Aman AhmedMay 21, 2021 20:38:29 IST
Last week we gave you Jeep takes Mahindra to Australian court On new tar. Introduced in India last year, the second-generation Mahindra Thar is visually very similar in appearance to the Jeep Wrangler for the reasons explained in detail. Last time.. Earlier today, at a hearing on this issue, Mahindra made it clear to the Australian Federal Court that it would not import, sell or sell current tar, as we know it in India.
The Indian manufacturer also agreed with the terms set by Stellantis, a conglomerate currently participating in Jeep’s parent company, FCA. Tar, or Australian “Jeep Wrangler-like” 4×4. Notably here, Mahindra proposed half that notice period last week in case of a plan change, but agreed with Stellantis’ first 90-day notice.
Visually, the second generation Mahindra Thar is closely associated with the iconic Jeep Wrangler. Image: Tech2 / Amaan Ahmed
Response to query by Tech2, A statement from Stellantis said: “The FCA acknowledges and promises that Mahindra will not import, sell or sell current tar vehicles in Australia and will notify the FCA in advance before bringing future models or variants of tar to Australia. The results demonstrate our commitment to protect the iconic trade dresses and trademarks of domestic and international Jeep brands and to carry on the passion that Australian customers and the loyal Jeep community have for these iconic vehicles. “
The Jeep approached the courtroom after an Indian manufacturer was superficially preparing to introduce a new generation of tar in Australia. Tar’s test lava was previously discovered in Australia and was intended to be one of the first export markets for off-road vehicles. In fact, the Mahindra Australia website has posted a new Thar “Register Your Interest” page for several months, but it has now been removed.
The new Mahindra Thar was discovered in Australia in early 2021. Image: thenickzeek
However, it is appropriate to mention that Mahindra Thar’s report, which is banned for sale or for sale in Australia, is actually premature and inaccurate. Mahindra believes that the proceedings were misrepresented in the media and gave a false impression, as it was Mahindra who submitted the voluntary business in response to the Jeep submission.
“There is very strong demand in India for the all-new Thar2020. Therefore, there are no immediate plans to launch the current variant of tar in markets other than India. As a result, no proceedings will be filed at this stage. Meaning. If we decide to launch a new variant of tar in Australia, we will notify the FCA 90 days in advance and take all steps to protect the sale of the product and the right to sell. Answer Tech2’s question. And a Mahindra spokeswoman said this has nothing to do with future plans in India.
Does this evaporate Mahindra’s desire to globalize with Tar?
One thing is certain: the current form of Mahindra Thar is not currently available for sale in Australia. But does that mean Mahindra will stop planning to take Tar abroad? Certainly not. The company’s statement also suggests that there are currently no plans to sell Indian tar in Australia, but the stance could change significantly in the future.
If Mahindra Thar is banned directly from the Australian market, it will set a global precedent for other markets that Mahindra wanted to target as well. In countries that have a strict view of intellectual property infringement, Stellantis will follow the same route to block Tar’s path and effectively end international aspirations. But it’s not as simple as it looks superficially.
Mahindra knows how much potential second-generation tar has in overseas markets.
It’s true that Mahindra is witnessing strong demand for tar in India and is currently struggling to keep up with the fourx4 waiting period of months in most cities. In such a scenario, it was very difficult to successfully launch in overseas markets. Australia was apparently on Mahindra’s radar on the new tar, but the lack of components caused by the COVID-19 pandemic could have delayed the company’s possible export plans. Mahindra believes it is “meaningless” to participate in a court battle at this stage, as tar cannot be sold abroad anyway at this time.
What stands out in Mahindra’s statement is, “If we decide to launch a new variant of tar in Australia, we will notify the FCA 90 days in advance and take all steps to protect the sale of the product and the right to sell it. Masu “. .. This is a clear indication that this is not over yet.
Back then and now: Mahindra’s Roxer underwent two significant redesigns between 2018 and 2020 after a fierce court battle with the Jeep. Image: Tech2 / Amaan Ahmed
As you can see, Mahindra faced a difficult battle in the United States with Roxar, the first-generation tar that was reused as an “off-highway” vehicle. Despite being illegal on the road (and, as a result, not really a Jeep rival), Roxar caused a fierce court battle between the Jeep and Mahindra. In its original form, Roxar was a Jeep CJ wearing a Mahindra badge for all intents and purposes. Jeep moved the court to ban Roxer altogether, but Mahindra counterattacked with a redesign. When Roxer’s second iteration also turned out to violate the Jeep’s trade dress, Mahindra went back to the drawing board and made another more important redesign, and Roxer went on sale at the end of 2020. I did.
The reason Mahindra has worked so hard to keep Roxer alive is because Mahindra has found a solid fan base in the United States. Roxor offered authentic off-road chops at a reasonable (and readily available) price, and even brought about the formation of a Roxor-owner’s club created by 4×4 owners who pledge their abilities. Mahindra knows that the new tar has similar potential for international excellence. It’s incredible in off-road conditions, but now it’s modern and comfortable enough to be someone’s daily driver.
For Tar, redesign exercises like Roxar are much more difficult, but Mahindra is unlikely to simply give up. With properly modified design and styling elements, Mahindra was still able to pursue the ambition to sell tar abroad. Mahindra’s statement reminds us that if we choose to introduce a derivative of tar in Australia (or part of the world), we will do our best to legally retail 4×4, which retains its global appeal. And we will further expand its presence all over the world. And rest assured, Stellantis is watching carefully.
Mahindra agrees with Jeep’s request, but this is not over yet-Technology News, Firstpost
Source link Mahindra agrees with Jeep’s request, but this is not over yet-Technology News, Firstpost