Indian airline IndiGo has filed a legal suit against Mahindra Electric Automobile Limited, alleging trademark infringement over the automaker’s use of "6E" in its upcoming electric vehicle, the Mahindra BE 6E. The dispute has reached the Delhi High Court, with the next hearing scheduled for December 9, 2024.

During an initial hearing, Justice Amit Bansal recused himself from the case. Meanwhile, Mahindra Electric has expressed its willingness to engage in discussions with IndiGo to reach an "amicable solution."

IndiGo’s Trademark and Branding

IndiGo operates under the call sign "6E," a key component of its branding for nearly two decades. The airline uses the "6E" mark across various services, including 6E Prime, which offers seat selection, priority check-in, and onboard snacks, and 6E Flex, which allows flexible rescheduling and cancellations.

The trademark "6E Link" was registered by IndiGo in 2015 under several classes, granting it rights in areas such as advertising, airline services, and printed materials. IndiGo contends that Mahindra’s use of "6E" infringes on its well-established trademark and risks diluting its identity and goodwill.

In an official statement, IndiGo emphasized the importance of the "6E" mark to its global brand identity, stating, "Any unauthorized use of the '6E' mark constitutes an infringement of IndiGo’s rights, reputation, and goodwill. IndiGo will take all necessary steps to protect its intellectual property."

Mahindra’s Trademark and Electric Vehicle Launch

Mahindra Electric recently had its trademark "BE 6E" accepted under Class 12 by the Registrar of Trademarks, covering motor vehicles and their components. The automaker’s electric SUV, the BE 6E, is set to launch in February 2025 and has generated considerable interest for its advanced features.

In its defense, Mahindra clarified that its trademark includes the prefix "BE" and is distinct from IndiGo’s standalone "6E." "Mahindra’s mark is 'BE 6e,' not the standalone '6E,' which belongs to IndiGo. The distinct styling and purpose of the marks ensure no risk of confusion," the company said.

Looking Ahead

While IndiGo argues that Mahindra’s use of "6E" infringes on its trademark, Mahindra maintains that its branding is sufficiently distinct. As both sides present their cases, the Delhi High Court’s decision could set an important precedent in India’s trademark law.