Volvo EX60 Features Dual-Redundant Electronic Door Handles—Manual Access Even During Power Failure

Volvo's new all-electric SUV, the EX60, features shark-fin-shaped electronic door handles. Addressing public concerns about the safety of electronic door handles, CTO Anders Börjesson emphasized that the key lies in redundant system design. Inside the vehicle, a light pull on the door handle triggers an electronic release, while a firm pull activates a mechanical unlock. Outside, the doors automatically unlock after a collision; even if the 12V battery fails completely, pulling the external handle still allows the door to open. The EX60 is equipped with two independent DC-DC converters (located beneath the rear seats), each powering the emergency systems separately. As long as one converter remains functional, it ensures continued 12V power supply. Volvo states that both units would only be disabled simultaneously in an extremely severe crash—and even then, their location is highly protected to guarantee reliable rescue and egress.