BYD(SZ:002594) 36氪·2025-07-13 07:42Core Viewpoint - The article emphasizes the significance of the return of alumni and entrepreneurs to Hunan, particularly from Central South University, as a dual approach to talent and industry development, particularly in the lithium battery and new energy sectors [3][70]. Group 1: New Energy and Lithium Battery Industry - In 2023, China became the world's largest automobile exporter, with over 2 million new energy vehicles expected to be exported in 2024, marking a decade of leading global production and sales in this sector [4]. - Central South University is pivotal in the lithium battery industry, having trained over half of the country's talent in this field, earning it the title of "Huangpu Military Academy" of lithium batteries [6][11]. - Notable alumni from Central South University include Wang Chuanfu of BYD, Bai Houshan of Rongbai Technology, and Zhong Faping of Kolyuan Group, who have significantly impacted the lithium battery sector [7][21]. Group 2: Alumni Influence and Investment - The "Central South System" of entrepreneurs returning to Hunan has become a vital force in the province's industrial development [8]. - Approximately 70% of R&D personnel in China's lithium battery companies are reported to be from Central South University [10]. - The university's alumni have founded or control over 110 listed companies, with more than 30 related to the new energy sector, showcasing their influence in the industry [38]. Group 3: Educational Excellence and Research - Central South University, established in 2000, is recognized as the "youngest" 985 university in China, with leading programs in metallurgy and materials science [24][26]. - The university's materials science and engineering programs rank among the top globally, contributing to significant advancements in new energy materials [35][34]. - The National Energy Metal Resources and New Materials Key Laboratory, led by Central South University, is one of the largest research platforms for new energy materials in China [36]. Group 4: Economic Impact and Development - Since the launch of the "Return of Hunan Merchants" initiative, nearly 2 trillion yuan in investment has been attracted to the province, with a significant portion directed towards manufacturing [50][51]. - In 2024, Hunan's new energy vehicle production is projected to exceed 987,000 units, rising from 8th to 5th in national rankings, largely due to the contributions of alumni like Wang Chuanfu [59]. - The return of alumni and entrepreneurs is not merely geographical but represents a strategic alignment of talent and industry, driving economic growth in Hunan [70].