Beiqi Foton VP Huang Huaqiong resigns

Gasgoo.com (Shanghai January 10) - Beiqi Foton Vice President and Brand Director Huang Huaqiong has resigned, the Beijing Times reported today. It is still unclear why Mr. Huang, who came to Foton last May, has left, though some speculate it has to do with Foton's failure to gain approval to produce its own sedans.

Although the core of Foton's business is commercial vehicle sales, the manufacturer has always desired to enter the passenger vehicle market. "We don't want to pass up the large market for [household use] sedans, [and] without producing sedans [we] won't be able to enter the mainstream," an official from Foton previously commented. According to Foton's development plan, the manufacturer would have its first sedan ready between 2013 and 2014. 

Foton's failure to gain approval for its sedan production program was rumored to be due to disagreement with parent company BAIC, which has already gained access to Saab automobile technology. Additionally, new legislation aimed at prospective passenger vehicle manufacturers, effective as of this month, has further increased entry barriers to the passenger vehicle market, making things even more difficult for Foton.

Before joining Foton, Mr. Huang (pictured) worked at SAIC as its first director of overseas operations. He has also worked at Dongfeng Peugeot and Shanghai GM as deputy market director and head of public relations, respectively.