Autoliv and Tensor Launch World's First Foldable Steering Wheel for Autonomous Vehicles
Autoliv and Tensor have co-developed the world's first foldable steering wheel that retracts for autonomous driving and extends for manual control, set for volume production in late 2026.
- Second half of 2026
- Level 4
What Happened
Autoliv, the global leader in automotive safety, and Tensor, an innovator in personal autonomous vehicles, have introduced the world's first foldable steering wheel for the Tensor Robocar. The wheel can be used conventionally for manual driving or retracted for Level 4 autonomous operation, freeing up cabin space. The Tensor Robocar is expected to enter volume production in the second half of 2026.
The airbag system adapts based on driving mode. In autonomous mode with the steering wheel retracted, a passenger airbag in the instrument panel is enabled. During manual driving, the airbag inside the steering wheel provides protection. Both configurations offer equally high safety levels.
“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.”
“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 ve”
Why this matters
This innovation adapts safety and interior space for autonomous vehicles, allowing the steering wheel to fold away when not needed, improving comfort and enabling new interior layouts.
Terms in This Story
- Level 4 autonomy
- A level of driving automation where the vehicle can handle all driving tasks in certain conditions without human intervention, though the driver may take control manually.
- Foldable steering wheel
- A steering wheel that can retract or fold away when not needed, freeing up cabin space.
- Passenger airbag
- An airbag designed to protect front-seat passengers, typically integrated into the dashboard.
- Dual Mode design
- A vehicle design that allows both manual driving and autonomous operation, giving the driver a choice.
Summarised from the linked release; details can be imperfect — always verify against the original source.