Design Innovation: Harry Pontefract's Upcycled Fashion and Volkswagen's Affordable Electric Vehicles

Design is pushing boundaries with upcycled materials and accessible electric vehicles. British designer Harry Pontefract is gaining attention for his innovative use of unconventional materials in fashion. He transforms items like plastic grapes and steel wool into high-fashion pieces, challenging perceptions of value and aesthetics. His work features garments made from sheepskins sourced from Welsh and English shepherds, and reconstructed denim and leather suits. Pontefract's designs are sold exclusively at Dover Street Market. Meanwhile, Volkswagen is shifting its focus to affordable electric mobility. Following the ID.3, the company plans to launch the ID.2all, an electric vehicle priced around €25,000, slated for production in Spain in 2026. VW also unveiled the ID. Every1 concept car, targeting a starting price of €20,000. This smaller model aims to democratize electric vehicle ownership, offering a range of at least 250 kilometers and a design that blends traditional Volkswagen elements with a modern, urban aesthetic.