BMW Brilliance President & CEO Dr. Wieland Receives the 2019 China Friendship Award

(Beijing) On the occasion of the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China, the 2019 China Friendship Award ceremony was held at the Great Hall of the People. Dr. Johann Wieland, the President and CEO of BMW Brilliance Automotive Ltd, received this award for his long-term commitment and contribution to Sino-German cooperation, the revitalization of northeastern industrial bases, the promotion of intelligent manufacturing and high-quality development in China’s auto industry.

The China Friendship Award can be traced back to the founding of the People’s Republic of China in the last century. It is the highest award for foreign experts who have made contributions to social and economic progress in China. The government shows a high recognition of Dr. Wieland and BMW Brilliance by presenting him the award in this special year.

Dr. Wieland shares a long history with China. Back in 2001, Dr. Wieland visited China as BMW Group’s VP International Corporate and Direct Sales. While working for BMW Group, Dr. Wieland participated in planning and implementing BMW Group’s multiple key programs in China. Especially through taking part in the planning of BMW Brilliance’s new engine plant project, Dr. Wieland introduced world-leading engine technologies to Shenyang, thus laying a solid foundation for the localization of the joint venture. In addition, Dr. Wieland paid close attention to the growth of local suppliers to ensure their product and manufacturing quality. After becoming the President and CEO of BMW Brilliance in 2016, with the clear vision “In China, For China,” Dr. Wieland reinforced the sustainable development strategy for the joint venture, introduced world-leading manufacturing technologies to China, and accelerated the implementation of Industry 4.0. Meanwhile, BMW Brilliance has grown and improved with its partners to jointly achieve high-quality development in China, which was especially highlighted by its strong support to its Chinese suppliers to go global and enhance their competences in the international market.

“I appreciate this prestigious award from the Chinese government. It belongs to every employee at BMW Brilliance, and it reflects the government’s recognition of BMW Brilliance’s efforts to promote the development of Chinese auto industry and the northeastern industrial bases in China. The honor will not exist without the consistent support from BMW Group and our partners.” Dr. Wieland said, “Ever since the founding of the People’s Republic of China, China’s economy has continued to grow, and the environment for joint ventures has improved significantly with the great support of the Chinese government, which has been vital to BMW Brilliance’s achievements. We are very confident in our future development in China.”