Autoliv, a global leader in automotive safety systems, and Tensor, a San Jose-based autonomous vehicle company, have unveiled a foldable steering wheel designed for Level 4 autonomous driving. The innovation, which will be showcased at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas this week, marks a significant step toward integrating adaptive control systems in next-generation vehicles.
The new system allows the steering wheel to retract into the dashboard when the vehicle operates in fully autonomous mode, creating additional cabin space and enhancing passenger comfort. When the driver resumes manual operation, the wheel deploys seamlessly, restoring standard functionality. The design also incorporates a dual-mode airbag system: a steering wheel airbag functions during manual driving, while an instrument panel airbag activates when the wheel is folded away.
Fabien Dumont, executive vice president and chief technology officer at Autoliv, emphasized that the development aims to balance safety with the flexibility required for autonomous driving. “Automotive safety can no longer follow a one-size-fits-all philosophy,” Dumont said. “Our collaboration with Tensor delivers a steering solution that enhances both safety and comfort by adapting to the vehicle’s mode.”
Tensor CEO Jay Xiao highlighted the commercial viability of the innovation, calling it a move from concept to production-ready technology. “Foldable steering wheels previously existed only in concept cars—now we are bringing this innovation to volume-production vehicles for everyday use,” Xiao said.
The foldable steering wheel will debut in Tensor’s upcoming Robocar, which is scheduled to enter volume production in the second half of 2026. Manufacturing will take place at VinFast’s Hai Phong facility in Vietnam, with initial availability planned for the United States, European Union, and Middle East markets. The collaboration underscores a broader industry shift toward adaptive interiors as steering controls evolve to meet the needs of fully autonomous vehicles.
