From the building sites of 'Room to Improve' to the streets of Dublin, Dermot Bannon brings his signature style to the Volvo EX90. Discover how design, sustainability and electric innovation come together in one extraordinary drive.

Dermot has been a Volvo brand ambassador since 2015, and his journey reflects Volvo’s own evolution. He started with the diesel XC90, transitioned to the plug-in hybrid, and now drives the fully electric EX90 – embracing every step towards a more sustainable future.

We caught up with Dermot to hear his thoughts on the Volvo EX90—Volvo’s most advanced electric SUV to date. As someone who lives and breathes design, Dermot shares what stood out to him, how the transition to electric has been, and what kind of space he would create inspired by the EX90.

First Impressions Matter

What was your first impression of the Volvo EX90?

"I loved the design, it's really striking. I find a lot of cars have loads of unnecessary lines, swoops and fussy details. The EX90 is simple but strong—everything has a purpose, which for me is good design. For example, there's no grille because it doesn't need one! So the lights become the striking elements. The crease down the side is really strong and purposeful. The proportions really work and make a 7-seat family car look sporty and tidy. And I love, love, love the colour!"

Dermot’s eye for clean, purposeful design aligns perfectly with the EX90’s Scandinavian aesthetic. Every detail, from the aerodynamic silhouette to the signature Thor’s Hammer headlights, reflects Volvo’s commitment to form meeting function.

Dermot's Favourites

What is your favourite feature in our EX90?

"There's loads—the way it drives and handles, the air suspension makes it feel like it glides along. The 360-degree cameras are amazing. But my favourite feature is the operating system. It really feels like you're travelling with a companion who intuitively helps. The voice control is brilliant—I just chat away to the car. It plans my routes, adds in stops to charge, and all the information and commands expand and minimise on the big screen as you need them and are finished."

The EX90’s tech-forward interior is designed to simplify every journey. With Google built-in, intuitive voice control, and a panoramic screen experience, it’s not just a car—it’s a co-pilot.

Transitioning from Hybrid to Electric

How did you find transitioning from your Volvo XC90 to your new all-electric EX90?

"It was actually quite easy. I was used to plugging in the car at home and I've continued doing that. The range is so good that I can get anywhere in Ireland on a charge from home, and then it's just a 15 or 20-minute charge on the way home. I would have normally stopped in a service station for the same length of time anyway. I do feel a bit smug when paying for a coffee and they ask me 'any fuel?"

Dermot’s move from the trusted XC90 to the cutting-edge EX90 shows how effortless the shift to electric can be. With up to 600km of range and rapid charging capabilities, the EX90 is built for Irish roads—and Irish lifestyles.

Dermot Designs with EX90 in Mind.

If you could design a space inspired by our EX90, what would it look like?

"Very Scandinavian! Nice warm materials, bright, minimal but not stark, inviting (like all my designs!!!!!!!)"

Just like Dermot’s architectural style, the EX90’s cabin is a masterclass in Scandinavian design—natural materials, ambient lighting, and a calm, clutter-free environment that feels like home.

A Drive that reflects the Future

Dermot Bannon’s take on the Volvo EX90 is more than just a review—it’s a reflection of how design, technology, and sustainability can come together to shape the future of driving. Whether it’s the intuitive tech, the elegant lines, or the effortless electric experience, the EX90 is a car that speaks to those who value smart design and smarter living.