Marine power and automation technology group ABB says that recent modifications to its Azipod propulsion unit frame design have increased hydrodynamic efficiency by more than 2%.

The modifications include a newly optimized Azipod fin shape and a new pod cap structure, termed by ABB an "X-tail". The revised fin structure receives water flow from the propeller at a new, less acute angle, and its new curved design redirects the flow more efficiently. The unit's new X-tail, installed for the pod cap structure, straightens water flow on ejection from the Azipod propulsor, minimizing water swirling.