Personal Robot Vehicle Launched by Silicon Valley Startup Tensor

In a groundbreaking development in the world of autonomous vehicles, Tensor and VinFast have joined forces to produce the Tensor RoboCar at VinFast's assembly plant in Vietnam. This innovative electric vehicle is set to redefine the future of transportation, offering SAE Level-4 autonomy and a host of cutting-edge features.

The Tensor RoboCar boasts a fully redundant electrical and electronic architecture, designed for safe driverless operation. This robust system ensures the vehicle can continue to function even if one of its components fails.

One of the vehicle's most distinctive features is its steering wheel that folds away and pedals that retract when not in use. This world's first design innovation underscores the RoboCar's commitment to a seamless, futuristic driving experience.

To maintain optimal performance, the vehicle's sensor-cleaning systems come equipped with dedicated wipers and nozzles. This feature ensures that the vehicle's sensors remain clear and functional, even in adverse weather conditions.

The Tensor RoboCar is equipped with over 100 sensors for Level 4 autonomous driving. This comprehensive sensor suite includes 37 cameras, five lidars, 11 radars, 22 microphones, 10 ultrasonic sensors, 16 collision detectors, eight water-level detectors, four tire-pressure sensors, a smoke detector, triple-channel 5G network connectivity, and other tech.

Powering the Tensor RoboCar's system is an onboard Nvidia processor, while the technology stack includes a dual-system AI that mirrors human cognition for decision-making. This innovative approach combines imitation learning from data collected from expert drivers and a multimodal visual language model for handling edge cases.

To address data privacy concerns, Tensor stores user data locally on the vehicle for high security. This measure ensures that personal information remains protected and secure.

In areas where Level 4 autonomy is not supported, a driver can take the wheel or switch to "assisted driving" mode. This feature provides flexibility and peace of mind for users who prefer traditional driving or encounter situations where autonomous driving is not feasible.

The Tensor RoboCar is not just a vehicle; it's a smart mobility solution designed for the future. It features vehicle self-diagnostics, automatic over-the-air software updates, autonomous parking and charging, and protective sensor covers. The robotaxi also includes brake-by-wire, steer-by-wire, and four-wheel steering.

Tensor has partnered with Tier 1 suppliers like Autoliv, ZF, Bosch, Continental, Veoneer, and others, and chipmakers like Nvidia, AMD, NXP, Texas Instruments, Qualcomm, and Samsung, to develop its RoboCar. The company is also working with Marsh, a global insurance broker and risk advisor, to offer the world's first insurance policy for RoboCars.

Pricing information for the Tensor RoboCar was not shared in the release. However, it is expected to be available in select global markets, including the U.S., Europe, and the UAE, starting in the second half of 2026.

The Tensor RoboCar is more than just a concept; it's a tangible step towards a future where autonomous vehicles are not just a dream but a reality. This personal electric robotaxi is set to revolutionize the way we travel, offering safety, convenience, and an unparalleled driving experience.