Girls scared of driving alone are being offered some company - a blow-up male passenger. Car insurance dealer Sheilas' Wheels has produced a "Buddy on Demand" that inflates at the flick of a switch.

While not entirely convincing from a human point of view, the instant companion is intended to serve a serious purpose.
It is aimed at keeping women safe from potential "road-rage" attacks, car jacking or other intimidating behaviour by other motorists, particularly at night.

The idea is the sight of two silhouettes in the front of the car instead of a single female one behind the wheel, will make potential aggressors think twice.

"Almost half of female motorists tell us they feel vulnerable driving alone at night - many never even get behind the wheel after dark," said a Sheilas' Wheels spokeswoman.

"Many say that they would feel safer with someone next to them in the passenger seat.

"We're not saying that an inflatable man is the only answer but we do hope it will give women extra confidence and make journeys in the dark less fearful."

Source: Sky News