Mahindra has announced that its newly launched electric SUV, the BE 6e, will be rebranded simply as ‘BE’ as it continues to battle a trademark infringement case with IndiGo Airlines. The dispute revolves around the use of ‘6E’ in the name of Mahindra’s electric vehicle, which IndiGo claims infringes on its trademark.
Mahindra has clarified that the ‘BE’ nameplate is already registered under Class 12, referring to the company’s ‘Born Electric’ platform that powers the BE 6e. The automaker argues that the name ‘BE 6e’ is distinct from IndiGo’s ‘6E’ call sign, and there is no risk of confusion, as they operate in entirely different sectors.
In response to IndiGo’s lawsuit, Mahindra stated that it plans to continue contesting the case in court, asserting that the airline’s claim is baseless. The company also emphasized that allowing IndiGo’s objection to stand could set a dangerous precedent for monopolizing two-character alphanumeric marks.
Mahindra further pointed out that, in the past, Tata Motors had raised objections to IndiGo using the ‘IndiGo’ name due to its own ‘Tata Indigo’ car brand. Despite this, IndiGo continued using the name in the aviation industry, which Mahindra sees as inconsistent with its current objection to ‘BE 6e’. The company remains committed to defending its brand name and trademark rights.
Mahindra BE 6e: What is it?
The BE 6e or BE is one of two Mahindra’s first all-electric SUVs, which is based on the new INGLO platform. It is available in two battery options — 59 kWh and 79 kWh. The former produces 228 bhp and the latter 281 bhp with both having a torque output of 380 Nm. The BE starts from Rs 18.90 lakh, and the full prices will be revealed in January 2025. The new EV SUV deliveries will commence at the end of February or early March 2025.
