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Azipod XL, the latest model of ABB's electric marine propulsion system, increases the fuel efficiency of ships by 20% compared to modern shaft drive systems, according to the supplier. This increase in efficiency is achieved by a nozzle system that accelerates the water flow into the propeller in order to increase thrust. The thruster has also been redesigned to reduce water resistance. The "Azipod" propulsion system is a gearless, steerable propulsion system in which the electric motor is mounted outside the hull in a submerged nacelle. With the drive rotating through 360°, it is used simultaneously for both steering and propelling a wide variety of ships. The "Azipod XL" concept can be designed in such a way that a high thrust is achieved at a lower speed and good performance characteristics are still achieved at higher speeds. The drive is therefore suitable for tugs and offshore construction vessels as well as ferries and LNG tankers. The drive also allows the system status to be monitored. The concept of the "Internet of Things, Services and People - IoTSP" and ABB's integrated "Marine Operations Center" are used for this purpose.