STOCKHOLM, Jan. 5, 2026 — Autoliv, Inc., a global leader in automotive safety systems, and Tensor, an innovator in personal autonomous vehicles, have unveiled the world’s first foldable steering wheel, a development poised to redefine the user experience in automated mobility. This groundbreaking technology, designed for Tensor’s Robocar, offers a dual functionality: seamless integration for manual driving and the ability to retract for fully autonomous operation. Production of the Tensor Robocar is slated to commence in the latter half of 2026.
The evolving automotive landscape, with its rapid transition towards higher levels of automation, presents new challenges and opportunities for vehicle interior design. As autonomous systems take over driving responsibilities, the traditional steering wheel can become an underutilized and potentially intrusive element within the cabin. Autoliv and Tensor’s co-developed foldable steering wheel addresses this by allowing for a more fluid transformation of interior space, enhancing passenger comfort and versatility.
The innovative system is engineered to integrate seamlessly with Tensor Robocar’s autonomous driving capabilities. In Level 4 autonomous mode, where the vehicle assumes all driving tasks under specific conditions, the steering wheel retracts completely, creating an unobstructed environment for occupants. This transformation effectively turns the cabin into a dynamic, multifunctional space, catering to work, relaxation, or entertainment during transit.
Safety remains paramount, with an adaptive airbag system that adjusts to the selected driving mode. When the steering wheel is retracted for autonomous driving, a passenger airbag integrated into the instrument panel deploys. During manual operation, the conventional steering wheel-mounted airbag provides protection. Both configurations are designed to deliver a robust safety performance, adhering to Autoliv’s stringent standards.
“The future of automotive safety is intelligent and adaptive,” stated Fabien Dumont, Executive Vice President & Chief Technology Officer at Autoliv. “Our objective was to develop a system that intelligently responds to the driver’s or passenger’s needs. This collaboration with Tensor has yielded a steering solution that significantly enhances both safety and comfort by adapting to the vehicle’s operational mode.”
Jay Xiao, CEO of Tensor, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the dual-mode approach. “While fully autonomous driving offers an unparalleled user experience, many still value the option of manual control in certain situations. Our foldable steering wheel bridges this gap, offering customers the freedom to choose their preferred mode of interaction. This is a significant leap from concept to a production-ready feature for everyday vehicles.”
This partnership represents a pivotal moment in the development of autonomous vehicle interiors, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in terms of integrated safety and user-centric design. By introducing a physical adaptation to the driving scenario, Autoliv and Tensor are setting a new standard for how safety systems can enhance, rather than compromise, the overall vehicle experience. The Tensor Robocar, featuring this technology, is expected to launch in the U.S., European, and Middle Eastern markets.
The foldable steering wheel will be on display at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, from January 6-9, 2026, with media days on January 4-5. Visitors can experience the technology at the Tensor booth, #5701, located in the LVCC West Hall.
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**About Autoliv**
Autoliv, Inc., is the world’s leading supplier of automotive safety systems. Through its group companies, Autoliv develops, manufactures, and markets protective systems such as airbags, seatbelts, and steering wheels to all major automotive manufacturers worldwide, along with mobility safety solutions for commercial vehicles and electrical safety solutions. Autoliv is committed to challenging and redefining the standards of mobility safety to sustainably deliver leading solutions. In 2024, Autoliv’s products are estimated to have saved approximately 37,000 lives and reduced around 600,000 injuries.
With operations in 25 countries and 13 technical centers, Autoliv drives innovation, research, and development. The company’s 65,000 employees are dedicated to its vision of “Saving More Lives,” with quality at the core of all its activities. In 2024, Autoliv reported sales of $10.4 billion. Further information is available at www.autoliv.com.
**About Tensor**
Tensor is an American AI company focused on creating agentic products that empower individual consumers. The Tensor Robocar is recognized as the world’s first personal Robocar and the first AI agentic vehicle, designed to be fully autonomous, automotive-grade, and available for private ownership at scale. It features native support for L0–L4 autonomy and a unique Dual Mode design, allowing users to choose between manual driving and autonomous operation, enhanced by its foldable steering wheel and a sliding display. Founded in 2016 in Silicon Valley, Tensor is headquartered in San Jose, California, with additional offices in Barcelona, Singapore, and Dubai. More information can be found at www.tensor.auto.
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