Autoliv, Tensor debut foldable steering wheel for autonomous cars

Autoliv and Tensor have jointly developed the world’s first foldable steering wheel designed for a production-ready Level 4 autonomous vehicle, set to debut in the Tensor Robocar expected in volume production by the second half of 2026. This innovative steering wheel operates in two modes: it functions as a conventional steering wheel during manual driving and fully retracts during autonomous operation. The design addresses the challenge of traditional steering systems limiting interior space and comfort in autonomous vehicles, enabling a more flexible and lounge-like cabin environment when the vehicle drives itself. The foldable steering wheel integrates directly with the Tensor Robocar’s autonomous system, retracting to clear the driver’s area during Level 4 autonomous mode. Safety is maintained through adaptive airbag systems that switch between a steering wheel airbag in manual mode and a passenger airbag integrated into the instrument panel when the wheel is retracted. Autoliv emphasizes this adaptive safety approach as a shift from traditional one-size-fits-all designs to intelligent systems that respond dynamically