Vale Peter Yee

It is with heavy hearts that the VASA board must announce the passing of Peter Yee, managing director of compressor manufacturer Unicla International Limited, who died peacefully in Hong Kong on 7th May 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

He had been battling an illness diagnosed just over a year ago.

Peter’s legacy in the automotive industry spans decades, marked by exceptional leadership and unwavering dedication to excellence.

Following the death of Unicla’s founder, Tetsuo Nobata, in 2005, Peter stepped forward to guide the company through a transformative period.

Working alongside Mark Mitchell and his family, Peter provided the financial acumen and strategic vision necessary to establish new manufacturing capabilities in China, ensuring Unicla’s innovative Japanese heritage continued to flourish.

Under Peter’s stewardship, Unicla became synonymous with performance and quality in HVAC compressor applications.

His leadership transformed the company into an industry icon, with achievements chronicled in the company’s history book, “Unicla and the Midnight Technician.” The brand’s legacy, which Peter helped nurture, traces back to the pioneering days of automotive air conditioning systems.

“When an iconic company is led by a remarkable individual, they become part of history together,” reflected Mark Mitchell, Unicla Director and close friend to Peter.

“Such was the life of Peter Yee – a great man, husband, father, grandfather, and icon.”

Peter is survived by his beloved wife Nancy, who will continue his legacy as Unicla’s new Managing Director, bringing her own 30 years of financial and administrative expertise to the role. He also leaves behind children and grandchildren who were the centre of his world.

Peter’s impact extended far beyond business success. He was a mentor, a visionary, and a gentleman who touched the lives of colleagues, partners, and friends across the globe. His commitment to excellence and his warm, generous spirit will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

The automotive industry has lost a true pioneer, and all who knew Peter have lost a remarkable friend. His legacy will continue to drive innovation and excellence at Unicla for generations to come.