IndiGo vs. Mahindra: Trademark Battle Over ‘6e’ Intensifies

India’s largest airline, IndiGo, has taken legal action against Mahindra Electric Automobile Limited (MEAL), alleging trademark infringement over the name of Mahindra’s latest electric vehicle, the BE 6e. The dispute, first reported by Bar and Bench, is now being heard in the Delhi High Court, with IndiGo asserting its rights to the “6E” trademark, which it has extensively used as its aviation call sign and branding for nearly two decades.

The Crux of the Dispute

IndiGo claims exclusive rights to the “6E” trademark, which it uses across multiple categories, including airline services, advertising, and electronic displays. The airline alleges that Mahindra’s use of the “6e” in its electric SUV’s name could dilute its trademark and cause confusion among consumers.

​Mahindra, however, contends that there is no overlap between its BE 6e SUV and IndiGo’s services. The automaker asserts that it registered the BE 6e name under Class 12, which pertains specifically to motor vehicles, while IndiGo’s trademarks are registered under categories related to aviation and related services.

In its branding, Mahindra says “6e” is part of a broader name, “BE 6e,” which aligns with the company’s electric vehicle (EV) lineup under the slogan “Be Sexy.” The automaker also pointed out the stark differences in the industries the two companies operate in, arguing that confusion among consumers is unlikely.

Statements from Both Parties

In response to the lawsuit, Mahindra issued a statement emphasizing its commitment to resolving the matter amicably:

“We 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. We are engaged in discussions with [IndiGo] to find an amicable solution,” the company stated.

IndiGo, however, remains steadfast in protecting its intellectual property. In its own statement, the airline highlighted the significance of the “6E” mark to its identity:
“The ‘6E’ mark, whether standalone or in its variants, is an integral part of IndiGo’s identity for the past 18 years. Any unauthorized use of the ‘6E’ mark constitutes an infringement of IndiGo’s rights, reputation, and goodwill.”

IndiGo also affirmed its intent to take “all necessary and appropriate steps” to safeguard its trademark, signaling a potentially prolonged legal battle.

Potential Implications for Mahindra’s BE 6e

The BE 6e, which debuted globally in late November 2024, represents Mahindra’s ambitions in the EV market. Built on the company’s INGLO EV platform, the coupe-SUV offers two battery configurations (59 kWh and 79 kWh) and an attractive starting price of ₹18.90 lakh (ex-showroom).

However, the ongoing lawsuit could disrupt Mahindra’s plans, as unresolved trademark disputes often lead to delays in product launches or force rebranding efforts. For now, the automaker appears optimistic about resolving the matter without significant impact on the commercial rollout of the BE 6e.

Legal and Market Implications

This case underscores the growing importance of trademark protection in an increasingly interconnected world. While classification systems aim to prevent such disputes, the overlap of brand names across industries raises questions about how intellectual property laws adapt to evolving markets.

With the Delhi High Court set to hear the case, the outcome could establish new precedents for cross-industry trademark conflicts in India. Meanwhile, all eyes are on whether IndiGo and Mahindra can reach an agreement or if this legal battle will take a longer flight.

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