New EPS Retractable Azimuthing Rimdrive propulsion

I don't know if it's been featured here already, but I do know that a few forum-members were waiting for this kind of thing: The EPS Azimuthing, Retractable, Rimdrive thruster.

Allthough I have my doubts about its use for conventional twin-engine + bowthruster yachts, I see many applications where this may be just the right component:

1. Single-engined yachts in search of emergency propulsion
2. Sportfisher yachts who spend lots of time trolling
3. Sailing yachts - get rid of the shaftline and install retractable azimuthing bow- and sternthrusters. Much less appendage drag during sailing!
4. Dynamic positioning with one of these in the bow and one in the stern.

Rolls Royce has produced a larger version of this kind of propulsion for a while already (Ullstein Aquamaster), but that's not with rimdrive (both electrical and diesel-driven). Hydraulically driven versions can be found at Veth for example.

Two still-to-built Feadships have the EPS azimuthing retractable thuster in their specification.

Bruno