Lidar and radar technology help to make EX90 "the safest Volvo ever"

Car company Volvo's electric EX90 SUV has been shortlisted for a 2025 Dezeen Award for its innovative safety features, including sensors that can detect pedestrians up to 250 metres ahead.

Volvo has already built its reputation around safety and the company's first fully electric seven-seater promises to be "the safest Volvo ever", with eight cameras, five radars, 16 ultrasonic sensors and a roof-mounted Lidar sensor.

"The standard safety in the EX90 will be beyond that of any Volvo before it, offering one of the most advanced sensor systems on the market," the company said.

EX90's Lidar sensor uses a pulsed laser to generate precise, three-dimensional information about the surroundings and detect pedestrians at distances of up to 250 metres.

The external sensors complement a driver understanding system that senses gaze patterns and steering behaviour, detecting if the driver is not paying attention to the road and providing assistance when needed.

The vehicle also features a "world-first" interior radar system that is sensitive enough to detect movement at a submillimetre scale, such as a toddler's breathing.

The technology, which covers the entire interior including the boot, is intended to prevent deaths that can occur if children or pets are left in a hot car.

Volvo described the EX90 as a "software-defined vehicle" that is future-proofed and able to perform over-the-air updates so it automatically upgrades to the latest software version.

This includes updates to the safe space technology as well as the in-car infotainment system, which is controlled using a 14.5-inch touchscreen centre display. A separate nine-inch driver display provides key information such as speed, battery and range.

The EX90's exterior is distinctly electric, with a closed grille and flush design contributing to an aerodynamic form intended to reduce drag and increase efficiency.

A minimalist cabin design informed by Volvo's Scandinavian heritage aims to create a light and spacious feel for passengers in each of the seven forward-facing seats.

The internal palette replaces conventional automotive materials with sustainable alternatives, including FSC-certified wood and recycled plastic fabrics.

EX90 has been shortlisted in the consumer product design category of this year's Dezeen Awards, alongside self-assemblable headphones for children and a zero-waste disposable camera.

Earlier this year, Volvo's chief designer Jeremy Offer told Dezeen that electric cars can provide a better experience for drivers by enhancing the technological interface and using premium materials.

The company's ES90 electric vehicle, also launched in 2025, includes some of the same features as the EX90 in a form that combines aspects of a saloon car with the raised height and practicality of an SUV.

All photos and renders courtesy of Volvo.

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