country are larger than 5 horsepower, but the large motor fraction accounts for more than 70% of the electric energy use. This may account for why motors for domestic appliances (usually quite small) are not currently a target for better energy design. A new generation of innovative motor designs, which feature advanced power electronic converters, is on the threshold of commercial introduction for appliance applications from small hand tools to major home appliances. The new motors' capability for efficient variable-speed operation promises performance well beyond that of conventional AC units when optimized to the size and operational needs of the use.