The Kirobo Mini may even have a role as a baby substitute in Japan, where falling birth rates have left many women childless.

The doe-eyed robot is just four inches tall, speaks in a high-pitched baby voice, and will go on sale in Japan for £300.

Fuminori Kataoka, general manager in charge of the project, says its value is emotional, and it could be a faithful companion for the home or the car.

“Toyota has been making cars that have a lot of valuable uses,” he said. “But this time we’re just pushing emotional value.”