A legal battle is brewing between two giants: Mahindra Electric Automobiles and IndiGo Airlines. The dispute centers around the use of the term “6E” in Mahindra’s upcoming electric SUV, the BE 6e. IndiGo claims that Mahindra’s use of “6E” infringes on its trademark and could confuse consumers.
IndiGo, the largest airline in India, has been using the “6E” identifier for nearly two decades. It’s not just a callsign; it’s a part of the airline’s identity, used in services like 6E Prime and 6E Flex. IndiGo argues that Mahindra’s BE 6e could dilute its brand identity and mislead customers.
Mahindra, on the other hand, denies any wrongdoing. The company says that “BE 6e” is specific to its electric SUV portfolio and fundamentally different from IndiGo’s “6E”. Mahindra’s spokesperson emphasized that the distinct styling and context eliminate any risk of confusion.
The case is currently in the Delhi High Court, and legal experts are weighing in. Germaine Pereira, a partner at Solomon & Co., explains that trademarks are crucial for distinguishing goods and services. She adds that IndiGo’s “6E” has strong global recognition and is a valid mark under law.
IndiGo’s CEO, Ronojoy Dutta, stated, “We are committed to protecting our intellectual property and brand identity. Any unauthorized use of the ‘6E’ mark is an infringement of our rights.” Dutta also mentioned that IndiGo is open to resolving the issue amicably.
Mahindra’s CEO, Anand Mahindra, responded, “We respect IndiGo’s concerns and are in discussions to find a solution. We believe our BE 6e is distinct and does not infringe on IndiGo’s trademark.”
The outcome of this lawsuit could set a precedent for intellectual property rights in India. It highlights the growing challenges companies face in protecting their brand identity in an era of diverse markets.
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