CASE STUDY

Modelling for efficient routing

Today's computers typically evaluate complex optimisation problems by examining possible solutions sequentially or by using sophisticated approximation techniques. As the number of variables grows, these problems rapidly become more difficult, often reaching a point where finding the true optimum is impractical.

Quantum computers are designed to explore extremely large solution spaces in fundamentally different ways. Although they will not solve every problem faster than classical computers, they have the potential to tackle specific optimisation and simulation challenges that are currently beyond practical reach.

For transport and logistics, this could enable organisations to consider many more factors simultaneously, including traffic conditions, weather, fuel consumption, delivery priorities, driver availability, customer demand and warehouse capacity. Quantum computing could provide solutions that improve efficiency, resilience and sustainability.

Rather than replacing existing artificial intelligence (AI) or high-performance computing systems, quantum computers are expected to become part of hybrid computing platforms that combine the strengths of each technology.

How will / is the technology being deployed in this particular sector (e.g. environment, healthcare, etc.)?

Potential applications include:

• Dynamic route optimisation for road freight, public transport and last-mile delivery.

• Fleet scheduling that adapts continuously to changing demand and disruptions.

• Optimisation of warehouse operations, including inventory placement and robotic picking systems.

• Supply chain planning across manufacturers, ports, distribution centres and retailers.

• Cargo loading and container packing to maximise capacity while meeting operational constraints.

• Maintenance scheduling for vehicles, aircraft and rail infrastructure to minimise downtime.

• Multi-modal transport planning that coordinates road, rail, sea and air transport.

As quantum hardware matures, these calculations could increasingly be performed in near real time, helping organisations respond rapidly to unexpected events such as severe weather, infrastructure failures or sudden changes in customer demand.

Global transport and communications systems are becoming increasingly interconnected, while organisations face growing pressure to reduce costs, improve resilience and meet ambitious sustainability targets. Conventional optimisation methods remain effective, but are approaching practical limits for some of the largest and most complex problems.

Quantum computing offers a promising new capability that could complement existing digital technologies, helping organisations solve optimisation challenges that are currently too computationally demanding. Although large-scale commercial deployment is still developing, governments, researchers and industry are already investing in quantum technologies to prepare for future applications in logistics, communications, manufacturing and critical national infrastructure.

The same optimisation techniques that improve transport systems can also be applied to many other types of networks.

Communications Networks Telecommunications providers operate vast networks carrying millions of simultaneous connections. Quantum optimisation could help determine the most efficient way to route data through fibre, mobile and satellite networks, reducing congestion, improving reliability and lowering energy consumption. As future 6G networks become increasingly dynamic, quantum computing may help manage network resources more efficiently.

Energy Networks Electricity grids are becoming increasingly complex as renewable generation, battery storage and electric vehicles are connected to the network. Quantum computing could help balance electricity supply and demand, optimise power flows and improve the resilience of national energy infrastructure.

Smart Cities Future cities will combine transport, communications, utilities and public services into highly interconnected systems. Quantum optimisation could help coordinate traffic signals, public transport, emergency services, energy usage and urban logistics to improve quality of life while reducing emissions.

Manufacturing Networks Manufacturers operate complex production systems involving suppliers, factories, warehouses and customers. Quantum computing could improve production scheduling, inventory management and supply chain resilience while reducing waste.

Financial Networks Banks and financial institutions manage large, interconnected portfolios and payment systems. Quantum optimisation techniques may improve portfolio management, fraud detection and risk analysis by identifying better solutions across extremely large datasets.

Healthcare Networks Hospitals and healthcare providers must coordinate staff, operating theatres, medical equipment and patient pathways. Quantum optimisation could help improve resource allocation and reduce waiting times while maintaining high-quality patient care.