Part of Trackm8, Livingston-based Route Monkey already works with Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh on algorithms for transport and travel. The two are now joining forces with the Networked Quantum Information Technologies (NQIT) hub, led by the University of Oxford, to develop, test and commercialise quantum algorithms.
Route Monkey’s optimisation solutions eliminate unnecessary mileage and improve vehicle utilisation – typically, it says, reducing fleet costs by up to 20% and substantially cutting carbon emissions.
The algorithms can make millions of calculations in a relatively short space of time, vastly improving on manual transport planning. They provide a competitive edge to businesses and also help cities deal with challenges such as congestion.
Colin Ferguson, Trakm8 Group’s managing director of fleet and Optimisation, said: “The leap forward in the capabilities offered by quantum computing opens up a whole new field. We can create algorithms that deliver even faster and more accurate answers, to ever more complex transport and mobility challenges.”
Dr Iris Choi, technology associate at the NQIT Hub, says: “Heriot-Watt University has proven capabilities in mobility algorithm development, while Route Monkey is an acknowledged leader in the application and commercialisation of these algorithms.
“Together we have all the right ingredients to develop, test and apply truly innovative quantum algorithms for optimising urban mobility.”