Huawei Unveils Retractable Steering Wheel for L3 Autonomous Transition

Following with its HarmonyOS folding screen computer last month, Huawei announced its disappearing steering wheel technology lately. Why Huawei use its creativity in this part of automaking? According to the prediction of some media, Huawei is preparing for the autonomous transition into the era of L3 level autonomous driving.

The L3 level autonomous driving has regulatory requirements for the mandating driver readiness for manual takeover. To enhance the cabin comfort, and space in first row, Huawei has presented this innovative patent of a retractable steering wheel system.

Mechanism and Functionality  

According to the patent introduction, the wheel automatically folds into the dashboard when the autonomous mode is activates, or the car is parked or powered off. The wheel is activated instantly when the driver wants to take over the control of the car, or the driver has got into the car ready for a ride.

Beyond Autonomy: Daily Usability  

The retractable wheel can expand the cabin functionality in daily usage, which indicated that the men behind this patent are really car users. With the wheel retracted, the driver can do a lot of things, such as using computer for work, dining during breaks, resting in a 15% increased front-row legroom.

Who don’t want this wheel to be applied on cars?

Corporate Context  

Shenzhen Yinwang Intelligent Technology, established January 16, 2024, was originally owned by Huawei Technologies. Currently, the ownership includes:  

- Huawei (80%)  

- Seres Group (equity investment)  

- Avatr Technology (equity investment)  

Why It Matters

What will next-gen smart cockpit look like? Huawei gave one of its answers by upgrading the wheel with its innovative creation as well as its keen on daily life. Furthermore, with the L3+ era approaching, the competition for a smarter cabin will arouse more creative technologies.