Elon Musk's company, Tesla, has taken legal action against an Indian battery maker called Tesla Power for using the Tesla name unlawfully. The lawsuit was filed in the Delhi High Court, seeking both damages and a permanent injunction to stop Tesla Power from using the Tesla brand name.
Details of the Dispute
Tesla Power, based in Gurgaon with a global headquarters in Delaware, USA, specializes in manufacturing lead acid batteries. Tesla claims that it noticed the Indian company using its brand name in 2022 and immediately sought to stop this use. Despite efforts, including a cease-and-desist notice in April 2022, Tesla Power India continued using the 'Tesla Power' and 'Tesla Power USA' trademarks.
Defense by Tesla Power
Tesla Power argues that its operations, which focus on battery manufacturing, do not overlap with Tesla's electric vehicle production. They claim there is no attempt to mislead consumers by using the Tesla name. A company spokesperson stated that Tesla Power was established in India well before Elon Musk's Tesla made its entry and that they have received all necessary approvals from the government.
Court Proceedings
The court has allowed the Indian company three weeks to file a written response to the lawsuit. The next hearing is scheduled for May 22, 2024. Tesla is pushing for a resolution that prevents any further use of its brand name by Tesla Power.
