Rheinmetall to supply pumps for FCEVs, power plants

Rheinmetall announced it has won an order worth over €26 million to supply high-voltage coolant pumps for use in fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) and stationary power plants

Rheinmetall CWA2000 high-voltage coolant pump. (Photo: Rheinmetall)

After two years of cooperation and development work, Rheinmetall said its technology group has secured the order from a well-known Asian engine maker, a new customer for the group. The initial order is for a low six-figure quantity of the CWA2000 high-voltage coolant pump for use in an 800V fuel cell-based architecture in small vans, trucks and stationary power plants.

Rheinmetall said the performance and small size of the product were the deciding factors in the orde. The CWA2000 is designed as a wet-running pump and is combined with bearings made of a material optimized for operation in cooling water applications. This makes it practically wear-free, the company asserted.

The 800V technology offers greater everyday usability and double the charging power of the 400V voltage level, as the electrical losses are reduced, Rheinmetall stated. It added that the technology allows use of thinner lines, saving space, weight and precious metals such as copper. In addition, the lower heat loss means that the cooling system can be smaller yet more efficient, the company added.

Production for the order will start in 2027 at the company’s Hartha (Germany) plant and will continue until 2031. The contract so far relates solely to the pumps and does not include any further services.

Further collaboration is planned in future for the development of the next generation of high-voltage coolant pumps.