What Technology in Chessnut Move?

I'm intrigued by the ChessNut Move, but I'd like to understand the technology on which the piece movement is based before making a purchase. From the online reference it appears the pieces are all individually motorized. If that's so, I can't decide if it's genius or insanity! The fact that the users guide has a section devoted to replacing the base on a defective piece is likewise either refreshingly transparent or an admission of failure.

How long has this thing been on the market and what's the hive mind's view of its initial quality and life expectancy?