Autoliv Reports 5.9% Q3 Growth and Unveils Foldable Steering Wheel for Robocar

ALVALV

Autoliv and Tensor co-developed the world’s first foldable steering wheel for Tensor’s Robocar, slated for volume production in H2 2026, integrating manual and Level 4 autonomous modes with adaptive airbag systems. In Q3 2025, Autoliv posted 5.9% revenue growth and improved margins but faces U.S. and China vehicle sales headwinds.

1. Autoliv and Tensor Launch Foldable Steering Wheel for Robocar

Autoliv, the global leader in automotive safety systems, and Tensor have co-developed the world’s first foldable steering wheel for the Tensor Robocar, set for volume production in H2 2026. The dual-mode device provides conventional manual control and retracts fully in Level 4 autonomous driving to free up cabin space. Integrated with Tensor’s autonomous driving system, it automatically stows when the vehicle operates without human input, transforming the driver’s area into a multifunctional lounge. Safety is maintained through adaptive airbag deployment: a panel-mounted passenger airbag activates when the wheel is retracted, while the conventional steering-wheel airbag deploys in manual mode. The solution will debut at CES in Las Vegas from January 6–9, 2026, and targets U.S., EU and Middle East markets, positioning Autoliv at the forefront of user-centric safety design as automated mobility evolves.

2. Q3 2025 Revenue Growth and Risk Assessment

In Q3 2025, Autoliv reported 5.9% year-over-year revenue growth driven by recovering supply chains and strong demand for advanced driver-assistance systems. Operating margin expanded by 120 basis points, reflecting higher production efficiency at its 13 technical centers and disciplined cost management across its 25 countries of operation. Net order intake rose 4.3%, led by new contracts for seatbelt pretensioners and advanced steering systems. However, slowing vehicle production forecasts in the U.S. and China present moderating headwinds; U.S. light-vehicle assemblies are projected down 2% in 2026, while Chinese sales growth is expected to decelerate below 3%. Investors should monitor global vehicle assembly rates and raw-material cost inflation trends, but strong cash flow generation—Autoliv delivered free cash flow conversion of 85% in the first nine months—and a $10.4 billion revenue base in 2024 support a constructive buy recommendation.

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