Hyundai Mobis Successfully Develops Foldable Steering Wheel That Folds and Unfolds

Movement possible up to 25cm forward and backward... Allows securing a wide space

[Asia Economy Reporter Yu Je-hoon] Hyundai Mobis announced on the 11th that it has succeeded in developing the 'Foldable Steering System' technology, which allows the driver's steering wheel to be folded and stored out of sight as needed. This is a new technology with no mass production cases worldwide yet, and Hyundai Mobis succeeded in developing the technology in just over two years and is currently filing patents domestically and internationally.

The most notable feature of Hyundai Mobis's Foldable Steering System is that it can move forward and backward up to 25 cm. When the steering wheel is folded in autonomous driving mode, it enables more comfortable rest by securing a wider space, and by rotating the driver's seat 180 degrees, it can create a conference room-like environment where passengers in the back seats can freely converse. The company explained that this innovative driver's seat, which could only be seen in future concept cars at motor shows, is becoming a reality.

Hyundai Mobis has secured system durability and reliability through the application of various new technologies, and also linked the previously developed electronic steering device (SBW·Steer by Wire) to this system. The electronic steering device is an advanced system that converts the steering force generated at the steering wheel into electronic signals to control the wheels.

Accordingly, it can automatically increase or decrease steering responsiveness depending on driving situations such as parking lots or highways to provide stability, and offer steering feel that maximizes the driver's driving sensation on circuits or winding roads. Additionally, by removing mechanical connection devices, it has the advantage of filtering out unpleasant vibrations that could be transmitted to the steering wheel when passing over road bumps or speed bumps.

Hyundai Mobis secured world-class performance and quality through rigorous testing to provide optimal responsiveness and steering performance in any driving situation. In particular, a dual safety system was applied. Core electronic components of the system, such as sensors and ECUs, were designed redundantly to allow independent control, so that normal steering conditions can be maintained even in emergency situations where one device malfunctions.

Currently, global automakers are proposing concepts to transform cars from mere means of transportation into 'another living space.' Hyundai Mobis plans to actively respond to the future autonomous mobility market, such as Purpose Built Vehicles (PBV), through various future technologies including the Foldable Steering System, and to foster these as key export items by proactively offering technologies to global automakers.

Choi Jang-don, Executive Vice President and Head of Chassis/Safety BU at Hyundai Mobis, said, "Hyundai Mobis is developing component technologies to be applied to future cars in a completely new way, beyond merely reinterpreting existing ones," adding, "We will continue to develop future-oriented innovative technologies based on our existing core technology know-how."