Bosch taps quantum computing for electromobility research
Bosch plans to invest around €6.5 billion in the development of future technologies by 2025. In this context, the Stuttgart-based automotive supplier has now entered into a partnership with IBM. The aim is to replace precious metals and rare earths in CO2-neutral drives – in the electric motor as well as in the fuel cell – by means of material simulations using quantum computing within the next ten years.
According to Bosch, market research institutes see great potential in quantum computing. The Boston Consulting Group estimates the market volume in this area, including new products and services, at up to $850 billion in the next 15 to 30 years. The forecasts for the field of quantum sensor technology are also promising: McKinsey expects the market volume to grow to up to $7 billion in the coming years. “Quantum technologies are crucial for Europe’s technological sovereignty. Here it is important that we do not leave them to other regions alone, but open up industrial application fields and develop business models without delay,” says Stefan Hartung, Chairman of the Bosch Board of Management.
Bosch has been researching in this field for years and claims a leading role in the international comparison. In the field of automotive technology, Bosch is not the only company relying on the use of quantum computers to develop new, improved materials and manufacturing processes. BMW and Volkswagen are also working with quantum computers. In addition to developing innovative battery materials, this also involves untangling complex traffic flows.
- VW teams with quantum computing expert Xanadu for battery materials simulations
- Daimler taps Google’s quantum computing expertise
- Hyundai, IonQ use quantum computing for object recognition
Similar to quantum computers, quantum sensors also have immense potential. They achieve much greater precision than conventional MEMS sensors. According to estimates by Bosch developers, it will be possible in the foreseeable future to achieve a factor of 1000 greater measurement accuracy with their help. At Bosch, some 30 experts are currently working in the fields of quantum sensor technology and quantum computing. Since the beginning of this year, a Bosch start-up has been driving the commercialisation of quantum sensors.
The partnership with IBM underscores the importance of collaborations for Bosch’s digital transformation: in this way, forces required for the rapid and successful development of future fields are pooled. Bosch is also recruiting associates with the relevant IT and software expertise in order to leverage the opportunities offered by digitalisation and actively help shape the networked world. The company currently employs some 40,000 software experts in many future-oriented areas. The associates of the new Bosch start-up Decarbonize Industries, for example, are currently developing a software solution that supports industrial companies on their way to CO2 neutrality.
Related articles:
BMW taps French quantum computing firm for design, manufacturing tasks
Study: How the automotive industry will benefit from quantum computing
Ford takes quantum computing leap with NASA
IBM taps European design for first commercial quantum computer
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