Dell Tech World 2026: Mazda Builds AI-Ready Data Foundation with Dell

Key Takeaways

• Mazda expanded storage from 4 PB to 10 PB using Dell PowerScale.
• Storage cost per unit fell 90% after consolidating data.
• Unified NAS platform supports CAD and AI workloads simultaneously.
• Automated replication and AIOps improve data protection and observability.
• Mazda aims to build AI data lake for vehicle development.

Pulse Analysis

Automakers are grappling with an explosion of simulation and sensor data as vehicles become increasingly software‑defined. Traditional tape‑based archives struggle with latency and cost, creating bottlenecks for engineers who need rapid access to design histories. Mazda’s decision to centralize its model‑based development and CAD repositories on Dell’s PowerScale reflects a broader industry shift toward high‑performance, scale‑out storage that can serve both legacy workloads and emerging AI demands.

Dell PowerScale’s architecture blends massive capacity with low‑latency access, making it suitable for the dual needs of CAD rendering and AI model training. Integrated tools like InsightIQ provide AIOps‑driven monitoring, while SnapshotIQ and SyncIQ automate protection and cross‑chassis replication. This combination reduces the operational burden on IT teams, cuts per‑unit storage costs by 90 %, and eliminates the need for costly tape media. The result is a unified data fabric that delivers real‑time visibility and resilience, essential for continuous vehicle development cycles.

The strategic impact extends beyond cost savings. With a consolidated data lake, Mazda can feed generative‑AI algorithms with decades of engineering data, accelerating design iterations and enabling predictive analytics for advanced driver‑assistance systems. As competitors race to embed AI across the vehicle lifecycle, Mazda’s infrastructure positions it to innovate faster and more efficiently. The partnership underscores how cloud‑grade storage solutions are becoming foundational assets in the automotive AI race, setting a benchmark for other manufacturers seeking similar digital transformation.