IBM has taken a significant step in expanding quantum computing in Europe by opening its first quantum data center on the continent, located in Ehningen, Germany. This center, IBM’s second worldwide, represents a milestone in quantum technology development and was inaugurated on October 1, 2024, with the presence of German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and European business leaders.
The facility houses IBM’s most advanced quantum systems, including the IBM Quantum Heron, which offers performance improvements up to 16 times greater and 25 times faster speed compared to 2022 quantum systems. This infrastructure is designed to perform calculations beyond what classical computers can achieve, solidifying Europe’s role in the global quantum ecosystem.
The new IBM Quantum Data Center includes systems based on the IBM Quantum Eagle chip, as well as the IBM Quantum Heron, the company’s most powerful quantum processor to date. With its ability to handle more complex algorithms, Heron offers users a quantum platform capable of calculations impossible for traditional systems, opening new doors for innovation in sectors such as materials science, artificial intelligence, and process optimization.
This quantum infrastructure is already being utilized by major European companies and institutions such as Crédit Mutuel, Bosch, E.ON, Volkswagen Group, and Ikerbasque, leveraging access to IBM Quantum’s global fleet to advance quantum algorithm discovery.
During the inauguration ceremony, Chancellor Olaf Scholz highlighted the significance of this investment, stating, “The opening of the IBM Quantum Data Center in Ehningen is excellent news for Germany. Not only does it strengthen our technological ecosystem, but it underscores investors’ confidence in the German market and supports the development of quantum computing skills in the country.”
Innovation in Europe is being driven by the expansion of IBM with this quantum data center. Quantum computing is being adopted by some of the continent’s leading companies to solve complex problems in areas such as energy transition, sustainable materials development, and traffic optimization. For example, Bosch is using quantum technology to develop new materials that aid in creating a carbon-neutral mobility.
Furthermore, companies like E.ON are exploring the use of quantum computing to address energy transition challenges, while Volkswagen is leveraging this technology to optimize processes for intelligent and sustainable mobility.
The new quantum data center in Europe is part of IBM’s mission to achieve quantum advantage, a point where quantum computing will surpass classical methods in solving practical problems. To facilitate this progress, IBM has made its quantum infrastructure accessible through the IBM Quantum Platform, enabling its customers to advance algorithm discovery and develop quantum use cases.
The opening of IBM’s first quantum data center in Europe marks a milestone in advancing quantum computing in the region, creating new opportunities for the development of quantum applications in key sectors. With this new infrastructure, IBM reinforces its commitment to technological innovation in Europe, providing companies, universities, and governments with the necessary tools to explore and harness the potential of quantum computing.
This center not only boosts Europe’s competitiveness in the global technological landscape but also lays the groundwork for the next generation of scientific discoveries and industrial advances. [Source: NewsRoom IBM]