Mahindra vs. Gensol: The 'ZEO' Trademark War

Driven by government incentives and technological advancements, India's Electric Vehicle ("EV") sector is witnessing a significant growth. However, growth in any sector also automatically results in competition in such sector intensifying. In the EV sector of India, one can view a similar trend that has reinforced the importance of intellectual property rights in general and trademark protection in particular.

In the recent conflict between Gensol Electric Vehicles Pvt. Ltd. and Mahindra Last Mile Mobility Ltd., the former filed a suit against Mahindra for the use of the tradename 'eZEO' in relation to its recently launched line of electric vehicle. Gensol in the suit claimed that they were the registered owners of the trademark 'eZio'and Mahindra's use of 'eZEO' could potentially lead to confusion amongst consumers of the brands. The Delhi High Court (DHC) however, dismissed Gensol's claim of trademark infringement and declined their request to injunct Mahindra