Tesla Files Lawsuit Against Indian Battery Company for Trademark Infringement
Tesla Power India accused of using the Tesla name for its brand
Tesla, Inc., the renowned electric vehicle manufacturer led by CEO Elon Musk, has recently lodged a lawsuit against Indian battery company Tesla Power over alleged trademark infringement. The legal action by Tesla, Inc. aimed at the Gurgaon-based Tesla Power India was initiated following the battery company’s continuous use of the Tesla name despite a cease-and-desist letter sent two years ago. The lawsuit, which was presented at the Delhi High Court, claims that Tesla Power India’s use of the brand name has led to confusion and complications for customers. Tesla, Inc., headquartered in Delaware, has a legal entity in India.
Tesla Power India, provider of ‘lead acid batteries’ and not electric vehicle batteries, argued in its defense that it has no intentions of entering the EV industry and has a different focus. The company’s mission, as per its website, revolves around enhancing the energy storage industry in India through innovation and the delivery of quality sustainable products.
Concerns over Tesla Power India’s use of the Tesla name
Tesla’s senior counsel Chander Lall expressed Tesla, Inc.’s concerns over Tesla Power India’s name usage. Lall stated that the confusion resulting from the use of the Tesla name has negatively impacted Tesla, Inc.’s Indian business operations, and Tesla, Inc. has begun receiving complaints from customers meant for Tesla Power. Tesla also highlighted the potential damage its business may suffer amidst impending layoffs, which recently prompted the company to notify thousands of impending job losses in Texas and California.
Court intervention and restrictions on Tesla Power India
In response to the ongoing dispute, the judge ruled in favor of Tesla, Inc., instructing Tesla Power India to refrain from releasing any future promotions using the Tesla name until the next hearing scheduled for May 22. The judgment implies that Tesla Power India will have until then to prepare its defense and provide written responses. The case remains ongoing and will be closely monitored.
Tesla CEO’s recent activities
The lawsuit unfolded almost two weeks after Tesla CEO Elon Musk canceled his meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and instead opted to visit China. In China, Musk engaged in discussions with Premier Li Qiang about the deployment of Tesla’s advanced driver-assistance features in the country. Premier Li expressed a desire for increased trade cooperation with the United States during their meeting.
