A cooling system is provided for a thermoelectric power generator and that is arranged in an exhaust gas line of an internal combustion engine for generating electric power while utilizing thermal energy of the exhaust gas. The thermoelectric power generator has its own coolant circuit, which also serves to raise the temperature of the components of the internal combustion engine, the chassis, and/or the transmission or serves to heat the passenger compartment. This offers the added utility gained from a faster temperature rise of transmission lubricants and lubricants of the internal combustion engine, as well as from heating the passenger compartment and the rear axle differential and, thus, offers a reduction of carbon dioxide emissions (CO2).