Tata Zica to be renamed due to Zika virus – UPDATE

The yet to go on sale Tata Zica hatchback will be renamed due to the mosquito borne Zika virus affecting South and Central America,

According to Tata, the company is renaming the vehicle as it empathises" with the hardships being caused by the recent Zika virus outbreak across many countries".

Earlier this week, the Zika virus was declared as a "public health emergency of international concern" by the UN's World Health Organization. The disease is carried by the Aedes mosquitos and has been linked with a spike in birth defects.

In Brazil, there are around 4000 cases of microcephaly, or an abnormal smallness of the head and brain, which are thought to be related to an infection acquired during pregnancy. Most women infected by Zika exhibit no obvious symptoms.

Tata's new city-friendly hatchback is making its public debut at this week's New Delhi motor show, where the car will still wear the Zica name. A new name for the hatch will be announced in a few weeks time, with an official launch and sales commencement follow on from that.

The Indian giant's new hatch measures 3746mm long, 1647mm wide, 1537mm tall, and rides on a 2400mm wheelbase. Buyers can choose between an 63kW/114Nm 1.2-litre three-cylinder petrol engine or a 51kW/140Nm 1.0-litre three-cylinder diesel motor.

Both engines are fitted exclusively to a five-speed manual transmission.