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India’s largest airline, IndiGo, has filed a trademark infringement suit against Mahindra Electric Automobile Limited in the Delhi High Court over the use of “6E” in its upcoming electric vehicle, the Mahindra BE 6E. The model should be launched on Indian roads in February 2025, according to Bar and Bench.
The case was presented to Justice Amit Bansal on Tuesday, but the judge refused to hear it. The case is expected to be heard on December 9.
In court, Advocate Sandeep Sethi, representing IndiGo, revealed that Mahindra had contacted the airline the previous evening to discuss the issue to resolve the issue.
Controversy About ‘6E‘
IndiGo Airlines has been operating under the banner of “6E,” which not only requires branding but also includes a variety of passenger services designed to improve travel experience. These services include 6E Prime, which offers benefits such as seat selection and forward view, and 6E Flex, which offers unlimited flexibility in reconfiguration and cancellation. In addition, the “6E” model has options that travelers will love, including extra luggage and pre-booked meals.
IndiGo obtained registration for the “6E Link” trademark in several classes in 2015, covering areas such as electronic advertising, transportation services, and printed materials. Specifically, pilot rights in the following categories:
– Class 9: Electronic advertising displays and illuminated signs
– Class 35: Advertising services, including internet and television advertising
– Class 39: Services of passenger and cargo aircraft
– Class 16: Printed advertising materials such as leaflets and brochures
On November 25, Mahindra Electric’s application to register the word “BE 6E” in Class 12 was approved by the notary. If approved, the registration would allow Mahindra to use “6E” for a variety of vehicles, including electric vehicles and internal combustion engines in various categories, except for two-wheelers.
The Mahindra BE 6E has attracted a lot of attention online for its stylish design and high-end equipment, although bookings are yet to open, and deliveries are expected to begin in February 2025.
Next Steps
IndiGo is seeking relief from the Intellectual Property division of the Delhi High Court regarding this type of dispute. Advocacy for IndiGo is led by Senior Advocate Sethi, who is supported by the Ira Law team, including Advocates Aditya Gupta, Mukul Kocchar, and Chhavi Tokas.
M&M’s at 6E
A Mahindra spokesperson commented on the matter saying, “Mahindra unveiled its electric SUVs, BE 6e and XEV 9e, on November 26, 2024. Mahindra applied for trademark registration under class 12 (vehicles) for “BE 6e,” section. its electric SUV profile.
“Therefore, we don’t see any conflict as Mahindra’s brand is ‘BE 6e,’ and not ‘6E’ standing for it. It is very different from Indigo’s ‘6E,'” he added.
