6E: IndiGo files trademark infringement suit against with Mahindra Electric over upcoming EV's 'BE 6e' name

NEW DELHI: IndiGo has filed a trademark infringement suit against Mahindra Electric Automobile Ltd objecting to the latter naming its upcoming EV as BE 6E as “6E” is the airline’s flight code. Mahindra’s electric car with this name is set to be launched early next year.
Titled Interglobe Aviation (IndiGo parent) Vs Mahindra Electric Automobile Ltd, the case was on Tuesday listed to be heard in the court of Justice Amit Bansal. However, the judge recused himself from hearing the matter. The next hearing is scheduled for Dec 9. Appearing for IndiGo, senior advocate Sandeep Sethi informed the court that Mahindra had initiated discussions with the airline to address the issue.
In a statement, IndiGo said: “The ‘6E’ mark is an integral part of IndiGo’s identity for the past 18 years and is a registered trademark that holds strong global recognition. The ‘6E’ mark, whether standalone or in its variants and formative forms, is extensively used by IndiGo for its offerings and for goods and services provided in collaboration with trusted partners.”
“Any unauthorised use of the ‘6E’ mark, whether standalone or in any form, constitutes an infringement of IndiGo’s rights, reputation, and goodwill. IndiGo is committed to taking all necessary and appropriate steps to safeguard its intellectual property and brand identity,” the airline said.
In a statement, Mahindra said it revealed its electric origin SUVs the BE 6e and XEV 9e on Nov 26, 2024. “Mahindra has applied for trade mark registration under class 12 (vehicles) for ‘BE 6e’ a part of its electric origin SUV portfolio. 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 emphasises their uniqueness. 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.”
This is the second time IndiGo is locked in a legal battle with to some other company using a name associated with it. In 2015, the airline had a trademark dispute with Tata Motors which then used to sell its sedan under the name IndiGo.