Tue Dec 03 11:42:33 UTC 2024: ## IndiGo Takes Mahindra to Court Over ‘6E’ Trademark
**NEW DELHI** – IndiGo, India’s largest airline, has filed a lawsuit against Mahindra Electric Automobile Limited (MEAL), a subsidiary of Mahindra & Mahindra, over the use of the “6E” moniker. The legal action follows MEAL’s recent launch of its electric vehicles, the XEV 9e and BE 6e, which incorporate the disputed branding.
The case, *Interglobe Aviation vs Mahindra Electric Automobile Limited*, was presented before Justice Amit Bansal on Tuesday. While the court has yet to issue a ruling, the next hearing is scheduled for December 9th.
IndiGo, known for its “6E” callsign and branding across its services (including 6E Prime, 6E Flex, and 6E Add-ons), argues that MEAL’s use of “BE 6e” for its vehicles will cause consumer confusion and dilute IndiGo’s brand identity. The airline registered the “6E Link” trademark in 2015. MEAL, however, secured trademark registration for “BE 6e” under Class 12 (motor vehicles).
Mahindra & Mahindra responded with a statement asserting that the “BE 6e” trademark is distinct from IndiGo’s “6E” and poses no risk of consumer confusion due to the differing industries and branding. The company emphasized the visual differences in styling and stated that it is in discussions with InterGlobe Aviation Limited to reach an amicable resolution. Mahindra also confirmed its transparency in reporting the litigation to the stock exchanges. The legal battle highlights the increasing importance of brand protection in India’s rapidly growing automotive and aviation sectors.
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