Autoliv and Tensor Unveil World’s First Retractable Steering Wheel for Self-Driving Cars

697c06b1cdec86dbbc9ddf3df9d951af Autoliv and Tensor Introduce World's First Foldable Steering Wheel for autonomous driving

STOCKHOLM, Jan. 5, 2026Autoliv, Inc. (NYSE: ALV) and (SSE: ALIVsdb), the global leader in automotive safety systems, together with Tensor, a top innovator in personal autonomous vehicles, have jointly created the world’s inaugural foldable steering wheel for the Tensor Robocar. This dual-purpose system functions for traditional manual driving or can be stowed away during autonomous operation. The innovation represents a step forward in adaptable safety and versatile design within the changing field of automated mobility. Volume production of the Tensor Robocar is anticipated to commence in the latter half of 2026.

This novel development addresses the automotive sector’s shift towards advanced automation. In self-driving vehicles, a conventional steering wheel can remain a fixed impediment within the interior, constraining passenger space and comfort. The collaboratively engineered folding steering wheel is intended to facilitate new cabin configurations for autonomous cars, granting occupants greater personal space and adaptability.

Fully integrated with the Tensor Robocar’s self-driving system, the steering wheel withdraws during Level 4 autonomous mode—where the car manages all driving functions under specific conditions without human input—completely freeing up the driver’s space. This change enhances comfort and allows the cabin to be reconceived as a versatile, multi-use area.

To maintain top safety, the airbag system adjusts based on the selected driving mode. When in autonomous mode with the wheel retracted, a passenger airbag built into the dashboard becomes active. For manual driving, the airbag housed in the steering wheel itself is deployed. Both setups deliver equivalent, high-level protection.

“The approach to vehicle safety must move beyond a universal standard. We explored how to create an intelligent, adaptive safety system that perfectly matches the driver’s requirements. Our partnership with Tensor achieves exactly that: a steering solution that boosts safety and comfort by conforming to the vehicle’s operational mode,” stated Fabien Dumont, Executive Vice President & Chief Technology Officer of Autoliv.

“While fully autonomous technology offers a revolutionary experience, many drivers still prefer to take control in some situations. Our dual-mode strategy featuring a foldable steering wheel merges these advantages, providing customers with the power to decide,” said Jay Xiao, CEO of Tensor. “Previously, folding steering wheels were confined to concept vehicles—now we are implementing this advancement in mass-produced cars for daily driving.”

This collaboration signifies a key achievement in shaping the interiors of self-driving vehicles. It embodies an expanded vision where excellence in automotive safety progresses from just crash protection to include smart, user-focused design. By launching a product that physically changes to suit the driving situation, Autoliv and Tensor are setting a new standard for integrating safety systems to complement and improve the total user experience. The Tensor Robocar will be available in the United States, European Union, and Middle East markets.

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Inquiries: 
Media:

Emelie Ericson, Tel +46 70 957 81 35, Gabriella Etemad, Tel +46 70 612 64 24

Investors & Analysts:

Anders Trapp, Tel +46 709 578 171, Henrik Kaar, Tel +46 709 578 114

Tensor PR: Nicole Marzan, , Tel +1 646 430 1486

About Autoliv

Autoliv, Inc. (NYSE: ALV; Nasdaq Stockholm: ALIV.sdb) is the world’s foremost supplier of automotive safety systems. Our group companies design, produce, and sell protective systems, including airbags, seatbelts, and steering wheels, to all major automakers globally. We also provide mobility safety solutions for commercial vehicles and electrical applications. At Autoliv, we push and reset mobility safety standards to consistently offer superior solutions. Our products prevented an estimated 37,000 fatalities and mitigated about 600,000 injuries in 2024.

We operate in 25 nations and pursue innovation, research, and development across 13 technical centers. Our 65,000 employees are committed to our vision of Saving More Lives, with quality central to all our activities. 2024 sales totaled $10.4 billion. For further details, visit .

About Tensor 

Tensor is a U.S.-based AI firm focused on developing agentic products that enhance the capabilities of individual consumers. The Tensor Robocar is the planet’s first personal Robocar and the initial AI agentic vehicle—fully self-driving, built to automotive standards, and designed for widespread private ownership. Offering native support for L0 to L4 automation and a genuine Dual Mode design, it lets you drive or be driven, featuring a foldable steering wheel and sliding display. Established in 2016 in Silicon Valley, Tensor is based in San Jose, California, with additional offices in Barcelona, Singapore, and Dubai. Discover more at www.

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