- Hero MotoCorp has undertaken before the Delhi High Court to cease using the AERA mark in the Matter AERA trademark dispute.
- The case continues, with further proceedings scheduled despite Hero’s withdrawal of AERA-related applications.
The Matter AERA trademark dispute has taken a significant turn after Hero MotoCorp Ltd assured the Delhi High Court that it would stop using the mark “AERA.” The dispute stems from a lawsuit filed by Matter Motor Works Pvt Ltd, an electric two-wheeler startup, alleging infringement of its registered trademark AERA. The case highlights ongoing tensions in the competitive electric mobility space, where branding and intellectual property rights are increasingly critical for differentiation and market positioning.
Background of the Matter AERA Trademark Dispute
The Matter AERA trademark dispute began when Matter Motor Works Pvt Ltd approached the Delhi High Court last year, alleging that Hero MotoCorp had infringed its registered trademark AERA and its related variants. Matter sought to restrain Hero from using the marks “AERA-Tech” and “AERA – Advanced Electronic Ride Assist,” claiming trademark infringement, passing off, and unfair trade practices.
Claims of Trademark Infringement and Passing Off
Matter argued that the use of similar marks by Hero could create confusion in the marketplace. As an electric two-wheeler startup based in Ahmedabad, Matter currently offers a single electric motorcycle under the name Aera. The company contended that Hero’s adoption of AERA-related branding could dilute its trademark and impact its brand identity in a rapidly expanding electric mobility segment.
Hero MotoCorp’s Undertaking Before the Court
During the hearing in the Matter AERA trademark dispute, counsel for Hero MotoCorp submitted that the company would adhere to an earlier assurance given to the court on January 9 and would not use the mark AERA. The Delhi High Court accepted this undertaking and disposed of the interim injunction application, recording that Hero would remain bound by its statement.
Affidavit on Use of AERA-Tech
In its affidavit, Hero stated that AERA-Tech was used as an acronym for Advanced Electric Ride Assist. According to the company, this described a proprietary technology deployed in its Glamour and Glamour X motorcycles. It clarified that AERA-Tech was not used as a standalone model name and that the motorcycles prominently carried the registered marks Glamour and Hero.
Withdrawal of Applications and Cessation of Use
As part of developments in the Matter AERA trademark dispute, Hero confirmed that it had completely ceased using AERA-Tech from January 9 this year. The company further stated that no motorcycles bearing the mark had been manufactured after that date and that it had no intention of using the mark in the future.
- Ceased use of AERA-Tech branding from January 9
- No further manufacturing of motorcycles with the disputed mark
- Commitment to withdraw six trademark applications related to AERA-Tech and “AERA – Advanced Electronic Ride Assist”
Ongoing Proceedings in the Case
While the undertaking marks a key development in the Matter AERA trademark dispute, this does not constitute a final judgment in the lawsuit. The court has listed the matter before the Joint Registrar for further proceedings on March 9. The outcome of these proceedings will determine the next phase of litigation between the parties.
The Matter AERA trademark dispute underscores the importance of robust trademark strategies in India’s evolving two-wheeler and electric vehicle market.
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