT
- - International Technology Support Coordinator at l-949-xxx-xxxx.
The quoted response times relate to the time required to have a qualified
technical support person contact the person who made the technical support
request. Depending on the severity of the problem, commercially reasonable
efforts will be made to resolve the problem as soon as possible within the
guidelines under RESPONSE LEVEL.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CATEGORY DESCRIPTION
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Application Problem Problem related to the use of a specific application
program or module. The program does not appear to be
functioning correctly, however, no error messages have
been received.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Application Error An application program or module has issued an error
message. The error was not issued by the underlying
technology, (i.e. the network, operating system,
database management system server or internet server.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
System Error An error message has been received when executing an
application or web page. The error message originated
from the underlying technology, not the application
itself.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
32
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SEVERITY DESCRIPTION RESPONSE TIME RESPONSE LEVEL
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
WARNING Provides information or warning message only. 72 hours Effort during
Does not impact the overall operation of the Normal Bus.
system. Hours
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ERROR Error interrupts processing of a single 12 hours (Next Effort during 7
application or module. System operation Business Day) days/week 8am-
continues to support primary business functions. 5pm, until
resolved
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SEVERE ERROR Error interrupts processing of multiple and/or 4 hours Effort 7
primary business applications. Primary business days/week 5am
operations are impacted. - 9 pm, until
resolved
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
FATAL ERROR Error causes system to become unavailable. All 1 hour Effort 7 x 24,
business processing is aborted. until resolved
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Applications Errors in the following applications will always be classified as
at least "Severe Errors": Finance, New Car Request, Online Customer Service
Center, Used Car Request, DRT, and Financial Status Monitor.
33
ATTACHMENT D
SERVICES AGREEMENT
AGREEMENT FOR CONSULTING BY AUTO-BY-TEL
This Agreement for Consulting ("Agreement") is made and entered into as of
the _____ day of ________, 199__ by and between autobytel.com, a Delaware
corporation with offices at _______________ ("Consultant"), and Auto-By-Tel AB,
a ____________ corporation with offices at _________________("Company"). The
Company desires to retain Consultant as an independent contractor to perform
consulting services for the Company and Consultant is willing to perform such
services on terms set forth more fully below. In consideration of the mutual
promises contained herein, the parties agree as follows:
1. SERVICES. Consultant agrees to perform for the Company the services
described in Exhibit A ("Services") on the terms and conditions set forth
therein.
2. COMPENSATION
(a) Services. Company shall pay Consultant for performing the
Services as shown in Exhibit A.
(b) Expenses. The Company shall also reimburse Consultant for the
reasonable actual travel and living expenses of its personnel engaged in the
performance of Services at locations other than Consultant facilities, together
with other reasonable out-of-pocket expenses incurred in connection with
performance of the Services. Consultant shall adhere to any travel policy
reasonably promulgated by Company, provided that Consultant may incur expenses
up to a total of _____ dollars without Company's prior approval.
(c) Payments. Consultant shall invoice Company for all amounts on or
after the due date. Payment terms shall be net _____ days. Any amounts due
Consultant under this Agreement not received by the date due shall be subject to
a service charge of one and one-half percent (1.5%) per month, or the maximum
charge permitted by law, whichever is less.
3. CONFIDENTIALITY
(a) "Confidential Information" means any information disclosed by
either party to the other party, either directly or indirectly, in writing,
orally or by inspection of tangible objects (including without limitation
documents, prototypes, samples, plant and equipment), which is designated as
"Confidential," "Proprietary" or some similar designation. Information
communicated orally shall be considered Confidential Information if such
information is confirmed in writing as being Confidential Information within a
reasonable time after the initial disclosure. Confidential Information may also
include information disclosed to a disclosing party by third parties.
Confidential Information shall not, however, include any
34
information which (i) was publicly known and made generally available in the
public domain prior to the time of disclosure by the disclosing party; (ii)
becomes publicly known and made generally available after disclosure by the
disclosing party to the receiving party through no action or inaction of the
receiving party; (iii) is already in the possession of the receiving party at
the time of disclosure by the disclosing party as shown by the receiving party's
files and records immediately prior to the time of disclosure; (iv) is obtained
by the receiving party from a third party without a breach of such third party's
obligations of confidentiality; (v) is independently developed by the receiving
party without use of or reference to the disclosing party's Confidential
Information, as shown by documents and other competent evidence in the receiving
party's possession; or (vi) is required by law to be disclosed by the receiving
party, provided that the receiving party gives the disclosing party prompt
written notice of such requirement prior to such disclosure and assistance in
obtaining an order protecting the information from public disclosure.
(b) Non-use and Non-disclosure. Each party agrees not to use any
Confidential Information of the other party for any purpose except to perform
its obligations or exercise its rights under this Agreement. Each party agrees
not to disclose any Confidential Information of the other party to third parties
or to such party's employees, except to those employees of the receiving party
who are required to have the information in order perform such party's
obligations under this Agreement. Neither party shall reverse engineer,
disassemble or decompile any prototypes, software or other tangible objects
which embody the other party's Confidential Information and which are provided
to the party hereunder.
(c) Maintenance of Confidentiality. Each party agrees that it shall take
reasonable measures to protect the secrecy of and avoid disclosure and
unauthorized use of the Confidential Information of the other party. Without
limiting the foregoing, each party shall take at least those measures that it
takes to protect its own most highly confidential information and shall ensure
that its employees who have access to Confidential Information of the other
party have signed a non-use and non-disclosure agreement in content similar to
the provisions hereof, prior to any disclosure of Confidential Information to
such employees. Neither party shall make any copies of the Confidential
Information of the other party unless the same are previously approved in
writing by the other party. Each party shall reproduce the other party's
proprietary rights notices on any such approved copies, in the same manner in
which such notices were set forth in or on the original.
4. OWNERSHIP. The work product resulting from the Services shall consist
of, and shall operate in conjunction with, multiple elements of intellectual
property, as set forth in Exhibit B. The parties' respective rights with respect
to such intellectual property shall be as set forth below. For purposes of this
Agreement, the term "ownership" shall refer to ownership of all intellectual
property rights including, but not limited to, all patent, copyright, trade
secret and trademark rights, as applicable, with respect to the subject
intellectual property:
(a) Company Materials. For all materials designated as "Company
Materials" in Exhibit B, Consultant agrees that such materials are the sole
property of the Company, and shall be considered "works made for hire" as that
term is defined in the United States Copyright Act. Consultant further agrees to
assign
35
(or cause to be assigned) and does hereby assign fully to the Company all such
works and the intellectual property rights relating thereto.
(b) Third Party Materials. For all materials designated as "Third
Party Materials" on Exhibit B, the parties hereby agree that such materials
shall be necessary for Company to use the Company Materials or Consultant
Materials, and Company shall be solely responsible for obtaining necessary
licenses to the Third Party Materials.
(c) Pre-existing Materials and Consultant Materials. For all
materials designated as "Pre-existing Materials" or "Consultant Materials" in
Exhibit B, Company agrees that such materials are the sole property of the
Consultant. Consultant hereby grants to Company a worldwide, perpetual,
royalty-free license to use the Consultant Materials, solely for its own
internal purposes. No other grants of licenses or rights to Company shall be
implied from the provisions stated in this Agreement. Company shall not
obliterate or remove and will reproduce Consultant's intellectual property
notices contained in the Consultant Materials or Pre-existing Materials. Company
shall not reverse engineer, decompile, or otherwise attempt to derive source
code from any portions of the Consultant Materials or Pre-existing Materials
delivered in object code form.
(d) Further Assurances. Each party agrees to execute any additional
documents deemed reasonably necessary to effect and evidence the other party's
rights with respect to the intellectual property elements set forth above.
5. REPORTS. Consultant agrees that it will from time to time during the
term of this Agreement or any extension thereof keep the Company advised as to
Consultant's progress in performing the Services hereunder and that Consultant
will, as requested by the Company, prepare written reports with respect thereto.
It is understood that the time required in the preparation of such written
reports shall be considered time devoted to the performance of Consultant's
Services.
6. TERM AND TERMINATION
(a) Term. This Agreement will commence on the date first written
above and will continue until final completion of the Services or termination as
provided below.
(b) Termination. The Company may terminate this Agreement at any
time upon giving ten (10) days' prior written notice thereof to Consultant,
provided, however, that Company shall pay Consultant for any Services performed
up to the effective date of termination. Either party may terminate this
Agreement upon thirty (30) days' notice of any uncured material breach of this
Agreement by the other party.
(c) Survival. Upon such termination all rights and duties of the
parties toward each other shall cease except Sections 3, 4, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12,
13, 14, and 15 shall survive termination of this Agreement.
7. ASSIGNMENT. Neither this Agreement nor any right hereunder or interest
herein may be assigned or transferred by either party without the express
written consent of the other.
36
8. INDEPENDENT CONTRACTOR. Nothing in this Agreement shall in any way be
construed to constitute Consultant as an agent, employee or representative of
the Company, but Consultant shall perform the Services hereunder as an
independent contractor.
9. ARBITRATION. The parties agree that any dispute or controversy arising
out of or relating to any interpretation, construction, performance or breach of
this Agreement, shall be settled by arbitration to be held in Santa Clara or San
Mateo County, California, in accordance with the rules then in effect of the
American Arbitration Association. The arbitrator may grant injunctions or other
relief in such dispute or controversy. The decision of the arbitrator shall be
final, conclusive and binding on the parties to the arbitration. Judgement may
be entered on the arbitrator's decision in any court of competent jurisdiction.
Company and Consultant shall each pay one-half of the costs and expenses of such
arbitration, and each shall separately pay its respective counsel fees and
expenses. Notwithstanding the above, the parties may seek injunctive relief in
any court of competent jurisdiction for a breach of Sections 3 or 4 of this
Agreement.
10. GOVERNING LAW. This Agreement shall be governed by the laws of the
State of California as applied to agreements entered into and performed within
California by residents of that state. Each party hereby expressly consents to
the nonexclusive personal jurisdiction and venue of the state and federal courts
located in the federal Northern District of California for any lawsuit filed
there against me by the Company arising from or relating to this Agreement.
11. NON-SOLICITATION. Company acknowledges and agrees that the employees
and consultants of Consultant who perform the Services are a valuable asset to
Consultant and are difficult to replace. Accordingly, Company agrees that, for
the term of this Agreement and for a period of _________ months thereafter, it
will not offer employment as an employee, independent contractor, or consultant
to any Consultant employee or consultant. In the event Company breaches the
provisions of this Section 11, the parties agree that it would be difficult to
determine the amount of actual damages to Consultant that would result from such
breach. The parties further agree that in the event Company breaches the
provisions of this Section 11, Company shall pay Consultant liquidated damages
of $__________ for each such breach, which is the parties' good faith estimate
of the amount of damages to Consultant from such breach.
12. WARRANTY DISCLAIMER. CONSULTANT DISCLAIMS ALL IMPLIED WARRANTIES,
INCLUDING ANY AND ALL IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF TITLE MERCHANTABILITY, FITNESS FOR A
PARTICULAR PURPOSE, AND NON-INFRINGEMENT.
13. LIMITATION OF REMEDIES AND DAMAGES THE LIABILITY OF CONSULTANT ARISING
HEREUNDER SHALL BE LIMITED TO FEES PAID BY COMPANY HEREUNDER. CONSULTANT SHALL
NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY CONSEQUENTIAL, INCIDENTAL, OR INDIRECT DAMAGES, INCLUDING
WITHOUT LIMITATION DAMAGES FOR LOSS OF BUSINESS PROFITS AND/OR BUSINESS
INTERRUPTION, WHETHER FORESEEABLE OR NOT, AND WHETHER ARISING IN CONTRACT, TORT,
OR NEGLIGENCE, EVEN IF A REPRESENTATIVE OF CONSULTANT HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE
POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES. THESE
37
LIMITATIONS SHALL APPLY NOTWITHSTANDING ANY FAILURE OF ESSENTIAL PURPOSE OF ANY
LIMITED REMEDY.
14. ENTIRE AGREEMENT. This Agreement and the Exhibits hereto form the
entire agreement of the parties and supersede any prior agreements between them
with respect to the subject matter hereof.
15. WAIVER. Waiver of any term or provision of this Agreement or
forbearance to enforce any term or provision by either party shall not
constitute a waiver as to any subsequent breach or failure of the same term or
provision or a waiver of any other term or provision of this Agreement.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Agreement as of
the day and year first above written.
Company: Consultant:
By: ______________________________ By: _______________________________
Print Name:_______________________ Print Name:________________________
Title:____________________________ Title:_____________________________
38
EXHIBIT A
Services to be performed by Consultant:
Compensation of Consultant:
(a) Rate of pay: ___________________ per ___________________________
(b) Total payment limitation: ______________________________________
(c) Advance payment: _______________________________________________
(d) Expenses authorized for reimbursement by the Company:
(e) Other: _________________________________________________________
(f) Expected duration of project: __________________________________
Company: Consultant:
By: ______________________________ By: _______________________________
Print Name:_______________________ Print Name:________________________
Title:____________________________ Title:_____________________________
39
EXHIBIT B
COMPANY MATERIALS
CONSULTANT MATERIALS
THIRD PARTY MATERIALS
PRE-EXISTING MATERIALS
40
ATTACHMENT E
INVESTMENT RIGHTS AGREEMENT
41
[*] Confidential Treatment Requested
INVESTMENT RIGHTS AGREEMENT
This INVESTMENT RIGHTS AGREEMENT (the "Investment Rights Agreement") is entered
into as of August 7, 1998 (the "Effective Date") by and between autobytel.com
inc., a Delaware corporation with offices at 18872 MacArthur Blvd., Irvine,
California 92612 ("ABT"), Bilia AB, a Swedish corporation with offices at Box
9003, 40091 Goteborg, Sweden ("Bilia"), and Auto-By-Tel AB, a Swedish
corporation with offices at Haradsvagen 255, 14172 Huddinge, Sweden
("ABT/Nordic"), and describes the terms and conditions pursuant to which ABT
will have the right to make certain investments in ABT/Nordic and the associated
rights that ABT will obtain in connection with such investment.
BACKGROUND
WHEREAS, ABT and ABT/Nordic have entered into a License and Service
Agreement of even date herewith (the "License Agreement"), providing for the
grant by ABT to ABT/Nordic of certain rights to use ABT proprietary software,
technology, and business procedures in Finland, Norway, Sweden and Denmark.
WHEREAS, ABT desires to have the right to invest in ABT/Nordic at one or
more times in the future.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual promises and upon the terms
and conditions set forth below, the parties agree as follows:
1. Definitions. All capitalized terms not defined herein shall have the
meaning specified in the License Agreement.
2. Purchase of Debenture. Simultaneously with the execution of this
Agreement, ABT/Nordic is issuing to ABT, at par, a debenture (the "Debenture")
in the principal amount of [*], which grants ABT optional rights to subscribe
for new shares in ABT/Nordic (the "Option"). The Debenture shall not bear
interest. It shall mature on December 31, 1998.
3. Terms of the Option. The Option shall survive the maturity and repayment
of the Debenture. The Option shall entitle ABT to subscribe for what, at the
time the Option is exercised (or, in the case of multiple exercises, the last
exercise), and giving effect to the issuance of shares upon exercise of the
Option, will be [*] of the outstanding voting shares of ABT/Nordic on the
following terms:
(a) ABT may exercise the Option at any time during the term of the
License Agreement, in one or more installments, as to all or any portion of the
shares that are subject to the Option when it is exercised, provided that no
such installment shall be less than the lesser of (i) [*] of the outstanding
voting shares of ABT/Nordic, or (ii) the entire remaining amount of ABT/Nordic
shares which ABT may purchase through exercise of the Option.
42
[*] Confidential Treatment Requested
(b) The Option shall be exercised by written notice given to
ABT/Nordic during the term of the License Agreement. Such notice shall specify
the number of shares for which the Option is being exercised and a date and a
time during normal business hours in Goteborg, Sweden (the "Subscription Time")
for the consummation of ABT's purchase of ABT/Nordic shares through exercise of
the Option. The specified Subscription Time shall not be later than 3:00 P.M.
Goteborg time on the 30th day after the day on which the notice of exercise of
the Option is given.
(c) The class, series and type of shares issuable upon each exercise
of the Option shall be (i) if the Option is exercised at a time when shares of
ABT/Nordic are not quoted on a securities exchange or in another organized
securities market, the class, series and type of voting shares then most
recently issued to either (at ABT's option) Bilia or one or more Third Party
Investors (as defined below) as part of the investment by such persons in
ABT/Nordic, in one or more related transactions, of at least [*] in the
aggregate (the "Then Most Recent Financing"), or (ii) if the Option is exercised
at a time when shares of ABT/Nordic are quoted on a securities exchange or in
another organized securities market, the class, series and type of shares so
quoted.
(d) The exercise price to be paid for the shares issuable upon each
exercise of the Option shall be (i) if the Option is exercised at a time when
securities of ABT/Nordic are not quoted on a securities exchange or in another
organized securities market, the price at which shares of such class, series and
type were issued in the Then Most Recent Financing, or (ii) if the Option is
exercised at a time when shares of ABT/Nordic are quoted on a securities
exchange or in another organized securities market, an amount per share equal to
the lesser of (A) the price at which shares of ABT/Nordic were initially sold to
the public plus an amount equal to interest on that price at the rate of [*] per
annum, compounded quarterly from the date on which the shares were initially
sold to the public, or (B) [*] of the average of the last sale price of the
ABT/Nordic stock on each of the 20 trading days before the day on which the
notice of exercise of the Option is given, as reported on the principal stock
exchange, or in the other principal market, in which ABT/Nordic shares are
traded.
(e) At the Subscription Time specified in the notice of exercise of
the Option, ABT/Nordic shall deliver to ABT certificates representing the shares
ABT is purchasing through exercise of the Option, and ABT shall pay the purchase
price for such shares to ABT/Nordic by wire transfer of funds which are
immediately available in the place of payment, or by another means agreed to by
ABT and ABT/Nordic.
(f) If the Option is exercised at a time when shares of ABT/Nordic
are not quoted on a securities exchange or in another organized securities
market, then, at the time of exercise, ABT and ABT/Nordic shall negotiate in
good faith and enter into an agreement providing ABT the right to require
ABT/Nordic to take all steps required to enable ABT to sell its ABT/Nordic
shares without restriction in any public market in which ABT/Nordic shares are
regularly traded, in compliance with applicable securities laws (including, if
applicable, terms for exchanging shares held by ABT on an equitable basis for
shares of the type which subsequently become regularly traded in a public
market).
(g) If the Option is exercised at a time when shares of ABT/Nordic
are quoted on a securities exchange or in another organized securities market,
then ABT/Nordic shall take all steps required to give ABT the ability,
immediately following such exercise, to sell its ABT/Nordic shares
-2-
43
[*] Confidential Treatment Requested
without restriction in any public market in which ABT/Nordic shares are
regularly traded, in compliance with applicable securities laws.
(h) ABT agrees not to sell its ABT/Nordic shares, without the
consent of Bilia, prior to the later of (i) three years after the date of this
Agreement and (ii) two years from the date of purchase of such shares.
4. Security Issuances by ABT/Nordic.
(a) ABT/Nordic shall not issue any equity securities (or securities
convertible into or exercisable for equity securities) to any person other than
Bilia or an affiliate of Bilia (such other type of person being referred to as a
"Third Party Investor"), other than in a public offering, unless (i) at least 15
days before such securities are expected to be issued, ABT/Nordic notifies ABT
of the proposed issuance, including a description of the securities to be
issued, a description of the price and terms upon which the securities are
proposed to be issued, the identity of each Third Party Investor to whom the
securities are proposed to be issued, and any other reasonably relevant details
regarding the proposed transaction, and (ii) ABT does not, during the 15 days
after ABT/Nordic notifies ABT about the proposed issuance, reasonably object to
the issuance. An objection to the issuance of securities to a firm that operates
a competing Internet-based system for marketing automobiles or trucks, or to an
affiliate of such a firm. will under no circumstances be unreasonable. An
objection to issuance of securities based upon the identity of the Third Party
Investor will not be reasonable if the Third Party Investor is, or controls, a
dealer who will participate in the Local Business. An objection to an issuance
of securities will be reasonable if it (i) would reduce Bilia's ownership in
ABT/Nordic to below [*] (or to below [*] if ABT has exercised the Option in
full, or a pro-rated percentage between [*] and [*] if ABT has exercised the
option in part), or (ii) would cause anyone other than Bilia to have directly or
indirectly (other than as a shareholder of Bilia) a greater percentage ownership
in ABT/Nordic than Bilia's.
(b) Each Third Party Investor to whom ABT/Nordic issues securities,
other than in a public offering, must agree (i) not to sell those securities for
at least three years from the date of acquisition of such securities and (ii)
that if the Third Party Investor desires to sell, in a single transaction or a
series of related transactions, securities which constitute more than [*] of the
outstanding securities of any class of stock of ABT/Nordic, (x) such Third Party
Investor shall give each of Bilia and ABT at least 10 days prior written notice
of the sale and shall consider any purchase proposals which Bilia or ABT may
make during that 10 day period, and (y) if neither Bilia nor ABT makes a
purchase proposal during such 10 day period, or if either or both of them makes
a purchase proposal but the Third Party Investor rejects that purchase proposal,
the Third Party Investor may sell the securities described in the notice at any
time within 120 days after the end of the 10 day period. Any such sale permitted
by the foregoing sentence shall be (A) if neither Bilia nor ABT made a purchase
proposal, on any terms that the Third Party Investor is willing to accept, or
(B) if Bilia or ABT made a purchase proposal which the Third Party Investor did
not accept, on terms which are no less favorable to the Third Party Investor
than the terms of the proposal by Bilia or ABT which was most favorable to the
Third Party Investor.
(c) ABT/Nordic may issue securities in one or more public offerings,
without prior notice to or consent from ABT, provided that (i) the securities
sold in the initial public offering do not
-3-
44
[*] Confidential Treatment Requested
represent more than [*] of the voting equity securities of ABT/Nordic which will
be outstanding immediately after the public offering, and (ii) the public
offering will not reduce Bilia's ownership in ABT/Nordic to less than [*] (or
less than [*] if ABT has exercised the Option in full, or a prorated percentage
between [*] and [*] if ABT has exercised the option in part).
5. Bilia Sales of ABT/Nordic Securities.
(a) Bilia shall not sell, transfer or otherwise dispose of any
equity securities of ABT/Nordic to anyone other than a majority owned subsidiary
of Bilia (i) at any time prior to three years after the date hereof, and (ii) at
any time thereafter and prior to five years after the date hereof, if such sale,
transfer or other disposition (A) would reduce Bilia's ownership in ABT/Nordic
to below [*] (or to below [*] if ABT has exercised the Option in full, or a
pro-rated percentage between [*] and [*] if ABT has exercised the option in
part), or (B) would cause anyone other than Bilia to have directly or indirectly
(other than as a shareholder of Bilia) a greater percentage ownership in
ABT/Nordic than Bilia's.
(b) If at any time after three years after the date hereof, and
subject to the prohibition contained in Section 5(a)(ii), Bilia desires to sell
ABT/Nordic securities to anyone other than a majority owned subsidiary of Bilia,
before doing so, Bilia shall notify ABT of its desire to sell such securities,
the number and class, series and type of the securities it desires to sell, and
the minimum price or other minimum consideration that Bilia will accept for such
securities. ABT shall then have an option, exercisable by written notice given
to Bilia within 15 days after Bilia gives its notice to ABT, to purchase all,
but not less than all, of the securities specified in Bilia's notice for the
minimum price specified in such notice (or, if the minimum consideration
specified in the notice is other than cash, for the cash value of that minimum
consideration). If ABT exercises the option as to the securities specified in
Bilia's notice, ABT shall purchase such securities, and pay for those
securities, on a day specified in ABT's notice of exercise which is not fewer
than 10 nor more than 30 days after the day on which ABT's notice of exercise is
given. If ABT does not exercise the option, Bilia may, at any time within 120
days after the option expires, sell such securities for a price which is not
less than the minimum price specified in Bilia's notice.
6. Board Seats. So long as the License Agreement is in effect, Bilia shall
vote all securities of ABT/Nordic owned by it for the election to the
Supervisory Board (or similar ultimate governing body) of ABT/Nordic of one
person designated by ABT, and Bilia and ABT/Nordic shall do all other things
which are reasonably in their respective powers to cause that person to be
elected to the Supervisory Board (or similar body) of ABT/Nordic. ABT
acknowledges that meetings of the ABT/Nordic Supervisory Board (or similar body)
may be conducted in Swedish.
7. Shareholder Agreement. If, before ABT/Nordic securities have been
offered to the public or otherwise become quoted on a securities exchange or in
another organized securities market, ABT acquires any securities of ABT/Nordic,
then ABT, Bilia and ABT/Nordic shall negotiate in good faith and enter into an
investor rights agreement which is typical for an investment by a corporate
investor in a privately held company. Such agreement shall provide for, at a
minimum, (i) rights of ABT to receive periodic financial statements, budgets and
other financial information (or, after securities of ABT/Nordic are quoted on a
securities exchange or in another organized securities market, all
-4-
45
information which is provided to public shareholders), and (ii) access at
reasonable times to ABT/Nordic's management.
8. Non-Competition Covenant of Bilia. During the term of the License
Agreement and for any additional period during which ABT/Nordic is limited from
competing with ABT pursuant to Section 11.5(c) thereof, Bilia shall not, either
for its own account, or through any parent, subsidiary or affiliate, operate a
Local Business in the Territory (as such terms are defined in the License
Agreement). Notwithstanding the above, nothing contained herein shall prohibit
Bilia from marketing automobiles which it sells as a dealer nor from marketing
trucks (gross weight of at least 3.5 tons) and construction vehicles which it
sells as a distributor, nor from marketing parts and/or services for each of the
foregoing; so long as such business does not infringe ABT's trademarks or other
intellectual property rights. If Bilia assigns this Agreement to another party
with ABT's consent under Section 10, this obligation will continue to bind Bilia
and shall also bind such assignee.
9. Notices. Any notice, submission, or communication required or permitted
under the terms of this Investment Rights Agreement, or required by law, whether
or not so required elsewhere in this Investment Rights Agreement, must be in
writing and must be (a) delivered in person, (b) sent by first class registered
mail, return receipt requested, or air mail, as appropriate, or (c) sent by
overnight air courier; in each case properly posted and fully prepaid to the
appropriate address set forth below. Either party may change its address for
notice by notice to the other party given in accordance with this Section 9.
Notices shall be considered to have been given at the time of the earlier of (p)
actual delivery in person, (q) the date of a receipt of such notice signed by an
authorized representative of the party being notified, (r) the date of a written
confirmation of receipt by the party being notified, or (s) thirty (30) days
after deposit in the mail as set forth above.
10. Nonassignment/Binding Agreement. Neither this Investment Rights
Agreement, nor any obligation or right under this Investment Rights Agreement,
may be assigned or otherwise transferred (i) by ABT/Nordic or Bilia (except to
each other), in whole or in part, whether voluntarily, or by operation of law,
other than as part of a sale of its business substantially as an entirety,
without the prior written consent of ABT, or (ii) by ABT, in whole or in part,
whether voluntarily, or by operation of law, other than as part of a sale of its
business substantially as an entirety, without the prior written consent of
ABT/Nordic and Bilia. Any permitted assignee (including without limitation
ABT/Nordic) must agree in writing to be bound by all the terms and conditions of
this Investment Rights Agreement. Subject to the foregoing, this Investment
Rights Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the parties
and their respective successors and assigns.
11. Miscellaneous
(a) No Waiver; Amendment. Any waiver of the provisions of this
Investment Rights Agreement or of a party's rights or remedies under this
Investment Rights Agreement must be in writing to be effective. Failure,
neglect, or delay by a party to enforce the provisions of this Investment Rights
Agreement or its rights or remedies at any time shall not be construed and shall
not be deemed to be a waiver of such party's rights under this Investment Rights
Agreement and shall not in any way affect the validity of the whole or any part
of this Investment Rights Agreement or prejudice such party's right
-5-
46
to take subsequent action. This Investment Rights Agreement may not be amended,
except by a writing signed by all parties.
(b) Severability. If any term, condition or provision of this
Investment Rights Agreement is found to be invalid, unlawful or unenforceable to
any extent, the parties shall endeavor in good faith to agree to such amendments
that will preserve, as far as possible, the intentions expressed in this
Investment Rights Agreement. If the parties fail to agree on such an amendment,
such invalid term, condition or provision shall be severed from the remaining
terms, conditions and provisions, which shall continue to be valid and
enforceable to the fullest extent permitted by law.
(c) Entire Agreement. This Investment Rights Agreement contains the
entire agreement of the parties with respect to the subject matter of this
Investment Rights Agreement and supersedes all previous communications,
representations, understandings and agreements, either oral or written, between
the parties with respect to said subject matter.
(d) Consent. Unless expressly provided otherwise in this Investment
Rights Agreement, any prior consent of any party that is required before another
party may take an action may be granted or withheld in the sole and absolute
discretion of the party whose consent is required.
(e) Rights and Remedies. No exercise or enforcement by any party of
any right or remedy under this Investment Rights Agreement shall preclude the
enforcement by such party of any other right or remedy under this Investment
Rights Agreement or that such party is entitled by law to enforce.
(f) Counterparts. This Investment Rights Agreement may be executed
in counterparts, each of which so executed shall be deemed to be an original and
such counterparts together shall constitute one and the same agreement.
(g) Governing Law. This Investment Rights Agreement shall be
interpreted and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of California
and the United States of America, without regard to conflict of law principles,
except insofar as it involves Swedish corporate law relating to the issuance of
securities by ABT/Nordic. [Any dispute arising out of this Investment Rights
Agreement shall be subject to the exclusive venue of the state and federal
courts in California.]
(h) Language. This Investment Rights Agreement is in the English
language only, which language shall be controlling in all respects, and all
versions hereof in any other language shall not be binding on the parties
hereto. All communications and notices to be made or given pursuant to this
Investment Rights Agreement shall be in the English language.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have caused this Investment Rights Agreement to
be signed by duly authorized representatives on the dates set forth below.
-6-
47
autobytel.com inc. ("ABT") Auto-By-Tel AB ("ABT/Nordic")
By: /s/ ROBERT S. GRIMES By: /s/ JOHAN ROHSS & LARS ANDERSSON
------------------------------ --------------------------------
Name: ROBERT S. GRIMES Name: JOHAN ROHSS & LARS ANDERSSON
----------------------------- -------------------------------
Title: Executive V.P. Title: Chairman & Director
---------------------------- ------------------------------
Date: August 7, 1998 Date: August 7, 1998
----------------------------- -------------------------------
Address: 18872 MacArthur Blvd. Address: HARADSVAGEN 255
-------------------------- ----------------------------
Irvine, CA 92612 141 72 Huddinge, Sweden
-------------------------- ----------------------------
BILIA AB ("Bilia")
By: /s/ MATS JANSSON
------------------------------
Name: MATS JANSSON
-----------------------------
Title: President & CEO
----------------------------
Date: August 7, 1998
-----------------------------
Address: Box 9003 40091
--------------------------
Goteborg, Sweden
--------------------------
-7-
48
ATTACHMENT F
BILIA GUARANTEE LETTER
WHEREAS, Auto-By-Tel AB, a Swedish corporation with offices at Haradsvagen 255,
14172 Huddinge, Sweden ("ABT/Nordic") and auto-by-tel inc., a Delaware
corporation with offices at 18872 MacArthur Boulevard, Irvine, California, 92612
("ABT") have entered into a License and Services Agreement of even date herewith
("Agreement"); and
WHEREAS, ABT/Nordic and ABT wish Bilia AB, a Swedish company with an address at
Box 9003, 40091 Goteborg, Sweden ("Bilia"), to guarantee certain obligations
under the Agreement, and Bilia is willing to do so;
NOW, THEREFORE, Bilia hereby unconditionally guarantees to ABT the obligations
of ABT/Nordic to pay (a) the Minimum Annual License Fee due under the Agreement
with regard to the first three (3) Fiscal Years; and (b) and Maintenance Fees
due under the Agreement for the first three (3) years after the Effective Date.
All capitalized terms not defined herein will have the meaning assigned to them
in the Agreement.
Bilia AB
By: _____________________________
Title: __________________________
Date: ___________________________
49
[*] Confidential Treatment Requested
AUTOBYTEL.COM INC.
August 7, 1998
Johan Rohss
Auto-By-Tel AB
Haradsvagen 255,
14172 Huddinge,
Sweden
RE: LICENSE AND SERVICES AGREEMENT
Dear Mr. Rohss:
This letter supplements the terms of that certain License and Services
Agreement dated [8/7/98] (the "Agreement") between autobytel.com inc. ("ABT")
and Auto-By-Tel AB ("ABT/Nordic") with respect to the marketing obligations and
expenses in the Global Brand Protocols. Capitalized terms used in this letter
agreement and not otherwise defined herein shall have the meanings specified in
the Agreement.
ABT/Nordic will designate a person with marketing and advertising
experience that will communicate, on a weekly basis, if necessary, with ABT's
designated marketing brand steward contact.
ABT, Nordic and ABT will share expenses on an annual basis with respect to
stewarding the brand as follows: To the extent the invoices for these annual
expenses are up to and including the first $[*], ABT/Nordic shall be responsible
for all payments within 30 days after receipt of such invoices; To the extent
the invoices for these annual expenses are from $[*] up to and including $[*],
ABT will be responsible for such payments; and To the extent the invoices for
these annual expenses exceed $[*]. ABT/Nordic and ABT will mutually resolve a
solution for the payment of these expenses.
If the foregoing correctly states your understanding of our agreement,
please execute both copies of this letter in the appropriate space below, and
return one copy to me.
Very truly yours,
autobytel.com inc.
/s/ ROBERT S. GRIMES
Robert S. Grimes
Executive Vice President
50
BILIA GUARANTEE LETTER
WHEREAS, Auto-By-Tel AB, a Swedish corporation with offices at Haradsvagen 255,
14172 Huddinge, Sweden ("ABT/Nordic") and autobytel.com inc., a Delaware
corporation with offices at 18872 MacArthur Boulevard, Irvine, California, 92612
("ABT") have entered into a License and Services Agreement of even date herewith
("Agreement"); and
WHEREAS, ABT/Nordic and ABT wish Bilia AB, a Swedish company with an address at
Box 9003, 40091 Goteborg, Sweden to guarantee certain obligations under the
Agreement, and Bilia is willing to do so;
NOW, THEREFORE. Bilia hereby unconditionally guarantees to ABT the obligations
of ABT/Nordic to pay (a) the Minimum Annual License Fee due under the Agreement
with regard to the first three (3) Fiscal Years; and (b) and Maintenance Fees
due under the Agreement for the first three (3) years after the Effective Date.
All capitalized terms not defined herein will have the meaning assigned to them
in the Agreement.
Bilia AB
By: [ILLEGIBLE]
-------------------------------
Title: President & CEO
----------------------------
Date: August 2, 1998
-----------------------------
51
Accepted and agreed:
Auto-By-Tel AB
By: /s/ JOHAN ROHSS
-------------------------------
Name: Mr. Johan Rohss
Title: Chairman
-----------------------------
Date: August 7, 1998
------------------------------