TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA vs M/S PRIUS AUTO INDUSTRIES LIMITED

The Supreme Court held that the plaintiff, an automobile manufacturer, is entitled to protection under Section 2(1)(zg) of the Trade Marks Act, 1999, as the mark 'Prius' qualifies as a well-known trademark despite not being registered in India at the time of the defendants' use. The Court emphasized that prior use and reputation can establish rights over a trademark, leading to the conclusion that the defendants' use of 'Prius' constituted infringement and passing off. The Court granted a permanent injunction against the defendants from using the plaintiff's registered and well-known trademarks, thereby upholding the plaintiff's claims.