With an exceptionally busy turnout and students across two floors, it was at times a ‘wait your turn’ affair for the 2024 Pforzheim degree show. 

As we wrote in our quick trend report, the vast majority of final thesis projects were created in partnership with OEM sponsors. For others earlier in their studies, it was about showcasing the progression of their sketching and unique style. In addition, Opel and Mercedes-Benz had curated separate briefs for students mid-way through their studies.

Opel’s theme revolved around three terms: Detox, Modern German and Greenovation. For exterior projects, the task was to create an iconic Opel for 2040, while interior projects had to create a “Pure Experience” cockpit for 2040. Meanwhile, the Mercedes theme was ’Iconic Luxury’ and encouraged students to explore how that might look in 2030-2050.

Below is an overview of the students that CDN took the time to speak to and understand in more detail, but the list is not exhaustive. A second installment will be on the way. 

Charles Jacob – Spirit of Avantime

With thesis students given an open brief for their final projects, Jacob chose to reimagine the iconic Renault Avantime people carrier. The pillarless design and quirky, french volumes feel instantly familiar, and the scale model shows remarkable detail – including…