Yifan Li is the co-founder and CEO of Hesai Technology, a leading company in the autonomous driving industry. With a PhD in Robotics from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Li has driven Hesai to significant milestones and global recognition. Under his leadership, the company has amassed numerous accolades and a robust patent portfolio in advanced technologies.
Who is the CEO of Hesai Technology?
Dr. Yifan Li, the co-founder and CEO of Hesai Technology, has a distinguished background in mechanical engineering and robotics. Before founding Hesai, Li served as a principal engineer at Western Digital in Silicon Valley. His contributions to the tech industry are substantial, with over 100 patents in robotics, motion control, sensors, and advanced manufacturing.
Recognized by prestigious organizations, Li has been named in Fortune Magazine’s “40 Under 40 in China” and MIT Technology Review’s “2020 Innovators Under 35 of China.”
Work History
Yifan Li's work history includes several notable positions at leading companies in the tech industry. Here is a summary of his professional journey:
- Western Digital - Principal Engineer
- Hesai Technology - Co-founder and CEO
Education History
Yifan Li's educational journey is marked by a series of prestigious institutions and notable achievements. He began his academic career at Tsinghua University, where he earned his bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering. Following this, he pursued advanced studies at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, obtaining both a master's degree and a PhD in robotics. This solid educational foundation has been instrumental in shaping his expertise and leadership in the tech industry, particularly in the fields of robotics and autonomous driving.
When did Yifan Li join Hesai Technology?
Yifan Li co-founded Hesai Technology and has been serving as its CEO since the company's inception. With a robust educational background that includes a PhD in Robotics from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and a bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering from Tsinghua University, Li has been instrumental in driving the company's growth and innovation. Additionally, he earned an MBA in Entrepreneurship/Entrepreneurial Studies from Hupan University between 2019 and 2022. His tenure at Hesai Technology spans the entire duration of the company's existence, underscoring his pivotal role in its development and success.