Autoliv and Tensor co-develop foldable AV steering wheel

Autoliv and Tensor have co-developed the world’s first foldable steering wheel for the Tensor Robocar.

With dual functionality, it can be used for conventional manual control or retracted for autonomous operation, according to a press release from the companies.

The Tensor Robocar is slated for volume production during the second half of this year.

“As autonomous vehicles evolve, the traditional steering wheel can become a static obstacle in the cabin, limiting both passenger comfort and space,” the release states. “The co-developed folding steering wheel is designed to support changes in interior layouts for autonomous vehicles. It allows for more personal space and flexibility for those inside the vehicle.”

The steering wheel retracts in Level 4 mode, where the vehicle can handle all driving tasks within defined conditions without human intervention, clearing the driver’s area entirely. The airbag system adapts according to the chosen driving mode to ensure optimal safety, the release says.

In autonomous mode with the steering wheel retracted, an instrument panel-integrated passenger airbag is enabled. During manual driving, the airbag located within the steering wheel is used.

“Automotive safety can no longer follow a one-size-fits-all philosophy,” said Fabien Dumont, Autoliv’s executive vice president and chief technology officer, in the release. “We asked ourselves how to make safety intelligent and adaptive, creating a system that seamlessly aligns with the driver’s needs. Our collaboration with Tensor delivers precisely that: a steering solution that enhances both safety and comfort by adapting to the vehicle’s mode.”

Jay Xiao, Tensor’s CEO, adds, “Fully self-driving technology provides a groundbreaking user experience, but manual driving in certain scenarios is still desired by many people. Our dual-mode approach with a foldable steering wheel combines the best of both worlds and gives customers the freedom to choose. Foldable steering wheels previously existed only in concept cars-now we are bringing this innovation to volume-production vehicles for everyday use.”

The Tensor Robocar will be offered in the U.S., EU, and Middle East markets.

In September, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) announced plans to launch three rulemakings to modernize the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards for vehicles equipped with automated driving systems.

Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy says the standards were written decades ago and fail to account for automated vehicles.

The following will be amended, each pertaining to standards for vehicles with automated driving systems and no manual controls:

• • FMVSS No. 102, “Transmission shift position sequence, starter interlock and transmission braking effect;”
  • FMVSS No. 103, “Windshield defrosting and defogging systems”
  • FMVSS No. 104, “Windshield wiping and washing systems;” and
  • FMVSS No. 108, “Lamps, reflective devices, and associated equipment.”

NHTSA says the changes will deliver on its Automated Vehicle Framework, which is part of Duffy’s innovation agenda.

NHTSA also recently opened an investigation into Tesla Model 3 emergency egress controls following receipt of a petition in November requesting a defect investigation into the mechanical door release on the model year 2022 vehicles. The petition alleges that the mechanical door release is hidden, unlabeled, and not intuitive to locate during an emergency.

Bloomberg printed an investigation earlier this month that found 15 people have died in crashes where Tesla doors wouldn’t open.

Images

Featured image provided by Autoliv