A pumping apparatus includes a housing having an inlet at a first end and an outlet at an opposite second end. An encapsulated stator defines an opening and is supported by the housing. A pressure plate includes diffuser vanes formed as part of the pressure plate. The pressure plate is formed as part of the encapsulated stator. A rotor is positioned at least partially within the opening and is rotatable with respect to the stator and an impeller is coupled to the rotor and cooperates with the pressure plate and the housing to pump a fluid from the inlet to the outlet in response to rotation of the rotor.