Tata drops Zica name for new car

Tata Motors said on Tuesday that it will rename its soon-to-be launched hatchback ‘Zica’ in view of the outbreak of Zika virus that has caused hardship in many countries.

“The car’s acronym was “ZICA”, derived from “Zippy Car”.

The new car will be showcased publicly for the first time at the Auto Expo 2016, in New Delhi (Greater Noida) from February 3-9, 2016.

In a statement on Tuesday, Tata Motors said “While it carries the ‘Zica’ label for the duration of the event, the new name will be announced after a few weeks, ensuring all necessary consumer, branding and regulatory aspects are addressed, and the launch will take place thereafter.”