Tata Motors has decided to rename its to be launched hatchback Zica, following its resemblance to the Zika virus that is spreading fast and emerging as a global health threat. However, the company did not disclose the new name for the hatchback.
The company said it empathises with the hardships being caused by the recent Zika outbreak across many countries. Tata Motors, as a socially responsible company, has decided to re-brand the car, the company said in a statement.
The new name will be announced after a few weeks after addressing all necessary and regulatory aspects, it said, adding, the launch will take place thereafter.
Although spelt differently, Zica, which was derived as an acronym for ‘Zippy Car’, sounds much the same.
The new car will be showcased publicly at the Auto Expo 2016 in New Delhi (February 3–9).
The World Health Organisation (WHO), which has put Zika in the same category of concern as Ebola, had stated that the virus is spreading at an “explosive rate”. The virus is already present in more than 20 countries and is estimated that up to 4 million people across the Americas would be infected with the virus in the next year.