STOCKHOLM: Autoliv and Tensor have co-developed the world's first foldable steering wheel for the Tensor Robocar.
Autoliv is a global leader in automotive safety systems while Tensor is an innovator in personal autonomous vehicles.
With dual functionality, the foldable steering wheel can be used for conventional manual control or retracted for autonomous operation.
The Tensor Robocar is expected to be ready for volume production during the second half of 2026.
The Tensor Robocar will be offered in the United States, Europe and Middle East.
As autonomous vehicles evolve, the traditional steering wheel can become a static obstacle in the cabin, limiting both passenger comfort and space.
The folding steering wheel is designed to support changes in interior layouts for autonomous vehicles.
It allows for more personal space and flexibility for those inside the vehicle.
Integrated with Tensor Robocar's autonomous driving system, the steering wheel retracts in Level 4 mode - where the vehicle can handle all driving tasks within defined conditions without human intervention - clearing the driver's area entirely.
This transformation not only improves comfort but also reimagines the cabin as a multifunctional space.
The airbag system adapts according to the chosen driving mode to ensure optimal safety.
When in autonomous mode, and the steering wheel is retracted, a passenger airbag integrated into the instrument panel is enabled.
During manual driving, the airbag located within the steering wheel is used.
"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," said Autoliv executive vice president and chief technology officer Fabien Dumont.
"Fully self-driving technology provides a groundbreaking user experience, but manual driving in certain scenarios is still desired by many people. Our dual-mode approach with a foldable steering wheel combines the best of both worlds and gives customers the freedom to choose." said Tensor CEO Jay Xiao.
