*The story has been updated with a statement from Mahindra*
InterGlobe Aviation Limited, parent company of Indigo Airlines, has reportedly sued Mahindra & Mahindra for unauthorised use of the ‘6e’ moniker. For those unaware of recent developments in the world of automobiles, Mahindra Electric Automobile Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of M&M, had launched the first two electric vehicles (EV) under its Electric Origin range last week— XEV 9e and BE 6e.
According to a report by Bar & Bench, India’s largest airline IndiGo has filed a suit before the Delhi High Court for infringement of trademark against Mahindra Electric Automobile Limited for using ‘6E’ in its electric SUV called BE 6e. Deliveries of the BE 6e are slated to commence February 2025 onwards.
The report further states that the case came up before Justice Amit Bansal on Tuesday. However, the judge chose to recuse from hearing the matter. The case is now expected to come up for hearing on December 9. Meanwhile, Senior Advocate Sandeep Sethi, who appeared for IndiGo informed the Court that Mahindra had reached out to the airline last evening and an effort is being made to discuss the issue.
Indigo Vs Mahindra: What’s the case?
IndiGo Airlines, operating under the distinctive “6E” callsign, is not only its official designator but also a key element of its branding offering a wide range of services including 6E Prime, which offers premium amenities like priority boarding and complimentary snacks, and 6E Flex, which provides travelers with the flexibility to modify or cancel their bookings.
Furthermore, 6E add-ons allow travelers to tailor their journey with options like extra baggage allowance, pre-booked meals, and lounge access. Recognizing the importance of protecting its brand identity, IndiGo registered the trademark “6E Link” in 2015 for various services, including transportation and telecommunications.
On the other hand, Mahindra applied for the trademark “BE 6e” under class 12 which got approved by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry on 25 November 2023 just a day ahead before its official launch. This registration permits Mahindra to use 6e for a wide range of motor vehicles and related components.
If this petition by Indigo is accepted by the Delhi Court, then Mahindra could be embroiled in a long legal tussle with the airlines. This development has now elicited an official response from Mahindra.
“Mahindra revealed its electric origin SUVs the BE 6e and XEV 9e on November 26, 2024. Mahindra has applied for trade mark registration under class 12 ( vehicles) for “BE 6e” a part of its electric-origin SUV portfolio. We hence don’t see a conflict as Mahindra’s mark is “BE 6e,” not the standalone “6E.” It differs fundamentally from Indigo’s “6E,” which represents an airline, eliminating any risk of confusion. The distinct styling further emphasizes their uniqueness.
We have taken on board the concerns that InterGlobe Aviation Limited has to infringement of their goodwill, which was not our intention. We are engaged in discussions with them to find an amicable solution.“
Source: Bar & Bench
