LML owner SG Corporate takes Bajaj to court over 'Freedom' trademark

Amid the buzz surrounding Bajaj Auto’s launch of the world’s first CNG motorbike, the Bajaj Freedom, a legal challenge has emerged. SG Corporate Mobility Pvt. Ltd., the parent company of LML, has filed a lawsuit in the Delhi High Court, accusing Bajaj Auto of unauthorized use of the trademark "Freedom."

The lawsuit comes at a time when Bajaj Freedom is drawing considerable attention for its innovation in the motorbike sector, particularly as a CNG-powered vehicle. However, SG Corporate Mobility contends that Bajaj’s use of the "Freedom" name infringes on its rights to the trademark, which was originally used by LML for its popular "Freedom" motorbikes launched in 2002. The LML Freedom was well-known for its durability and performance, and the name still holds strong recognition among Indian consumers.

SG Corporate Mobility, which acquired the "LML" and "Freedom" trademarks in 2021, claims that Bajaj’s use of the name violates its intellectual property rights and dilutes the established reputation of the LML Freedom brand. While Bajaj's CNG Freedom motorbike has been generating headlines as a game-changing eco-friendly solution, this legal dispute over the "Freedom" name could become an unexpected roadblock.

Since acquiring the trademarks, SG Corporate has been working to safeguard the "Freedom" brand while preparing for a relaunch of new scooters and motorbikes under the historic label. The company is collaborating with Saera Electric Auto, which formerly produced Harley Davidson motorcycles in India, to manufacture its future line of vehicles.

In 2022, SG Corporate unveiled the LML Star electric scooter, marking its entry into the electric two-wheeler market. The company plans to extend the "Freedom" brand to a new generation of riders through its sister concern, LML Emotion Pvt. Ltd.

The lawsuit highlights a clash between Bajaj’s CNG motorbike hype and SG Corporate Mobility’s efforts to protect its long-standing trademark. The case is currently pending in the Delhi High Court, with SG Corporate Mobility being represented by the law firm Anand and Anand through advocates Pravin Anand, Jaya Negi, and Yashi Agrawal.