Freedom is a general term and its availability or unavailability is unlikely to have any significant impact on sales
Earlier in July this year, Bajaj launched the world’s first dual-fuel CNG + petrol bike called the Freedom 125. Just when people began to realize its benefits and potential, the bike ran into litigation problems. LML has filed a trademark infringement suit in the Delhi High Court. Bajaj Auto is one of the largest car brands in the country. As of the end of trading day on NSE on October 4, 2024, their share price was Rs 11,770.
Bajaj Freedom and LML Freedom
Through technical cooperation with Piaggio, LML launched two-wheelers that were popular in the 1990s, such as the LML Select. Various other models were also launched, one of which was the Freedom 110cc motorcycle. While the bike is no longer in production, LML claims it still owns the trademark for the “Freedom” name. LML accused Bajaj Auto of using the Freedom name of its CNG bike in an unauthorized manner.
LML is part of the parent company SG Corporate Mobility Pvt Ltd. In a suit filed in the Delhi High Court, LML said its Freedom motorcycle was a huge success when sold in India. LML claimed that the Freedom name had significant goodwill and reputation. Indeed, LML was once a very popular brand. However, claims about the popularity of freestyle motorcycles need to be supported by appropriate evidence.
Bajaj Freedom name faces objections on trademark portal
On the trademark search portal run by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, the LML Freedom word mark appears as the property of SG Corporate Mobility Pvt. Ltd. The journal date mentions August 5, 2024, and the status is “Accepted and Published”. In contrast, the Bajaj Freedom wordmark status is “Opposed”. LML is likely to object to the use of the Freedom word mark and subsequently file a trademark suit against Bajaj Auto in the Delhi High Court.
In the court case, LML mentioned that it was the legal owner of the goodwill and reputation associated with the Freedom name. In addition, LML said the company is committed to protecting its trademarks and ensuring the integrity of the Freedom brand. LML has informed the court that it intends to launch a new range of scooters and motorcycles under the Freedom brand. This will be done through sister entity LML Emotion Pvt. Ltd.
In 2022, LML announced plans to enter the electric vehicle field. Some electric two-wheelers were also unveiled, such as the LML Star electric scooter and the Moonshot electric bike. However, LML is yet to launch any new electric two-wheeler.
Options for Bajaj Auto
While the name “freedom” is associated with the many benefits a bicycle offers, it’s not strictly necessary. The CNG label alone is enough to ensure the marketability of Bajaj Freedom 125. It remains to be seen how Bajaj will respond to the lawsuit filed by LML.
One approach they might take is to apply for a new name other than just “Liberty.” They appear to have done so. As per the latest data, Bajaj has submitted the name – FREEDOM along with the FLYING ‘B’ device, where B may stand for Bajaj. Alternatively, it can use any other registered trade name like Bajaj Fighter, Bajaj Technik, etc.
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