NOVELTY - The thermoelectric generator has thermoelectric module (19) which contacts heat source hot side and heat sink cold side. An exhaust gas channel (11) and cooling passage (25) are in heat-conducting connection with hot side and cold side of thermoelectric module respectively. The cooling channel is provided with opening facing the cold side of the thermoelectric module. A seal made of elastic material or silicone, is formed on cold side of thermoelectric module facing cooling channel and/or on hot side of thermoelectric module facing exhaust gas channel.    USE - Thermoelectric generator attached to exhaust gas passage of internal combustion engine of motor car.    ADVANTAGE - The heat energy of exhaust gas can be converted into electric energy reliably, so that the electrical energy can be supplied to the electrical system of the motor car efficiently. Thus, the fuel consumption can be reduced. The exhaust gas channel and cooling passage are provided with openings, so that the heat transfer between the thermoelectric module and the corresponding heat transfer fluid can be improved. The resilient seal can compensate unevenness on the surface of the thermoelectric module and tolerances of the channel wall, thus ensuring a secure seal of the relevant channel in the region of the opening. The seal can include channel separating portion extending between two parallel channel sections of the cooling passage and/or of the exhaust gas channel, so as to prevent undesired crosstalk between the parallel channel sections and to improve the heat transfer between the fluid and thermo-electrically active surface. The weight of the thermoelectric generator can be reduced. The cooling passage can be configured as a one-piece injection-molded component, so that the manufacturing cost and manufacturing process of the cooling channel can be reduced. The assembling and maintenance property of the thermoelectric generator can be improved. Undesired escape of cooling fluid can be prevented by the seal.    DETAILED DESCRIPTION - The exhaust gas channel is provided with opening facing the hot side of the thermoelectric module.    DESCRIPTION OF DRAWING(S) - The drawing shows a perspective view of the thermoelectric generator attached to exhaust gas passage of internal combustion engine.    Exhaust gas channel (11)    Sub-passage (12)    Flange (13)    Thermoelectric module (19)    Cooling passage (25)