Foldable Steering Wheel Powers Tensor Robocar Autonomy
Autoliv, Inc. (NYSE: ALV) (SSE: ALIVsdb), the worldwide leader in automotive safety systems, and Tensor, a leading innovator in personal autonomous vehicles, have co-developed the world’s first foldable steering wheel for the Tensor Robocar. The foldable steering wheel supports two modes. Drivers can use it for manual control or retract it for autonomous operation. This foldable steering wheel technology advances adaptive automotive safety and flexible cabin design as automated mobility develops. Tensor expects the Tensor Robocar to be ready for volume production in the second half of 2026.
The foldable steering wheel reflects the shift ttowardhigh-level automation in autonomous vehicles. As self-driving capability increases, a traditional steering wheel can become a fixed obstacle in the cabin. It can reduce passenger comfort and limit usable space. Autoliv and Tensor designed the folding steering wheel to support new interior layouts for autonomous driving. It provides occupants with more personal space and greater flexibility inside the vehicle.
The foldable steering wheel integrates with the Tensor Robocar autonomous driving system. It retracts in Level 4 mode, where the vehicle can handle all driving tasks within defined conditions without human intervention, and it clears the driver’s area entirely. This change improves comfort and turns the cabin into a multifunctional space.
The airbag system adapts to the selected driving mode to deliver optimal protection. In autonomous mode, when the steering wheel retracts, the vehicle enables a passenger airbag integrated into the instrument panel. In manual mode, the vehicle uses the airbag located within the steering wheel. Both configurations provide an equally high level of protection.
"Automotive safety can no longer follow a one-size-fits-all philosophy. We asked ourselves how to make safety intelligent and adaptive—creating a system that seamlessly aligns with the driver's needs. Our collaboration with Tensor delivers precisely that: a steering solution that enhances both safety and comfort by adapting to the vehicle's mode," said Fabien Dumont, Executive Vice President & Chief Technology Officer of Autoliv.
"Fully self-driving technology provides a groundbreaking user experience, but many people still desire manual driving in certain scenarios. Our dual-mode approach with a foldable steering wheel combines the best of both worlds and gives customers the freedom to choose," said Jay Xiao, CEO of Tensor. "Foldable steering wheels previously existed only in concept cars—now we are bringing this innovation to volume-production vehicles for everyday use."
The partnership marks a milestone in autonomous vehicle interior design. It supports a broader vision in which automotive safety leadership extends beyond crash performance to include intelligent, user-focused design. Autoliv and Tensor set a new benchmark for adaptive safety systems with a steering solution that physically adapts to driving scenarios, enhancing the overall user experience. Tensor plans to offer the Tensor Robocar in the US, the EU, and the Middle East.