Evolvolution is His Solution

The Evolve, an enthusiast's company owned by Donappeal as early as possible," Arp noted.
Nicholson, 35, injects Volvo philosophy to pave wayThese reasons and more made Nicholson's pride as
for a distinct set of product lines. The company isan enthusiast soar to a new level. This sense of pride
now busy working on products for Volvo's newestis carried over to his company Evolve, which sells
pride - the C30.aftermarket high-performance parts through car
The Volvo C30, a three-door, four-seat hatchbackdealerships. Evolve's Volvo products include engine
powered by I4 and I5 engines, was officially unveiledmanagement software.
at the 2006 Paris Motor Show. It is specially designedNicholson bought a Volvo, known for its safety
to cater to the demands of the young generationmilestones, six years ago. However, he found out
drivers. The edgy design of the vehicle that featuresthat there were no aftermarket performance parts
the interesting frameless glass tailgate, confidentavailable for Volvos. "This (his S60 sedan) was a neat
stance and broad shoulders that eventually served asand exciting product, but there was nothing out
Volvo's design hallmark made it a stunner.there (in the aftermarket)," Nicholson said. This gave
"The new C30 is an ambitious new car for Volvo,"him the idea to write a business plan and meet with
said Fredrik Arp, President and CEO of Volvo Carsome Volvo executives at its headquarters. Volvo
Corporation. "It is a car that aims for a group ofexecutives agreed to let him showcase his ideas by
young singles, or couples, with intense urban lifestyles.producing a car intended for the 2003 Specialty
These people prioritize excitement in design andEquipment Market Association Show.
driving characteristics, and this car should suit theirEventually, Nicholson decided to launch Evolve in
varied tastes perfectly."Monrovia, California. About three years after its
"The C30 has plenty of muscles in a sporty andlaunch, Evolve already has a full line of aftermarket
compact package. Anyone who recalls the Volvoproducts to enhance the appeal and performance of
SCC (Safety Concept Car) or the classic P1800ES willlate model products. Evolve parts are sold through
recognize the exclusive and convenient rear tailgate.the parts department of Volvo dealerships. The
The distinctive tail lamps ensure that no one will beproduct lines include reprogrammed engine
uncertain about which car they are following," addedmanagement software that turns up the power of
Steve Mattin who is Volvo Car's design director.Volvo engines, a sport exhaust system, air
The hatchback also offers a bunch of legendarymanagement components to improve airflow into the
heritage from Volvo - its groundbreaking safetyengine, special turbocharger down pipes, and even
features. The Volvo C30 is equipped with the BLIScomplete high-performance turbo charging systems.
(standing for Blind Spot Information System), whichNicholson's company also produces aerodynamic body
aids the driver in identifying another vehicle in thekits, wheels, brake components, lowering springs,
blind spot. As a true Volvo, the hatchback is alsocoil-over suspension kits, anti-sway bars and special
equipped with the Intelligent Driver Informationseats, shifters, pedals and even custom steering
System (IDIS), WHIPS - Whiplash Protection System,wheels.
and a Side Impact Protection System with sideThe company's best customers include the owners
airbags and the Inflatable Curtain, IC. The Volvo C30of the Volvo S60R. "They typically spend about
also features the patented front and rear structure$3,100 on aftermarket equipment," said Nicholson. A
to absorb and redistribute impact on the vehicle. Infull aero body kit runs around $2,300. A set of
cases of accidents, the car also features seatbeltslowering springs is $389; an exhaust system is $950;
with unique pretensioners to safeguard occupants.and a full leather interior - seats and door panels - is
"The new Volvo C30 plays an important role in our$2,990 when installed.
push towards a volume of 600,000 cars a year. WeNow, Volvo enthusiasts can explore their desires and
are broadening our model program to make itbe secured that they could turn to reality. The
possible for new, younger customers with an intense,choices are not only limited to Volvo air filters, steps,
urban lifestyle to choose a Volvo with the righttail lights because they could go beyond.