Honda backs quantum startup Quemix to speed up next-gen battery materials
What's the deal? QuemixDealroom has a profile for this one. Try Dealroom →, a Tokyo-based quantum computing startup, has raised an early-stage round from HondaDealroom has a profile for this one. Try Dealroom →. Honda Motor Co. led the investment, announced in August 2026. Quemix develops algorithms and software for quantum computers.
Why now? The deal follows a run of joint research. In May 2025, Quemix and Honda co-developed technology to read out quantum states; in June 2026, they built a quantum algorithm that accelerates density functional theory calculations, a core method in materials science.
What's the endgame? Quemix wants to move quantum techniques out of the lab and into real materials-development work. The company aims to accelerate development of next-generation battery materials and targets practical use of quantum computing in materials simulation by 2030.
Who's who? Quemix, founded in 2019, is a subsidiary of TerraSky. It focuses on algorithms for fault-tolerant quantum computers and has patented its Probabilistic Imaginary-Time Evolution (PITE) method in Japan.
Honda framed the deal as part of its carbon-neutrality push. Honda said the investment will strengthen ties and accelerate Quemix's growth. The investment runs through Honda Xcelerator VenturesDealroom has a profile for this one. Try Dealroom →, Honda's global open-innovation program.
The signal: The tie-up shows large manufacturers moving from research partnerships to equity stakes as they bet quantum computing can shorten the path to better battery chemistry — a quick re-raise that turns lab collaboration into capital.
Image credit: IBM Research
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