A high phase order alternating current rotating machine is disclosed having an inverter drive that provides more than three phases of drive waveform of harmonic order H, and characterized in that the windings of the machine have a pitch of less than 180 rotational degrees. Preferably the windings are connected together in a mesh, star or delta connection. A method for operating a high phase order induction motor is also disclosed, involving electrically connecting N windings into a mesh connection with a value of Δ that provides a substantial range in speed/torque relation when operating with at least two out of first, second and third harmonic, low order harmonics being the most efficient.