Nissan has collaborated with Siemens and Hewlett Packard Enterprise to develop a vehicle design infrastructure linking the automaker's global R&D centers with the vehicle development data.

According to the companies, the engineering virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI) will offer Nissan more manageability over global vehicle design. Nissan will initially launch the infrastructure at its technical centers in North America and Europe, with future plans to expand it globally.

Nissan will initially launch the infrastructure at its technical centers in North America and Europe. Image credit: Nissan.Nissan will initially launch the infrastructure at its technical centers in North America and Europe. Image credit: Nissan.Engineering VDI uses graphics processing to allow designers access to a virtual 3D CAD workstation. With the technology, Nissan can store data on its servers to permit engineering teams around the world real-time access to enhance productivity and usability. The company says it expects the platform to decrease costs associated with future system enhancements and version upgrades by consolidating and improving infrastructure management.

The platform incorporates the following technologies:

  • HPE ProLiant WS460c Graphics Server Blades—which allows workstation-class graphics that provide engineers with a centralized, virtualized, high-definition desktop experience, including support for 3D graphics applications.
  • HPE 3PAR StoreServ 7400 Storage—which allows Nissan to store and manage data on a single, highly scalable and robust Tier-1 storage platform.
  • HPE Systems Insight Manager—which allows easy management of Nissan’s IT infrastructure, increasing system uptime for teams around the world.
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