Billionaire Profile
Yu Kai
Global Rank
#2162

Image: Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Yu Kai

CEO, Horizon Robotics
CN
Real-Time Net Worth
$1.8B
As of December 2025
Age
48
Source
Autonomous driving
Industry
technology
Citizenship
CN

Biography

Yu Kai, the visionary founder and CEO of Horizon Robotics, a leading Chinese technology company, has established himself as a prominent figure in the autonomous driving industry. With a current net worth of $1.8 billion, Yu's wealth stems from his pioneering work in developing AI chips for self-driving cars and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). His career includes a significant role in Baidu's autonomous driving project before launching Horizon Robotics in 2015. Horizon Robotics went public on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange in October 2024, marking a significant milestone and solidifying Yu's position as a leading innovator in China's tech landscape.

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life and Education

Information on Yu Kai's early life and education is limited in the search results. However, it is known that Yu Kai is an AI scientist.

Rise to Success

Yu Kai's journey to success began with his early involvement in autonomous driving technology. Before founding Horizon Robotics, Yu led Baidu's self-driving car division. Recognizing the potential of AI in the automotive industry, Yu co-founded Horizon Robotics in 2015 with other former Baidu employees. The company focused on developing AI chips and solutions for autonomous driving and ADAS.

Horizon Robotics quickly gained traction, attracting investments from notable firms such as Intel, Hillhouse Investment, and Volkswagen. The company's innovative approach and technological advancements propelled it to the forefront of the industry.

Key Business Strategies

Horizon Robotics's success is attributed to its strategic focus on several key areas:

  • Technological Innovation: Developing high-performance, energy-efficient AI chips, and solutions optimized for automotive applications.
  • Strategic Partnerships: Collaborating with major automotive manufacturers and Tier 1 suppliers to integrate its technology into vehicles.
  • Market Expansion: Targeting the rapidly growing Chinese market and expanding internationally.
  • Product Diversification: Offering a range of products from entry-level ADAS to high-end autonomous driving solutions.

Philanthropy

The search results did not reveal any specific information regarding Yu Kai's philanthropic activities.

Career Milestones

2015

Founded Horizon Robotics

Co-founded Horizon Robotics, a company specializing in AI chips for autonomous driving.

2015

Baidu's Autonomous Driving Project

Led Baidu's autonomous driving project.

2024

IPO on Hong Kong Stock Exchange

Horizon Robotics went public on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, raising nearly $700 million.