Quantum optimisation in cities: Limitations and prospects of urban transport systems

TL;DR

This paper reviews the current state of quantum computing in urban transport planning, highlighting limitations and suggesting hybrid classical-quantum approaches for specific problem types.

Contribution

It critically assesses quantum methods versus classical approaches, proposing a problem-driven, hybrid framework for practical urban transport applications.

Findings

Classical methods outperform quantum in scalability and robustness.

Quantum mainly aids in exploratory analysis of specific subproblems.

Hybrid frameworks are recommended for realistic integration of quantum computing.

Abstract

Recently, quantum computing has gained attention in urban studies as a tool for complex transport planning problems, but its role remains unclear. This paper reviews quantum computing research in urban transport planning and highlights major limits in scalability, robustness, constraint handling, and engineering feasibility.Stable and reproducible advantages of quantum optimisation in real urban systems have yet to be shown. By comparing quantum methods with established classical optimisation methods, it is found that decomposition methods, metaheuristics, and reinforcement learning already provide transparent, scalable, and policy-interpretable solutions for medium and large-sized urban transport networks. In contrast, the contribution of quantum methods largely lies in the exploratory analysis of limited, discrete combinatorial subproblems rather than full system-level optimisation. It is argued in this paper for a shift from technology-driven application narrative towards problem-driven method selection. From an urban transport planning perspective, we have identified the specific problem types where the exploratory use of quantum computing may be relevant, including critical link and node vulnerability identification, combinatorial screening of congestion and failure scenarios, disaster-related condition analysis, constrained path option selection, and small-scale facility location and investment option assessment. It is concluded that hybrid frameworks represent a more realistic pathway for integrating quantum computing into urban transport research, in which classical methods ensure systemlevel consistency and policy interpretability while quantum methods support local combinatorial exploration. Until stable engineering advantages are demonstrated, public agencies and researchers should prioritise method validation, scenario suitability, and cross-disciplinary collaboration.