IndiGo, India’s biggest airline, has filed a case against Mahindra Electric Automobile Limited. The issue is about Mahindra using the term ‘6E’ for their new electric car, called Mahindra BE 6E, which is planned to launch in February 2025. IndiGo says ‘6E’ is an important part of its identity and brand.
The case, called Interglobe Aviation vs. Mahindra Electric Automobile Ltd., was presented to Justice Amit Bansal in the Delhi High Court. However, the judge decided not to handle the case. The next hearing will take place on December 9.
Why is IndiGo concerned about ‘6E’?
IndiGo uses the code "6E" as part of its services for passengers, such as 6E Prime, 6E Flex, and 6E Add-ons. The airline also officially registered the name ‘6E Link’ in 2015 for various purposes, including airline services and advertising.
Mahindra Electric recently got approval to register ‘BE 6E’ under Class 12, which covers motor vehicles. IndiGo argues that this could confuse customers and harm its brand image.
Legal steps and arguments
Senior Advocate Sandeep Sethi, representing IndiGo, informed the court that Mahindra had begun talks with IndiGo to settle the matter. IndiGo's legal team, including lawyers Aditya Gupta, Mukul Kocchar, and Chhavi Tokas, has asked the Intellectual Property Division of the Delhi High Court for assistance. The court’s decision is expected to set an important example for how trademark disputes between industries are handled in India.