Autoliv and personal autonomous vehicle developer Tensor have unveiled what they describe as the world’s first foldable steering wheel, a technology co-developed for the Tensor Robocar as the industry moves toward higher levels of vehicle automation.

Designed to operate in both manual and autonomous driving modes, the system allows the steering wheel to be used conventionally by a human driver or retracted entirely when the vehicle is operating autonomously.

The innovation is intended to address one of the key challenges of future autonomous vehicle interiors: the steering wheel itself. As cars increasingly handle more of the driving task, traditional steering wheels can become an obstruction, limiting cabin space and reducing comfort. The foldable design allows the Robocar’s interior to transform when in autonomous mode, opening up the driver’s area and creating a more flexible, multifunctional space.

In Level 4 autonomous driving mode – where the vehicle can handle all driving tasks within defined conditions without human intervention – the steering wheel automatically retracts into the dashboard. This clears the space in front of the occupant, enabling a lounge-like environment that reflects the changing expectations of future mobility users.

Safety has also been engineered to adapt to the two operating modes. When the steering wheel is in use for manual driving, an airbag integrated into the wheel provides occupant protection. When the wheel is retracted for autonomous operation, a separate airbag housed in the instrument panel is activated instead. Autoliv says this dual-airbag configuration ensures the same high level of safety regardless of whether the vehicle is being driven by a human or the automated system.

Autoliv Executive Vice President and Chief Technology Officer Fabien Dumont said the project reflects a shift away from one-size-fits-all safety solutions. He said the collaboration with Tensor delivers a steering solution that enhances both safety and comfort by adapting to the vehicle’s mode.

Tensor chief executive Jay Xiao said that while full autonomy offers a groundbreaking user experience, many customers still want the option of manual control. He said the foldable steering wheel combines the best of both worlds and brings a concept-car technology into volume production.

The Tensor Robocar featuring the foldable steering wheel is expected to be ready for volume production in the second half of 2026. However, road laws in many parts of the world, including all states of Australia would currently prevent a vehicle from being operated totally autonomously, as this is another case of the technology being well ahead of laws. A video of how the technology works can be seen here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q7aEyeP5lJs 

 

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