Mahindra renames BE 6e SUV after IndiGo’s 6E trademark row, plans to contest in court

Mahindra & Mahindra has announced that its upcoming electric SUV, originally named BE 6e, will be temporarily renamed to BE 6. The decision follows a trademark dispute initiated by IndiGo Airlines, owned by InterGlobe Aviation Ltd. The automaker, however, intends to challenge the claim in court.

IndiGo objected to Mahindra’s use of the “BE 6e” name, citing potential confusion with its “6E” trademark, a core element of its branding. The airline’s “6E” identifier is used across several categories, including airline services and associated advertising.

It also underpins customer services such as seat selection, priority boarding, and in-flight purchases. The trademark is registered under multiple classifications, such as Class 9 for electronic displays, Class 35 for advertising, and Class 39 for transport services.

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Mahindra’s BE 6e trademark, on the other hand, falls under Class 12, which pertains to motor vehicles and related equipment. The automaker emphasised that its trademark includes the “BE” prefix, which reflects its “born electric” platform and differentiates it from IndiGo’s standalone “6E.”

In a statement issued on 7 December, Mahindra argued that the lawsuit sets a “dangerous precedent” by allowing monopolisation of two-character alphanumeric marks, which are widely used in various industries.

The automaker also highlighted perceived inconsistencies in IndiGo’s stance by referencing a past trademark conflict. In 2005, Tata Motors objected to InterGlobe Aviation’s use of the “Indigo” name, which Tata had used for its sedan models. Despite this, IndiGo Airlines has continued using the name.

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Positioned to rival upcoming models like the Tata Curvv EV and Hyundai Creta EV, the BE 6 offers two battery options: 59kWh and 79kWh, delivering a driving range of 556km and 682km (MIDC), respectively.

For now, the newly unveiled SUV will be sold as the BE 6. Mahindra revealed the BE 6e at the end of November 2023 as part of its “born electric” lineup. Deliveries are set to begin in late February or early March 2025, with the full pricing expected in January.

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