**Reason for Selection**
Since the launch of the magazine, "Autobots," it has garnered increasing attention for its coverage of industry figures and insightful 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 the "Person of the Year" initiative this year. Each year, one individual will be selected by the editorial team based on their impact and contributions to the automotive industry.
This year's honoree is Yan Yanfeng, General Manager of FAW Group. After serving as FAW’s general manager for nine years, he transitioned to become the Vice Governor of Jilin Province. This move marked a significant shift in the Chinese auto industry, as he was previously at the helm of the largest auto group in the country.
Yan Yanfeng once told his colleagues: “I will always remain a FAW man.†His deep connection with the company remained evident even after his promotion.
In addition, FAW-Volkswagen achieved remarkable success through a major reform. Under the leadership of Su Weiming, who was encouraged by the changes, FAW-Volkswagen initiated a marketing revolution. From January to November this year, the brand sold 339,960 units, a 38.5% increase compared to the previous year, securing the top spot in the market. Su Weiming proved his capabilities, and his performance reflected Yan Yanfeng’s vision.
FAW Toyota Motor Co., Ltd. maintained rapid growth, with sales reaching 280,000 units, surpassing the initial target of 260,000. In contrast, nearly 80% of manufacturers failed to meet their annual sales goals, making FAW’s achievement even more impressive.
On July 15, FAW celebrated its "Festival Day" with the launch of the J6 heavy truck. The company invested 10 billion yuan to establish a globally advanced heavy truck system. As Yan Yanfeng once said, “Liberation is the root of FAW,†and he ensured that the J6 project laid a solid foundation for FAW’s long-term development in the truck sector.
FAW Mazda also performed well, selling 57,000 units of the Mazda 6 despite the lack of new models. This demonstrated the strength of the brand.
In November, Yan Yanfeng led a delegation to Mexico, where FAW and the Salinas Group held a groundbreaking ceremony for an economic car production base. This marked a milestone in FAW’s internationalization strategy, which Yan had long emphasized.
In December, FAW Light Car Company and FAW Qingdao Automobile Research Institute were listed, indicating that FAW’s light vehicle strategy was now fully established.
The Hongqi brand launched independently this year, aiming to transform into a premium luxury brand. A separate sales network was planned to distinguish it from mid-range brands like Pentium.
Moreover, preliminary preparations for the overall listing of FAW were completed. During his tenure, Yan Yanfeng clarified the listing strategy and addressed many obstacles, leaving only technical issues.
In 2007, FAW achieved impressive results, producing and selling 1.48 million units, generating 180 billion yuan in sales, and earning a profit of 12.3 billion yuan. These achievements set a new record for FAW Group.
Given these accomplishments, we honor Yan Yanfeng, General Manager of FAW Group, as the "Car Man" of the year.
**Three Roles of Yan Yanfeng**
From 1999 to 2008, Yan Yanfeng transformed FAW and reshaped the competitive landscape of the Chinese auto industry. Although he moved to a new role as Vice Governor of Jilin Province, his dedication to FAW and the Chinese automotive industry remains unchanged.
At the time of his transfer, Yan Yanfeng expressed his deep affection for FAW. At an enlarged meeting of the FAW Party Committee, he shed tears, reflecting on his time at the company. He shared a story about US Defense Secretary Robert Gates, emphasizing that while he loved FAW deeply, his duty to the country came first.
His emotional farewell resonated with everyone present, as they recognized his genuine love for FAW and his significant contributions over the years.
Over nine years, Yan Yanfeng took on three critical roles, each with immense pressure and responsibility:
First, as the leader of a large state-owned enterprise, he focused on improving efficiency, profitability, and social stability.
Second, as the head of China’s largest auto company, he balanced joint ventures and ensured the independence of FAW’s operations.
Third, as the "eldest son" of the automotive industry, he worked to strengthen independent innovation and develop brands like Hongqi and Liberation to meet public expectations.
Yan Yanfeng’s efforts in these areas were commendable, and his legacy will continue to shape the future of FAW and the Chinese auto industry.
**Role One: General Manager of a Large State-Owned Enterprise**
As the general manager of a massive state-owned enterprise, Yan Yanfeng aligned with the central government’s policies on state-owned enterprises, including staff reduction, efficiency improvement, and overall listing.
When he took over in 1999, FAW faced challenges such as high costs, inefficiency, and social burdens. Through strategic reforms, he reduced staff, improved management, and enhanced competitiveness.
By 2002, FAW had restructured its subsidiaries, creating a more efficient and market-oriented system. Despite criticism, these reforms were essential for FAW’s long-term sustainability.
Under his leadership, FAW made progress toward listing, completing most of the necessary preparations.
**Role Two: Helm of the Largest Auto Group in China**
As the head of the largest auto group in China, Yan Yanfeng ensured steady growth across all business segments. After internal reforms, he expanded FAW’s presence through mergers and acquisitions, strengthening its position in the domestic market.
He partnered with Toyota and Mazda, expanding FAW’s product portfolio and enhancing its global reach. These moves helped FAW maintain its leadership in the industry.
**Role Three: Eldest Son of the Automotive Industry**
As the "eldest son" of the automotive industry, FAW carried national significance and a mission of self-reliance. Yan Yanfeng focused on developing key brands like Hongqi and Liberation, ensuring their competitiveness and relevance.
Despite challenges, he pursued innovation and laid the groundwork for FAW’s long-term success.
**Final Words from Yan Yanfeng**
As he prepared to leave his role at FAW, Yan Yanfeng reflected on his journey. He emphasized the importance of FAW becoming a globally competitive enterprise and wished for the well-being of its employees and the continued growth of the Chinese auto industry.
He expressed his deep love for FAW and the automotive sector, vowing to remain a "FAW man" forever.
**Conclusion**
Yan Yanfeng’s nine-year tenure at FAW was marked by transformation, innovation, and leadership. His contributions to the automotive industry and his unwavering commitment to FAW have left a lasting legacy. As he moves on to a new chapter, his impact will continue to inspire the future of China’s auto industry.
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