The Steering Wheel Collapses, Leaving You with Just Trust as the Vehicle Assumes Control | Carscoops

      The retractable steering wheel will debut in the Tensor Robocar, creating additional space in front of the driver.

      Autoliv and Tensor have introduced a cutting-edge steering wheel that folds and disappears into the dashboard when the vehicle is in fully autonomous mode. The design includes two separate driver airbags to ensure safety in both driving modes.

      After previewing it last year, Autoliv and Tensor have now revealed the world's first foldable steering wheel designed for autonomous driving, which will be featured in Tensor's Robocar. This innovative steering wheel can retract when not in use.

      As illustrated in the videos, when the Robocar shifts into Level 4 mode, the steering wheel rim automatically folds down to match the angle of the steering column and retracts into the dashboard, enhancing space and comfort for the ‘driver.’ Additionally, a center-mounted screen shifts over to keep the occupant entertained while the car takes control.

      As the car exits Level 4 mode, the process reverses: the screen returns to the center of the dashboard, and the steering wheel is re-engaged.

      While this concept appears to be futuristic, the absence of a traditional steering wheel raises important safety considerations. Given that airbags are usually integrated into steering wheels, Autoliv and Tensor have developed an alternative solution.

      They have created a new system featuring two different airbags that can identify whether the car is operating in manual or autonomous mode. During manual driving, the steering wheel airbag activates as usual.

      Conversely, in autonomous mode, an airbag located in the instrument panel is activated and will deploy in the event of a collision. The companies confirmed that "both configurations provide an equally high level of protection."

      In a statement, Tensor CEO Jay Xiao remarked, “Fully self-driving technology delivers an unprecedented user experience, but many still prefer the option of manual driving in certain situations. Our dual-mode approach, featuring a foldable steering wheel, combines the best of both worlds and offers customers the choice.”

      He further noted, “Foldable steering wheels had only appeared in concept cars – we are now introducing this innovation into mass-produced vehicles for everyday use.”

      As we’ve mentioned earlier, the Tensor Robocar is set to launch later this year and will be manufactured in Vietnam by VinFast. It is marketed as a “luxury crossover SUV” equipped with rear coach doors and SignalScreens that enable communication with other road users via CarMoji.

      While full details have yet to be released, the Robocar is expected to include a 112 kWh battery and an advanced suite of sensors, comprising 37 cameras, 5 lidars, 11 radars, 22 microphones, 10 ultrasonic sensors, 3 IMUs, GNSS, 16 collision detectors, 8 water-level detectors, 4 tire-pressure sensors, and 1 smoke detector. Notably, the vehicle is intended for personal use rather than fleet applications.