Mahindra Vs IndiGo Feud Update: BE 6e Now Renamed To BE 6

The ongoing legal battle between Mahindra and IndiGo airlines, owned by InterGlobe Aviation Ltd has taken a new turn as the carmaker has renamed its BE 6e electric SUV to BE 6. Earlier this month, IndiGo filed a trademark registration infringement case against Mahindra in the Delhi High Court, alleging the carmaker using the term “6e” for its new electric SUV, the BE 6e. Shortly after, Mahindra had clarified that it was in talks with the airliner to find an amicable solution but that has not gone the way it wanted.

The latest statement from Mahindra reveals that not only has it renamed the BE 6e to BE 6, but has also decided to contest the brand rights of the “BE 6e” (now called the BE 6) in the court. The brand has also reaffirmed that it has applied for a trademark registration under class 12 (vehicles) for the “BE 6e”.

“We believe it differs fundamentally from IndiGo’s “6E,” which represents an airline, eliminating any risk of confusion. The distinct styling further emphasizes its uniqueness. Our registration application is for an entirely different industry sector and product and hence do not see any conflict,” the automaker said in a statement.

“We however do believe the claim by IndiGo is baseless and if not challenged, will set an unhealthy precedent of monopolizing alpha-numeric 2-character marks, despite our mark being distinctive and different. This will be enormously constraining for all companies across industries and sectors. We will thus continue to strongly contest this in court and reserve our right to the brand name BE 6e,” it added further.

To provide some context, IATA (International Air Transport Association) provides a unique 2-character code to airlines and IndiGo’s IATA code is “6e”. It uses this code on its airplanes, tickets, and various documentations as well as advertisements, and claims that Mahindra’s use of “6e” violated its trademark rights.

Mahindra revealed its all-new electric models the BE 6 (formally BE 6e) and XEV 9e in Chennai on November 26. Both electric SUVs have been priced at Rs 18.90 lakh (ex-showroom) and Rs 21.90 lakh (ex-showroom), respectively. Notably, the deliveries of the BE 6 and XEV 9e will start in February or March 2025.