Latest IP Updates In the business world, it’s common for companies to have similar names, products, or even taglines. But sometimes, those similarities can lead straight to the courtroom. In the case of IndiGo vs Mahindra trademark case, that’s exactly what happened between two of India’s biggest brands — IndiGo and Mahindra. The airline giant IndiGo has taken Mahindra to court over the use of just two characters — “6E” — a small term that holds big value for its brand identity. IndiGo vs Mahindra trademark case perfectly shows how companies today go the extra mile to protect even the simplest elements that represent their brand image and reputation.
How Did the IndiGo vs Mahindra ‘6E’ Trademark Dispute Begin?
To understand this case better, we first need to look at how it all began. IndiGo, operated by InterGlobe Aviation Ltd, is India’s largest airline, known for its affordable fares, reliable service, and its signature “6E” brand that defines its identity. On the other hand, Mahindra Electric Automobile Ltd, part of the Mahindra Group, is a leading player in India’s automobile industry, focusing on innovation and sustainability through its Born Electric (BE) range of electric vehicles.
The trouble started when IndiGo, which has used “6E” for years as both its flight code and part of its brand — seen in services like 6E Prime and 6E Rewards — noticed that Mahindra was launching an electric car called “BE 6e.” IndiGo felt that Mahindra’s use of the same combination could cause brand confusion among consumers and dilute its identity. Seeing this as a potential infringement on its trademark, IndiGo filed a case against Mahindra in the Delhi High Court in December 2024, accusing the automaker of copying a key element of its brand. And in the lawsuit, IndiGo made several key demands, such as:
- IndiGo asked the court to stop Mahindra from using the term “6e” in any of its products or advertisements
- It requested legal recognition of its rights over the “6E” trademark which it has used for many years
- IndiGo claimed that Mahindra’s use of “6e” could confuse customers and harm its brand identity
- The airline asked for protection of its goodwill and reputation from any brand dilution
- IndiGo also wanted Mahindra to permanently refrain from using the “6e” mark in the future
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What Did the Delhi High Court Decide in the IndiGo vs Mahindra Trademark Case on ‘6E’?
If we talk about the Delhi High Court’s decision, there hasn’t been a final verdict yet in the IndiGo vs Mahindra “6E” trademark case. The court first asked both companies to try and settle the matter through mediation, but those talks didn’t work out and officially failed in October 2025. After that, the court told both sides to submit their documents and evidence to move the case forward. The matter is still ongoing, and the next hearing is scheduled for February 3, 2026, when the court will start going through the evidence and arguments from each side. For now, there are no penalties or restrictions on either cpany, and Mahindra has already renamed its car from “BE 6e” to “BE 6” while waiting for the case to be resolved.
Conclusion
The IndiGo vs Mahindra trademark case shows how even a small detail can hold huge value in the business world. As both companies wait for the court’s final verdict, this case highlights the growing importance of IP protection and intellectual property rights in India. Whether it ends in a settlement or a landmark judgment, the outcome will likely set a precedent for how far trademark ownership can extend across different industries.
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