Y,
Modern cruise ships use the Azipods. They've had them for quite a few
years as I remember.
Paul


Y wrote:

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.