IndiGo Files Trademark Infringement Suit Against Mahindra Electric Over ‘6E’ Branding

India’s leading airline, IndiGo, has filed a trademark infringement lawsuit against Mahindra Electric Automobile in the Delhi High Court, challenging the use of “6E” in Mahindra’s upcoming electric car, the Mahindra BE 6E, scheduled for launch in February 2025, as per Bar and Bench. The dispute highlights a potential clash between two well-known brands over the use of a distinctive alphanumeric identifier.

The case, titled Interglobe Aviation vs. Mahindra Electric Automobile, was initially listed before Justice Amit Bansal on Tuesday. However, the judge recused himself, and the matter will now be heard on December 9. IndiGo is represented by Senior Advocate Sandeep Sethi, supported by a legal team from Ira Law.

IndiGo’s Claim
IndiGo, which operates under the callsign “6E,” asserts that this identifier is integral to its brand identity. The airline has built a range of passenger-centric services around the “6E” branding, including 6E Prime, 6E Flex, and 6E Add-ons, all of which are designed to enhance customer experience. IndiGo registered the trademark “6E Link” in 2015, covering multiple trademark classes:

Class 9: Advertising services
Class 35: Online and transport-related advertising
Class 39: Airline transport services
Class 16: Printed advertising materials
IndiGo argues that Mahindra Electric’s use of “6E” in its car branding could create consumer confusion and dilute the airline’s established brand identity.

Mahindra’s Position
Mahindra Electric has obtained trademark approval for “BE 6E” under Class 12, which specifically pertains to motor vehicles (excluding two-wheelers). The company has initiated discussions with IndiGo to resolve the dispute amicably, as confirmed by Senior Advocate Sandeep Sethi in court.

Importance of Trademark Classes
Trademark classes categorize goods and services for registration, helping businesses and intellectual property authorities define the scope of trademark protection and resolve potential conflicts. IndiGo’s claim revolves around the overlap in brand identity across unrelated industries, which can still lead to confusion in consumers’ minds.

Legal Proceedings and Outlook
IndiGo’s legal team is seeking relief from the Intellectual Property Division of the Delhi High Court, requesting the court to prohibit Mahindra from using “6E” in its branding. The upcoming hearing on December 9 will determine whether the court deems the use of “6E” by Mahindra as an infringement of IndiGo’s trademark rights.

This case underscores the complexities of trademark disputes, particularly when brands from different industries claim ownership of a shared identifier.

Author: Sania Khan