IndiGo Airlines Takes Legal Action Against Mahindra Over Trademark Dispute on ‘6E’ Branding

Interglobe Aviation Limited, operating India’s largest airline IndiGo, has initiated legal proceedings against Mahindra Electric Automobile Limited, alleging trademark infringement over the use of "6E" in Mahindra’s upcoming electric car, the Mahindra BE 6E. The lawsuit was filed in the Delhi High Court and was initially listed for hearing before Justice Amit Bansal on December 3. However, the judge recused himself from the matter, and the case is now expected to be heard on December 9.

IndiGo has built a robust brand around its callsign "6E," which it uses not only as its operational designator but also as a key branding element. The airline offers a range of services under the "6E" umbrella, including 6E Prime, 6E Flex, and various customisable add-ons for passengers. These services enhance the customer experience by providing flexibility, priority, and convenience during air travel.

The airline obtained trademark registration for "6E Link" in 2015 under four distinct classes (9, 16, 35, and 39), covering categories such as advertising, airline transport, and printed materials. This registration allows IndiGo to use the mark for a range of activities, from illuminated advertising signs to airline services and promotional materials.

Senior Advocate Sandeep Sethi, representing IndiGo, informed the court that Mahindra Electric had reached out to the airline for discussions, hinting at a possible resolution. However, no agreement has been disclosed as of now.

Mahindra Electric Automobile Limited has been granted acceptance for the word mark "BE 6E" in trademark class 12 by the registrar of trademarks on November 25. This class broadly encompasses motor vehicles and their components, including electric cars, buses, trucks, and utility vehicles, excluding motorcycles and two-wheelers. The registration would permit Mahindra to use "6E" for branding its vehicles and associated products.

The recently unveiled Mahindra BE 6E has garnered significant attention for its futuristic design and advanced technology. Although bookings have yet to open, the vehicle will hit Indian roads in February 2025. Mahindra's decision to use "6E" as part of the branding has sparked the dispute, with IndiGo asserting that the use of an identical mark may cause confusion and dilute its brand identity.

The dispute raises questions about the scope of trademark protection when two entities from different industries use similar branding. IndiGo's trademarks are registered in contexts closely tied to airline services and advertising, while Mahindra's proposed registration covers motor vehicles. However, IndiGo may argue that the similarity of the marks and its extensive brand recognition creates a risk of confusion among consumers.

Trademark law in India often evaluates disputes based on factors such as the similarity of marks, the likelihood of consumer confusion, and the overlapping of goods or services. While Mahindra and IndiGo operate in distinct sectors, the legal challenge underscores the complexities of modern branding, where companies may expand their offerings across industries.

The Delhi High Court is expected to hear the matter on December 9. As both parties explore the possibility of negotiations, the outcome could shape the future approach to trademark disputes in India, particularly in cases where branding overlaps across diverse industries.