IndiGo Sues Mahindra Over Trademark Violation for ‘6E’ in BE 6E EV

IndiGo Files Lawsuit Against Mahindra for Trademark Infringement Over ‘6E’

IndiGo Airlines, operated by InterGlobe Aviation, has filed a lawsuit against Mahindra Electric Automobiles Limited. The case concerns the alleged trademark infringement involving the use of “6E” in Mahindra’s recently launched electric vehicle, “Mahindra BE 6E.” IndiGo claims the use of “6E” violates its trademark, which represents its branding and passenger services.

Delhi High Court Hearing Scheduled

The case was presented before Justice Amit Bansal at the Delhi High Court on December 3, 2024. However, the judge recused himself from the case, and the hearing has now been rescheduled for December 9, 2024.

Mahindra Denies Trademark Violation

In an official statement, Mahindra Electric clarified, “There is no room for conflict, as our branding uses ‘BE 6e,’ which is distinctly different from IndiGo’s ‘6E.’ Additionally, the styling of both trademarks further differentiates them.” The company also stated that discussions with IndiGo are ongoing to resolve the matter amicably.

IndiGo’s Extensive Use of ‘6E’ in Branding

IndiGo operates under the call sign “6E,” which is integral to its branding. The airline offers various “6E”-branded services, such as 6E Prime, 6E Flex, and 6E Extra, providing passengers with options like seat selection, flexible rescheduling, priority check-in, and additional baggage allowances. The airline registered the “6E Link” trademark in 2015 under multiple categories, including Class-9, Class-16, Class-35, and Class-39.

Mahindra Seeks ‘BE 6E’ Trademark

On November 25, 2024, Mahindra applied for the registration of “BE 6E” under Class-12 with the Registrar of Trademarks. If approved, Mahindra will secure rights to use the designation for electric and combustion-engine vehicles, excluding two-wheelers.

Mahindra BE 6E and XEV 9e: Features and Launch Details

On November 26, 2024, Mahindra launched two electric SUVs, BE 6e and XEV 9e, as part of its “Born Electric” range. Built on Mahindra’s INGLO platform, these vehicles feature a modular skateboard architecture designed specifically for EVs.

Key specifications include:

• Range: 500 km on a full charge
• Acceleration: 0-100 kmph in 6.7 seconds
• Pricing:
  • BE 6E: ₹18.90 lakh (ex-showroom)
  • XEV 9e: ₹21.90 lakh (ex-showroom)
• Delivery: Starting February 2025

Both models promise advanced performance and efficiency, targeting the growing EV market in India.

A Developing Legal Battle

As Mahindra and IndiGo proceed with legal discussions, the case highlights the challenges companies face in protecting and differentiating their brands in competitive markets.