Prototype developed to protect valuable cars from rodents

Dr. Toby Bateson, inventor of the worlds smallest vacuum cleaner and ZenPlugs Molded Ear Plug Kit, is hitting the market with another idea — this time for the pest control market.

The emergency doctor created the RatMat, the “world’s first humane electrified rodent repellent flooring,” according to Insider Media Limited. The product aims to prevent pests from causing expensive damage to vehicles and motorcycles.

Bateson has been testing the product for two years. He is funding the product through Kickstarter, a crowdfunding program, and his goal is to reach about $72,500 to fully develop it.

The RatMat device is designed using similar principles to an electric fence and is made of interlocking tiles that have a conductive steel surface. The tiles are laid on the ground underneath a vehicle to prevent rodents from destroying seat belts, brake pipes and other car parts.

“I have spent six years researching and developing the RatMat to provide classic and valuable car owners with a cost-effective and long-term solution to costly and inconvenient damage caused by rats and mice,” Bateson said.