Google and Volkswagen announced their collaboration in the field of applied research at Web Summit 2017 in Lisbon. Specialists from both companies plan to use a Google quantum computer to tackle current problem areas, including new machine-learning processes and the orchestration of autonomous vehicles, as well as material structures and new materials for batteries for electric vehicles. “We at Volkswagen want to be among the first to use quantum computing for corporate processes as soon as this technology is commercially available,” says Martin Hofmann, CIO of the Volkswagen Group, of the new partnership.

Quantum computing is currently still in the early stages of development. However, experts expect these supercomputers to completely outpace current computer technology within just a few years. In addition to Google, other global players are also driving development forward. For instance, it was recently announced that Microsoft is working on a dedicated programming language specifically for quantum computers .