IndiGo Files Trademark Infringement Lawsuit Against Mahindra Electric For New Car Using ‘6E’, M&M Responds

The case is scheduled for hearing on December 9, 2024. The airline’s IATA code is ‘6E’ and it uses the code extensively for its branding

The firm said it failed to see a conflict in its branding for the new car.

Source : Mahindra Electric

IndiGo airline operator, InterGlobe Aviation, submitted a trademark infringement lawsuit against Mahindra Electric Automobile Limited (MEAL) in the Delhi High Court. The company filed the case against the automaker for using ‘6E’ in its new car called Mahindra BE 6e, set to release next year in February.

The case is scheduled for hearing on December 9, 2024. The airline’s IATA code is ‘6E’ and it uses the code extensively for its branding. MEAL is the subsidiary of the Mahindra & Mahindra firm.

Addressing the news reports about the lawsuit, the carmaker said, “Mahindra revealed its electric origin SUVs the BE 6e and XEV 9e on November 26, 2024. Mahindra has applied for trade mark registration under class 12 (vehicles) for “BE 6e” a part of its electric origin SUV portfolio.”

The firm said it failed to see a conflict in its branding for the new car. “We hence don’t see a conflict as Mahindra’s mark is “BE 6e,” not the standalone “6E.” It differs fundamentally from Indigo’s “6E,” which represents an airline, eliminating any risk of confusion. The distinct styling further emphasizes  their uniqueness,” Mahindra stated.

Notably, Mahindra & Mahindra (M&M) expanded their electric vehicle portfolio with two all-new models, BE 6e and XEV 9e. The deliveries for these vehicles are expected to begin in February-March next year. The starting price range of entry-level BE 6e and XEV 9e models is Rs 18.9 lakh and Rs 21.9 lakh (ex-showroom) respectively.

The carmaker acknowledged the concerns of InterGlobe and added, “We have taken on board the concerns that InterGlobe Aviation Limited have to infringement of their goodwill, which was not our intention. We are engaged in discussions with them to find an amicable solution.”