The German group has also entered into a partnership with IBM to use quantum computing and simulation technology to find alternatives to the rare earths and metals needed for electric vehicles
Bosch intends to foray into the market for quantum sensor product. (Credit: Robert Bosch GmbH)
German engineering and technology company Robert Bosch has announced plans to invest €10bn through 2025 in digitalisation and connectivity.
The company said that two-thirds of its investment will be dedicated to develop and expand promising new technologies that are focussed on sustainability, Industry 4.0, and mobility.
According to Bosch board of management chairman Stefan Hartung, digitalisation presents key opportunities in all areas of the company’s business.
Apart from new technologies, the German firm plans to invest in vocational training and professional development for its employees with the view that they are the key to technology.
In addition, Bosch has announced its partnership with IBM to use quantum computing and simulation technology to find alternatives to the rare earths and metals needed for electric vehicles (EVs).
Hartung said: “We share our experience in simulating materials for very specific application areas with IBM and in return we gain deeper insights into the power and applicability of quantum computing including hardware. Together, we are taking quantum simulation to the next level and are gaining a competitive edge internationally.”
Through the partnership, Bosch will have access to IBM’s fleet of over 20 advanced quantum computers that will be available over the IBM cloud.
IBM and Bosch expect to develop robust and powerful quantum algorithms to discover and design new materials that are significant to achieve higher energy efficiency and for lowering the consumption of natural resources.
IBM quantum adoption and business development vice president Scott Crowder said: “Even simple models of real materials tend to quickly become intractable for classical computers to simulate. That’s why Bosch’s collaboration with IBM, as well as the extended IBM Quantum Network on quantum computing research is so important.
“We will work together on addressing a wide range of materials science problems, in the fields of electromobility, renewable energy and sensor technology. Our team is looking forward to collaborating with Bosch.”
Earlier this year, Bosch announced plans to invest €3bn through 2026 in the group’s semiconductor technology and the systems based on it.