Scott,

  I agree with your assumptions as they apply to FWD cars that require
paltry amounts of coolant and only have to push it a short distance. But
what about Vanagons which hold gallons and have round trips measured in
yards? I would think that would greatly increase the load on the water
pump. I have compared a new pump to an old one. The wear on the impeller
blades is very evident . So an electric driven water pump might prove a
healthy gain in FE (fuel economy).

Ken lewis
http://neksiwel.20m.com/