This paper presents the modeling and performance analysis of a hysteresis IPM motor drive for electric submersible pumps (ESPs). The purpose of this paper is to extend the run-life of the downhole ESPs in offshore oil recovery plants by introducing a more reliable and more efficient submersible hysteresis IPM motor drive into the existing ESP technology. An adjustable speed controller has been designed in order to soft-start the motor at variable frequencies. Simulations have been carried out to obtain the performances of a 3-phase 4-pole 208V 2.5 kW hysteresis IPM motor drive for ESP load. Experimental investigations have been also carried out for a laboratory prototype 2.5 kW hysteresis IPM motor. Both the simulation and experimental results are presented and analyzed in this paper. Based on the simulation and the experimental results, the hysteresis IPM motor can be a possible replacement for the standard induction motors currently used for downhole ESPs.