Buehler Supplying Custom Water Pumps for Chevy Volt, GM Hybrids

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Convergence

As a means to meet the special cooling needs of the upcoming Chevrolet Volt extended-range electric vehicle's electric powertrain, General Motors Corp. will source customized auxiliary water pumps from Buehler Motor Inc. for use in the vehicle when it goes into production in late 2010.

While the Volt's internal-combustion engine will feature its own electric water pump, the expanded capacity of the EREV's electric-drive system necessitates the fitment of a separate cooling circuit for the electric motor, 16kWh lithium-ion battery pack and other subsystems.

Part of an effort that began with the two companies joining forces in mid-2007 to design the new components, the deal is valued at $50 million and includes the supply of custom 12- and 50-volt water pumps for use in the Volt and some of the auto maker's hybrid-electric vehicles, the supplier says.

Specifics of the agreement, as well as what additional vehicles will use the water pumps, are not available.

Morrisville, NC-based Buehler is the North American unit of Germany's Buehler Motor GmbH, which has been specializing in customized mechatronic drive and pumping solutions for nearly 40 years.

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