In the latest turn of events, Indigo dragged Mahindra & Mahindra’s subsidiary, Mahindra Electric Automobile Limited, to court for using the word “6E” in the name of their new electric vehicle, the BE 6E. A trademark infringement lawsuit was filed against the company in the Delhi High Court. According to the Economic Times, the case was briefly presented before Justice Amit Bansal, but he later removed himself from it. The next hearing is now scheduled for December 9.
What is the “6E” Angle?
IndiGo utilises “6E” as both its callsign and a central element of its branding, featuring services like 6E Prime and 6E Flex. The airline secured the “6E Link” trademark in 2015, covering advertising and airline-related services.
Meanwhile, Mahindra & Mahindra mentioned the trademark application for ‘BE 6E‘ was submitted under Class 12, which is associated with vehicles, setting it apart from IndiGo’s trademark registered for airline services.
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Mahindra stated that its “BE 6E” is fundamentally distinct from IndiGo’s “6E.” While IndiGo’s mark pertains to an airline, Mahindra’s branding represents its electric vehicles, making consumer confusion unlikely. Additionally, the unique design and purpose of each trademark highlight their individuality.
The company further stated in the filings on the exchange, “We have taken note of IndiGo’s concerns regarding any potential infringement of their goodwill, which was not our intention. Discussions are ongoing with IndiGo to resolve the matter amicably.“
