Autoliv's Folding Steering Wheel Is a Solution for a More Comfortable Cabin in the Era of Autonomous Cars

JAKARTA - Racing cars have long relied on quick release steering wheels to make it easier for drivers to get in and out of the cockpit. Now, a similar approach is presented with a different context presented by Autoliv.

Autoliv itself is the world's largest supplier of airbags and seat belts. Now, it is branching into steering technology, but not the one that is completely removable, but a folding steering wheel designed specifically for autonomous cars.

In normal driving conditions, the latest Autoliv steering wheel functions like a conventional steering wheel. However, when Level 4 autonomous driving mode is activated or the driving task is taken over by the system, the steering wheel will fold into the dashboard.

Launching from Caranddriver, Wednesday, January 7, Autoliv said this design makes it easier to access the cabin while increasing comfort by providing extra space. The first claim sounds reasonable, although the benefits of additional comfort can still be debated.

As a supplier of safety devices, Autoliv places safety as a top priority. In manual driving mode, the steering wheel is still equipped with a standard airbag.

When the steering wheel is folded, the safety system switches to a secondary airbag mounted behind the instrument panel, ensuring passenger protection remains optimal. This folding steering wheel technology is scheduled to debut in Tensor's upcoming autonomous vehicles.

It is planned to launch in the second half of 2026. The California-based company is targeting the marketing of fully autonomous electric vehicles in the United States, the European Union, and the Middle East.