It seems BMW Indonesia isn’t too happy with BYD using the “M6” name for its fully electric (EV) MPV. According to Otodriver, BMW AG is now suing BYD Indonesia over the use of the nameplate, claiming it could cause confusion among customers.
When the BYD M6 was first announced, we couldn’t help but chuckle at the thought of a spacious, family-friendly MPV sporting the same badge as a high-performance BMW coupe. Obviously, BMW didn’t quite share our amusement.
The BYD M6 was launched in Indonesia back in July 2024, so it’s a bit strange that BMW is only taking action now. Perhaps there were some behind-the-scenes discussions that didn’t pan out.
Checks with the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) show that BMW has applied for a trademark in Indonesia on the “M6” nameplate, while BYD has applied for “BYD M6” in the same market. Both applications are still pending approval from the Directorate General of Intellectual Property (DGIP) in Indonesia.
BMW is concerned that using the “M6” name on the BYD will cause confusion, as it’s already associated with a high-performance model in their line up, even though the BMW M6 was discontinued in 2019 and replaced by the BMW M8.
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BMW Group Indonesia’s Director of Communications, Jodie O’tania, told Otodriver that the company is committed to protecting its intellectual property rights and maintaining the exclusivity of its products.
“BMW Group Indonesia affirms its commitment to protecting intellectual property rights and maintaining the quality standards and exclusivity of BMW products. Regarding the use of the M6 brand by other parties in Indonesia. We will continue to follow the development of this legal process and appreciate the support and trust of BMW customers and partners in Indonesia,” Jodie said.
BYD Indonesia, however, says the lawsuit won’t affect its business in the country. “It is true that there is a lawsuit between BMW AG and BYD Indonesia in the Commercial Court of the Central Jakarta District Court. It is currently being handled by our legal division, and we are monitoring its development,” said Head of Marketing PR & Government Relations, Luther T. Panjaitan.
It remains to be seen how this will play out, but it’s likely that the BYD M6 will have to undergo a name change. This wouldn’t be the first time a car’s name has been changed due to trademark issues.
Remember the Jetour X70 Plus? It will be launched in Malaysia under a new name because Proton already owns the trademark for the X70.
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