On Wednesday 19 January 2005 15:26, Butch Davis wrote:

Very old technology... WWII T-2 Tankers, for example, used electric
propulsion. For a yacht, IMO, it's fairly impractical. Cost, weight,
space, environment, and long term owner maintenance are issues which would
require resolution. Most systems on boats are very reliable and well
proven. A properly set up and maintained single diesel will last forever
and give few problems. Redundant fuel systems (including tankage)
increase
reliability significantly. A larger displacement slower turning diesel
will
give more satisfaction in a displacement hull. For the nervous a get home
hydraulic drive powered by the generator set should suffice as back up.
Again, redundant fuel systems for each engine including the gen set
greatly
increase reliability.

Butch


I actually read it was first used on ships in combination with steam
engines, so yes, that ain't too new BUT technology has advanced quite a bit
in the mean time. It might just be time to look at the technology again now
with new materials, power semiconductors and better electric
motors available. I think it looks pretty exciting. Of course you'd
want to get a picture of the cost. As far as availability, I found this:

http://www.abb.com/global/abbzh/abbzh251.nsf/wfrmMainFrame!ReadForm&db=/global/seitp/seitp161.nsf&v=17E96&e=us&ep=&c=F061D79CE14FC002C1 256BFA0051BB3A

If the link is broken, just search for 'azipod' on the abb home page.
I think ABB at least is thinking there is future in it.