Volvo Car South Africa has embarked on an exciting new venture, teaming up with two avant-garde South African designers, Fikile Sokhulu and Nao Serati Mofammere. Their mission: to transform sustainable upholstery from the fully electric Volvo EX30 into bespoke fashion pieces. This collaboration, under the slogan “Designed with AI, Crafted by Humans,” seamlessly blends advanced AI technology with cutting-edge design, setting a new standard in both fashion and automotive innovation.
Conscious Collective
Sokhulu and Mofammere, known for their thoughtful and material-conscious designs, were tasked with creating an Autumn/Winter 2024 ready-to-wear collection inspired by the EX30. This project emphasizes sustainability while showcasing the harmonious integration of AI technology in the creative process.
“With the new Volvo EX30, we’ve incorporated numerous renewable and recycled materials,” says Marishka Govender, Volvo Car SA’s Chief Financial Officer. “This electric vehicle, equipped with advanced driver-assistance and safety features, represents our vision for future AI technologies. We wanted to show how sustainability and AI can coexist with human-centric beauty and creativity, sparking conversations about AI’s potential.”
Sokhulu, celebrated for her work with natural fibers and cultural heritage-inspired designs, used the Volvo EX30’s Indigo interior theme—featuring recycled textiles and denim fibers—to craft an outfit for EX30 Champion Thea Booysen. “Driving the EX30 feels like taking off in an airplane,” Sokhulu explains. “I aimed to convey that sense of freshness and lightness in my design, seamlessly integrating natural symmetry and asymmetry.”
Upcycled
Mofammere, renowned for his unisex garments with a South African flair, used the EX30’s Mist interior theme, which includes responsibly sourced wool blends and recycled materials. With AI input from Midjourney, he created a striking ensemble for EX30 Champion Lasizwe Dambuza. “I embraced the AI’s suggestions, weaving the fabric like the recycled fishing nets used in the EX30’s mats. It was an opportunity to create something truly unique,” he says.
AI for a sustainable future
This collaboration not only highlights the versatility and creative potential of sustainable materials but also exemplifies the thoughtful integration of AI in design. The resulting outfits, embodying innovation and sustainability, will be showcased at Volvo dealerships across South Africa, highlighting Volvo’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of technology and fashion.
