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Yep, there have been quite some successfull implementations of this approach around the world in recent years. Some limitations apply though. Firstly, the packaging and power, you are limited lets say by aprox. 40-60kW max peak output, otherwise these units are just huge. Also they are designed to be aircooled, usually incorporate useless (for EV) addons, wich are quite heavy, it's a stationary box (not designed for automotive vibrations). So, you will have to repackage them into something more compact, add a chill plate on water circuit etc. Not easy. Last but not least, the price is defined mostly by 2nd hand ebay prices/surplus and availability, currently it's quite overpriced and the prefered brands/models are hard to find, i.e. the firesale has taken already place around 2007-2009.
Given the fact there are now several companies offering "mid voltage" AC/BLDC drivetrain systems <450VDC, the route of industrial VFD is not that much appealing anymore. In terms of high voltage 700-900VDC system, which give you the best efficiency possible, it's still interesting, but even this area is being covered by diyers (in progress).
For the "low voltage" domain you got Curtis, and hopefully this P&S AC open source controller in the near future. So, the field of AC/FOC is pretty much covered. Yes, more consolidation, and documented practical experience is always needed, so the more betasters means faster adoption and debugging..
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