Tesla Inc., led by visionary entrepreneur Elon Musk, has taken legal action against an Indian battery manufacturer, sparking a trademark battle in the Delhi High Court.
- Tesla Inc. files lawsuit against Indian company Tesla Power India Ltd over the usage of the brand name ‘Tesla Powers.’
- Indian company accused of promoting its products under a name too similar to Tesla’s, despite a previous cease-and-desist order.
- The dispute underscores the importance of brand protection in the rapidly expanding electric vehicle (EV) market.
In a move that highlights the fierce competition in the burgeoning EV industry, Tesla Inc. has initiated legal proceedings against Indian battery manufacturer Tesla Power India Ltd. The American EV giant, known for its groundbreaking innovations and disruptive approach, is alleging trademark infringement by the Indian company.
The crux of the matter lies in the usage of the brand name ‘Tesla Powers’ by the Gurgaon-based firm. Despite receiving a cease-and-desist order in April 2022, Tesla Power continued to promote its products under a name eerily reminiscent of Tesla Inc., prompting the latter to escalate the issue to the Delhi High Court.
Timeline of the Dispute:
- 2020: Tesla Inc. begins communication with the Indian firm regarding the trademark.
- April 2022: Cease-and-desist order issued to Tesla Power, but no compliance observed.
- May 2024: Legal action initiated by Tesla Inc. in the Delhi High Court.
During the recent court proceedings, Kavinder Khurana, chairman of Tesla Power India Ltd, revealed the company’s affiliation with a partner and promoter in the United States. However, Tesla Inc.’s counsel, Chander Lall, argued that the usage of a similar brand name has led to confusion among consumers, potentially harming business interests.
The Delhi High Court, acknowledging the gravity of the situation, has issued a notice to Tesla Power India Ltd in response to Tesla Inc.’s plea. Additionally, the court has temporarily restrained the Indian company from further advertising or promoting its EV products under the contentious brand name. The next hearing on the matter is scheduled for May 22, indicating a protracted legal battle ahead.
In its defense, Tesla Power India Ltd maintains that its core focus is on lead-acid battery manufacturing, distancing itself from direct competition with Tesla Inc.’s EV offerings. However, the court’s intervention underscores the importance of safeguarding intellectual property rights in an industry characterized by rapid innovation and fierce rivalry.
Key Points:
- Tesla Inc. alleges trademark infringement by Indian battery manufacturer Tesla Power India Ltd.
- Delhi High Court issues notice to Tesla Power and restrains further promotion under the disputed brand name.
- Legal battle underscores the significance of brand protection in the competitive EV market.
- Tesla Power India Ltd emphasizes its focus on lead-acid battery manufacturing, seeking to differentiate itself from Tesla Inc.’s electric vehicles.
