This letter says it all - it also acknowledges that some people like the bike but simply can't afford it. In the design video I am sure it says the original aim was to make an affordable £100 bike (in 1980s money).

A part from any patents Strida shape is so distinctive I am sure they must be able to get good protection using copyright laws - if Chinese officials would enforce them.

I personally prefer to support the originators ie Brompton, Strida, Dahon, swift, moulton, R&M, Pacific, downtube, etc.