Cambridge, UK – 4colors Research, a leader in innovative algorithmic techniques, has been announced as the winner of the Quantum-Powered Logistics track in the prestigious Airbus-BMW Quantum Computing Challenge. The award was presented at the Q2B 2024 Silicon Valley conference held in Santa Clara, CA, last week.
The company earned this recognition for its innovative solution to a manufacturing supply chain optimization challenge faced by industry giants like Airbus and BMW. The problem involves optimizing production and transportation planning between facilities while minimizing costs, reducing CO2 emissions, and addressing environmental sustainability. A panel of industry experts praised the solution for its practicality, novelty, and cutting-edge use of hybrid classical-quantum algorithms, which tackle critical issues in both the aviation and automotive sectors.
“Optimizing large-scale supply chain problems is one of the most complex computational challenges, akin to solving massive, multidimensional Sudoku puzzles,” explained Dr. Marcin Kaminski, CEO of 4colors Research. “This project highlights the potential of quantum computing to address these challenges and create real-world impact. Collaborating with Airbus and BMW was an exceptional opportunity to demonstrate how advanced algorithms can help minimize costs and reduce the environmental footprint of large-scale operations.”
4colors Research’s innovative solution combines advanced mathematical optimization techniques with quantum-readiness, enabling immediate deployment on classical computing infrastructure while preparing for integration with quantum hardware as the technology matures. Proof-of-concept experiments conducted on Amazon Braket validated the solution’s feasibility, demonstrating its ability to harness quantum computing while delivering robust results on classical systems.
“Our solver is designed to address supply chain problems at scale today, using classical computing, while being fully adaptable to leverage quantum advancements in the future,” added Dr. Kaminski. “At 4colors, we’re dedicated to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with advanced algorithms, ensuring they deliver practical value for businesses while promoting environmental sustainability.”
The Quantum Mobility Quest, jointly organized by Airbus (EPA: AIR) and BMW Group (ETR: BMW) with support from Amazon Web Services (NASDAQ: AMZN) and The Quantum Insider, is an international competition showcasing the transformative potential of quantum computing in addressing industrial challenges. This year’s event attracted over 420 teams, with more than 100 submissions competing across five distinct tracks.
Finalists collaborated closely with Airbus and BMW experts to develop tailored solutions addressing specific business requirements. The jury’s selection of 4colors Research as the winner underscores the ingenuity and effectiveness of its algorithmic approach in solving real-world industrial problems.
Airbus is a global leader in aerospace, renowned for its cutting-edge aircraft and defense systems, while the BMW Group, encompassing brands like BMW, MINI, and Rolls-Royce, is a pioneer in sustainable automotive manufacturing and mobility solutions. Together, these organizations drive innovation and technological excellence in their respective industries.
Press releases from the organizers: Airbus | BMW | AWS | The Quantum Insider. Related media coverage: Yahoo Finance | Business Wire.
You can also read our blog post about our participation in the challenge.