Zika Virus Prompts Automaker Tata to Rename Its New Car

— -- The Zika virus has prompted Indian automaker Tata Motors to rename its soon-to-be-released hatchback vehicle, which had been given the untimely name of "Zica," short for "Zippy Car."

"Empathizing with the hardships being caused by the recent 'Zika' virus outbreak across many countries, Tata Motors, as a socially responsible company, has decided to re-brand the car," the company said in a statement posted on its website.

The car made its debut today at the Auto Expo 2016 in New Delhi, India, where it will carry the Zica name for the duration of the event, which ends on Feb. 9. According to the automaker, the new name for the vehicle would be announced in a few weeks after the company was able to address "all necessary consumer/branding and regulatory aspects."

This week the World Health Organization declared the Zika virus a global health emergency. Tata is one of the largest conglomerates in India and is also the owner of the Jaguar and Land Rover brands.