Volkswagen, Google cooperate on quantum computing

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German automaker Volkswagen and Google have announced Tuesday plans to cooperate in exploring possible uses in the auto industry for quantum computers.

The technology of quantum computing, which is still in its early phases, uses the quirks of quantum physics to perform calculations at far higher speeds than current computers.

Concept picture of driverless car using new quantum computing technology./Volkswagen Photo

As the key part of Volkswagen’s efforts to develop new digital features for their autos, the company plans to refine their current traffic-management systems, simulate the structure of electric-car batteries and other materials as well as artificial intelligence for autonomous driving.

Concept picture of driverless car using new quantum computing technology./Volkswagen Photo

According to Martin Hofmann, the chief information officer of Volkswagen, quantum computer technology is expected to “open new dimensions” for the company. In his opinion, this new technology has great potential to be “commercially available” for car manufacturers.

The technology of quantum computing is still in its early phases./Volkswagen Photo

Volkswagen said that specialists from the two companies will work together using Google quantum computers, jointly developing algorithms and simulations.

Google will provide more powerful devices, which have the capability of using the principles of quantum mechanics to process information in a wider variety of ways.

Source(s): AP