**Reason for Selection**
Since its publication, the magazine “Autobots†has been gaining increasing attention for its coverage of industry figures and in-depth analysis of key events. We are pleased to see that this publication continues to have a strong and growing influence. As a magazine focused on people, we have decided to introduce our "Person of the Year" initiative this year. Each year, the editorial team will select one individual who has made a significant impact on the automotive industry through their influence and contributions.
This year, we are proud to honor Yan Yanfeng, the former General Manager of FAW Group. After serving as the general manager of FAW for nine years, he was appointed as the Vice Governor of Jilin Province. This move marked a major shift in the Chinese auto industry, as it involved the leadership of the largest automotive group in the country.
Yan Yanfeng once told his colleagues: “I will always be a FAW man.†His deep connection with the company remained evident even after his transition to government service.
In addition, FAW-Volkswagen achieved remarkable success this year. The company initiated a marketing revolution, led by Singaporean executive Su Weiming, who proved his capabilities with impressive results. From January to November, FAW-Volkswagen sold 339,960 units, a 38.5% increase compared to the previous year, ranking first in the country. This success not only showcased Su Weiming’s leadership but also reflected the vision set by Yan Yanfeng.
FAW Toyota continued its rapid growth, selling 280,000 units this year—exceeding the initial target of 260,000. In contrast, nearly 80% of manufacturers failed to meet their sales goals, making FAW Toyota’s performance particularly notable.
On July 15, FAW celebrated its “Festival Day†with the launch of the J6 heavy truck. The company invested 10 billion yuan to build a globally advanced heavy truck system. As Yan Yanfeng said, “Liberation is the root of FAW,†and the completion of the J6 project laid a solid foundation for FAW's long-term development in the truck sector.
FAW Mazda managed to achieve 57,000 sales of the Mazda 6, despite the lack of new models. This achievement highlighted the brand's resilience and market appeal.
In November, Yan Yanfeng led a delegation to Mexico, where FAW and the Salinas Group held a groundbreaking ceremony for a new economic car production base. This marked a significant step in FAW’s internationalization efforts, which Yan had long emphasized.
In December, FAW Light Car Company and FAW Qingdao Automobile Research Institute were listed, signaling the completion of FAW’s light vehicle strategy.
The Hongqi brand took a bold step by operating independently this year. After years of positioning, FAW decided to elevate Hongqi to a full luxury brand, planning to establish a separate sales network to distinguish it from mid-range brands like Pentium.
Moreover, the preliminary preparations for FAW’s overall listing were completed. During his tenure, Yan Yanfeng clarified the listing strategy and removed many obstacles, leaving only technical issues to resolve.
In 2007, FAW achieved impressive results, producing and selling 1.48 million units, generating 180 billion yuan in revenue, and earning 12.3 billion yuan in profit. These numbers set a new record for the company.
Given these achievements, we have named Yan Yanfeng, the former General Manager of FAW Group, as the “Car Man†of the Year.
**The Three Roles of Yan Yanfeng**
From the General Manager of FAW to the Deputy Governor of Jilin Province, Yan Yanfeng has played three critical roles during his nine-year tenure at FAW, each with its own challenges and responsibilities.
First, as the leader of a large state-owned enterprise, he had to focus on improving efficiency, profitability, and social stability. Second, as the head of China’s largest automaker, he had to ensure steady growth while balancing joint ventures and maintaining independence. Third, as the “eldest son†of the automotive industry, he had to strengthen independent innovation and develop brands like Hongqi and Liberation to meet public expectations.
Yan Yanfeng’s emotional farewell speech at FAW, where he expressed his deep love for the company, touched everyone present. Despite the difficulties he faced, his leadership and dedication left a lasting impact on the industry.
As he moved on to a new role, his legacy at FAW remains strong. He leaves behind a company that has grown significantly, with a clear path for future development and a stronger presence in both domestic and international markets.
**A Farewell to FAW**
Yan Yanfeng’s journey with FAW began in 1999 when he took over as General Manager. Over the next nine years, he transformed the company, leading it through restructuring, expansion, and innovation. His leadership helped FAW become the largest automotive group in China and a global player.
Throughout his career, Yan Yanfeng demonstrated a deep commitment to FAW and the automotive industry. He often spoke about the importance of perseverance, innovation, and responsibility. Even as he moved on to a new position, his love for FAW remained unchanged.
As he prepared to leave, Yan Yanfeng expressed his gratitude to the employees, cadres, and leaders who supported him throughout his career. He acknowledged the hard work and dedication of everyone involved in FAW’s success.
He also shared his hopes for the future, urging the company to continue developing and becoming more competitive on the global stage. He believed that FAW had the potential to become one of the top automotive companies in the world.
In his final words, Yan Yanfeng reaffirmed his identity as a FAW man, saying, “No matter where I go, I will always be a FAW man.â€
His story is one of dedication, transformation, and passion for the automotive industry. As he moves forward, his legacy at FAW will continue to inspire future generations.
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