Airbus and BMW Group have jointly unveiled “The Quantum Mobility Quest,” a global challenge aimed at leveraging quantum computing to address longstanding challenges in the aviation and automotive industries.
With €30,000 prizes in five categories, supported by The Quantum Insider and AWS, this challenge will encourage participants worldwide to provide innovative solutions aiming to advance quantum applications in transportation by 2024.
This collaboration between the two industry giants marks a significant step towards unlocking the potential of quantum technologies for creating more efficient, sustainable, and safer solutions in transportation.
According to the Vice President of Central Research and Technology at Airbus, Isabell Gradert, this is the perfect time to shine a spotlight on quantum technology and its potential impact on our society. She said partnering with an industry leader like BMW Group enables Airbus to mature the technology as they need to bridge the gap between scientific exploration and its potential applications.
We’re seeking the best-in-class students, PhDs, academics, researchers, start-ups, companies, or professionals in the field, worldwide to join our challenge to create a massive paradigm shift in the way aircraft are built and flown,” she said.
Know about quantum machine
Quantum machines, specifically quantum computers, leverage the principles of quantum mechanics to perform computations, utilizing quantum bits (qubits) that can exist in multiple states simultaneously—a phenomenon known as superposition. This unique capability empowers quantum computers to process information in ways beyond the reach of classical computers, which use bits representing either 0 or 1.
Additionally, these machines excel in diverse tasks. They are adept at optimization, and solving complex problems in resource allocation, logistics, and financial modeling. Quantum machines also contribute to simulation, emulating quantum systems, materials, and molecules for applications in chemistry, physics, and materials science.
Quantum machine learning enhances algorithms by leveraging quantum principles for more efficient data processing. In the field of cryptography, quantum machines play a crucial role in developing and decrypting codes, employing advanced quantum algorithms. They contribute to advancing artificial intelligence, refining capabilities like pattern recognition and data analysis through the unique computational power of quantum computing.
Unleashing Quantum Power for future mobility challenges
Quantum computing stands poised to revolutionize computational capabilities, offering the potential to tackle tasks that currently strain even the most advanced conventional computers. This transformative technology holds particular promise for data-centric industries like transportation, where it could reshape industrial processes and pave the way for innovative mobility solutions.
As part of “The Quantum Mobility Quest,” participants are encouraged to address specific challenges, including optimizing aerodynamics with quantum solvers, integrating quantum machine learning into future automated mobility, implementing quantum optimization for a more sustainable supply chain, and utilizing quantum simulation for enhanced corrosion inhibition. Entrants also have the freedom to introduce their quantum technologies, potentially unlocking unexplored applications within the transportation sector.
Challenge structure and evaluation
Hosted by The Quantum Insider (TQI), the challenge spans two phases. The initial four-month period involves participants developing theoretical frameworks for their chosen problem statements. The subsequent phase sees selected finalists implementing and benchmarking their solutions. Amazon Web Services (AWS) offers candidates the opportunity to run their algorithms on its cloud-based quantum computing service.
A distinguished jury, comprising leading quantum experts alongside representatives from Airbus, BMW Group, and AWS, will meticulously evaluate proposals. The winning team for each of the five challenges will be awarded a €30,000 prize, culminating in the announcement of results by the conclusion of 2024.
Read More: IBM Expands its Quantum Computing Program to Africa, with Three Nigerian Universities to Benefit
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