About
Dr Davide Tavernini is a Senior Lecturer in Advanced Vehicle Engineering at the University of Surrey, affiliated with the Centre for Aerodynamics, Aerospace and Automotive Engineering. He holds a PhD from the University of Padova, Italy, and has conducted research at Cranfield University. His role includes Deputy Head of the Centre for Automotive Engineering. Davide focuses on enhancing vehicle safety, performance, and energy efficiency through model-based and AI-driven control strategies, particularly in multi-actuated systems like torque-vectoring and active suspension configurations. He has led or co-investigated multiple European projects including Horizon Europe’s HighScape (PI), EM-TECH (co-I), and Horizon 2020 initiatives like Multi-Moby (PI), OWHEEL (PI), and CLOVER (co-I). His teaching responsibilities span automotive engineering modules such as ENG2119 Powertrain Design, ENG3170 Modern Vehicle System Design (Module Leader), and ENGM267 Vehicle Structures and Analysis (Module Leader). Davide’s research leverages advanced control methodologies like nonlinear model predictive control (NMPC) and explicit MPC solutions, with experimental validations on electric vehicle prototypes and hardware-in-loop systems. He collaborates on projects addressing energy-efficient motor design, connected vehicle safety systems, and optimal control allocation for longitudinal/lateral dynamics. His work integrates disciplines from mechanical engineering, control systems, robotics, and AI to advance sustainable and high-performance automotive technologies.
Education: PhD in Engineering from University of Padova, Motorcycle Dynamics Research Group member. Subsequent research roles at Cranfield University (active chassis control) and University of Surrey (2016-present).
Research Projects
- HORIZON EUROPE: HighScape (PI), EM-TECH (co-I)
- HORIZON 2020: Multi-Moby (PI), OWHEEL (PI), CLOVER (co-I), TELL (co-I)
- TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT: Explicit NMPC for ABS, trailer control via torque vectoring, energy-efficient motor design
Teaching & Student Supervision
- Module Leader for ENG3170 (3rd year) and ENGM267 (4th year)
- Supervisor of BEng/MEng final year projects and PhD candidates
