theminoritypress.comTesla, the renowned electric car manufacturer headed by Elon Musk, has filed a lawsuit against an Indian battery maker, Tesla Power India Pvt Ltd, for trademark infringement. The legal action stems from the Indian company’s alleged unauthorized use of the brand name “Tesla Power” to promote its products, a move Tesla claims violates its trademark rights.
The lawsuit, filed in the Delhi High Court, asserts that despite a cease-and-desist notice sent by Tesla to the Indian company in April 2022, they continued to utilize the “Tesla Power” brand for advertising purposes. Tesla contends that this ongoing use prompted the decision to pursue legal recourse.
During the court proceedings, Tesla Power India Pvt Ltd argued that its core business revolves around manufacturing lead acid batteries and reiterated that it has no plans to enter the electric vehicle market, which is Tesla’s primary domain.
The Delhi High Court granted the Indian firm three weeks to submit written responses following the submission of supporting documents for its defense. The case is scheduled for further hearings on May 22, marking the next step in the legal proceedings.
In response to the lawsuit, a representative from Tesla Power stated, “We have never claimed to be related to Elon Musk’s Tesla,” emphasizing their position regarding any perceived association with Tesla.
This legal action comes in the wake of Elon Musk’s cancelled visit to India on April 21, where he was slated to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Musk’s subsequent surprise visit to China, shortly after cancelling his India trip, sparked speculation among Indian commentators, some of whom interpreted it as a snub.
Tesla asserts that its discovery of the Indian company’s use of its brand name in 2022, coupled with unsuccessful attempts to halt such usage, compelled the decision to pursue legal action against Tesla Power India Pvt Ltd.
As the case unfolds, Tesla remains committed to protecting its brand identity and trademarks, reinforcing its stance against unauthorized use of its intellectual property.
