Get to know Vahit Barış Tavakol from AVL Research and Engineering Türkiye
Vahit received his Phd degree from the Mechatronics Engineering Department at Sabanci University. After four years of working as an Assistant Professor, he joined AVL Türkiye as a Senior Battery Systems and Control Engineer to further strengthen his ties to both academia and industry. His research mainly focuses on learning and data-driven algorithms in the Control domain, which are closely related to the context of the NEXTBMS project.
What was your original motivation to become a researcher?
“From the early stages of my undergraduate studies, I developed a strong interest in exploring theoretical topics, particularly in the areas of mathematics, dynamical systems, and control theory. During my MSc and PhD programs, I was introduced to artificial intelligence and machine learning, along with their applications to classical control theory, which deepened my curiosity about intelligent systems. This growing interest ultimately guided me toward an academic career as a researcher in the field of intelligent control systems.”
What is your (main) research area today?
“My research interests focus on the applications of Fuzzy logic, reinforcement learning and Bayesian learning on the Control domain. I am greatly interested in expanding these areas to the battery management systems to develop AI/ML based estimation algorithms.”
What is the main focus of your team in NEXTBMS?
“As AVL Türkiye, we are responsible for the conceptual modular design of the Battery Pack being developed within the scope of the project. To achieve this, we are closely collaborating with other partners involved. Additionally, developing data-driven estimation and control algorithms, conducting model-in-the-loop (MIL) testing of the developed algorithms, and software development are considered the core tasks of our team.”
Could you describe your favourite moment/satisfaction when working for the project and – more in general – for your organisation?
“It is truly satisfying to see my team implement the requirements of the battery pack and successfully complete each task of the modular design concept—an achievement that is undoubtedly the result of collaboration with talented experts from various international organizations. This collaborative spirit has allowed me to greatly appreciate learning from these experts. Additionally, AVL Türkiye’s commitment to research, innovation, and support for new ideas has fostered continuous growth in my values, which has been deeply fulfilling.”
How do you expect NEXTBMS results will affect your organisation and the energy storage sector?
“As AI and ML based algorithms revolutionized most of the fields, the automotive and energy industries will also be positively impacted. The massive knowledge related to the next generation batteries will foster AVL’s leadership in innovative energy solutions, enhancing its capability to develop cutting-edge technologies for the battery management systems. This will enable AVL to stay at the forefront of the rapidly changing battery technology landscape, contributing to cleaner more efficient energy usage in the automotive and industrial applications.”
