Autoliv, Inc. and, the global leader in automotive safety systems, has teamed up with Tensor, a pioneer in personal autonomous vehicles, to create the world’s first foldable steering wheel for the Tensor Robocar. This innovative steering wheel offers dual functionality: it can be used for traditional manual driving or retracted during autonomous operation, signaling a major step forward in adaptive safety and flexible vehicle design. The Tensor Robocar is scheduled for volume production in the second half of 2026.
As the automotive industry moves toward higher levels of automation, conventional steering wheels are increasingly becoming obstacles in the cabin, restricting passenger space and comfort. To address this challenge, Autoliv and Tensor co-developed a foldable steering wheel that adapts to interior layouts and enhances the user experience. By retracting the wheel in autonomous mode, passengers gain more personal space, while designers can explore flexible cabin configurations.
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Seamlessly integrated with the Tensor Robocar’s Level 4 autonomous driving system where the car can manage all driving tasks within specific conditions the steering wheel fully retracts, transforming the driver’s area into a multifunctional space. This adaptation not only increases comfort but also reimagines the vehicle cabin for enhanced versatility.
Safety remains a top priority. The airbag system intelligently adjusts according to the selected driving mode. When the steering wheel retracts during autonomous operation, a passenger airbag integrated into the instrument panel activates. Conversely, during manual driving, the airbag within the steering wheel provides protection. Both setups deliver equally high levels of safety for occupants.
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“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.
Jay Xiao, CEO of Tensor, added, “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. Foldable steering wheels previously existed only in concept cars now we are bringing this innovation to volume-production vehicles for everyday use.”
This partnership represents a pivotal milestone in autonomous vehicle development. It demonstrates a shift toward intelligent, user-focused cabin design, where safety extends beyond crash performance to enhance overall passenger experience. By introducing a physically adaptive steering solution, Autoliv and Tensor are setting a new benchmark in automotive safety and design. The Tensor Robocar will be available in the US, EU, and Middle East markets.
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