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What TV doesn't, print can't; we deliver.
NEW DELHI: India’s largest airline, IndiGo, has filed a trademark infringement suit in the Delhi High Court against Mahindra Electric Automobile Limited. The dispute revolves around Mahindra’s use of the term ‘6E’ in its upcoming car model, Mahindra BE 6E, slated for launch in February 2025.
The case was initially listed before Justice Amit Bansal on Tuesday, but the judge recused himself from hearing the matter. The next hearing is scheduled for December 9. In the meantime, IndiGo’s counsel, Senior Advocate Sandeep Sethi, informed the court that Mahindra had reached out to initiate discussions to resolve the matter.
IndiGo Airlines has built its brand identity around the callsign “6E,” which is not only its operational designator but also a significant component of its customer-centric branding. The airline uses “6E” across a range of services, such as 6E Prime (seat selection and other priority benefits), 6E Flex (flexible rescheduling and cancellations), and other customizable options like extra baggage and lounge access.
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IndiGo registered the trademark ‘6E Link’ in 2015 under multiple classes, including:
Class 9: For illuminated advertising displays and signs.
Class 35: For online and television advertising, as well as advertising services related to transport.
Class 39: Covering passenger and goods transportation services.
Class 16: For printed advertising materials like pamphlets and hoardings.
In contrast, Mahindra Electric recently secured preliminary approval from the trademark registrar for the term ‘BE 6E’ under Class 12. This would allow Mahindra to use the mark for motor vehicles, including electric and utility vehicles, but exclude two-wheelers and their components.
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IndiGo is challenging the approval granted to Mahindra, citing potential brand confusion and infringement of its established trademark. Represented by Senior Advocate Sandeep Sethi and a legal team from Ira Law, including Advocates Aditya Gupta, Mukul Kocchar, and Chhavi Tokas, IndiGo has approached the Intellectual Property Division of the Delhi High Court seeking relief.
As the matter develops, all eyes are on the upcoming hearing to determine the resolution of this trademark clash between two major Indian brands.
