Description:

FORM 2
THE PATENTS ACT, 1970
(39 of 1970)
&
THE PATENTS RULES, 2003
COMPLETE SPECIFICATION
[See section 10, Rule 13]

ELECTRIC VEHICLE

HERO MOTOCORP LIMITED, an Indian Company at: The Grand Plaza, Plot No.2, Nelson Mandela Road, Vasant Kunj- Phase -II, New Delhi, India, 110 070

THE FOLLOWING SPECIFICATION PARTICULARLY DESCRIBES THE INVENTION AND THE MANNER IN WHICH IT IS TO BE PERFORMED.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION:
[01] The present invention relates to an electric vehicle in particular supporting a charger unit intended to charging at least one battery carried by the electric vehicle.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION:
[02] Electric Vehicles such as electric motorcycles or electric scooters comprise at least one battery and a power generating motor to operate the vehicle. The power generating motor generates necessary drive force based on the electric power supplied by the battery. Currently, various types of electric motorcycles exist in the market such as an electric motorcycle in which one or more replaceable batteries are provided. In this type of vehicle, every time the battery has to be removed, the battery has to be removed from the vehicle. After recharging, the battery is then placed in the vehicle.

[03] Also, there are available in the market electric vehicles which comprise one or more batteries that can be re-charged in a vehicle mounted condition itself. In such vehicles, there is provided a battery charging device which can be connected to the battery (for instance through suitable connectors disposed on the vehicle) for charging the one or more batteries. These types of vehicles offer the advantage of not needing to remove the battery which has got discharged merely for the purposes of re-charging them. However, since the battery has to be charged using the battery charging device, the user has to be supplied a battery charging device.

[04] If the battery charging device is not locatable in the vehicle itself, it could be a trouble for the user to separately carry the battery charging device. In many instances, especially, in a two wheeled vehicle such as electric motorcycles, there is a substantial limitation in the amount of space available and hence, substantial difficulty is faced in locating the battery charging device.

[05] Additionally, the battery charging device has to be located at a location which is substantially easy to access. Especially, when the battery charging device is located in an easily accessible region of the vehicle, there exists a substantial risk of the esthetic value of the vehicle being compromised. Thus, the battery charging device has to be located at a location without compromising on the esthetic value of the vehicle.

[06] Additionally, the battery charging device has to be located at a location which is not susceptible to un-authorized accesses. Thus, there exists a need to address at least one of the difficulties as mentioned above in effectively locating the battery charging device in relation to the vehicle.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION:
[07] This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This Summary is not intended to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[08] Accordingly, the present invention provides an electric vehicle, comprising: a frame structure supporting at least one ground engaging member, a motor supplying driving power to the at least one ground engaging member, and at least one battery providing electrical power to the motor. The electric vehicle further comprises at least one seat providing a seating to at least a driver of the electric vehicle. The electric vehicle further comprises a compartment supported by the frame structure. In an embodiment of the invention, the compartment is located below the at least one seat. In an embodiment of the invention, a battery charger device is located within the compartment.

[09] In an embodiment of the invention, the at least one seat comprises a front tip portion and the compartment comprises a first tip portion and a second tip portion.

[010] In another embodiment of the invention, the front tip portion of the at least one seat is located between the first tip portion and the second tip portion of the compartment.

[011] In yet another embodiment of the invention, the compartment is disposed on a left-hand side of the vehicle.

[012] In still another embodiment of the invention, the electric vehicle further comprises an upper cowl element disposed between the at least one seat and a steering handle bar.

[013] In a further embodiment of the invention, the first tip portion of the compartment is located below upper cowl element in a side view of the vehicle and the second tip portion of the compartment is located rearward of the upper cowl element in a side view of the vehicle.

[014] In a furthermore embodiment of the invention, the battery charger device comprises: a charger unit; a socket side wire intended to connecting the charger unit to an AC power outlet; and a vehicle side wire intended to connecting the charger unit to the at least one battery.

[015] In an embodiment of the invention, one of the socket side wire and the vehicle side wire is detachable with respect to the charger unit.

[016] In another embodiment of the invention, the charger unit comprises a casing and a handle spaced apart from the casing.

[017] In yet another embodiment of the invention, the compartment comprises a side wall, a top wall extending from the side wall, a front wall extending from the side wall, and a rear wall extending from the side wall.

[018] In still another embodiment of the invention, the side wall, the top wall, the front wall and the rear wall define an internal space in which at least the charger unit is located.

[019] In a further embodiment of the invention, the compartment receives the charger unit such that the casing faces the top wall and the handle faces away from the top wall and towards a bottom portion of the compartment.

[020] In a furthermore embodiment of the invention, the compartment further comprises a lid member restricting access to the internal space of the compartment in a first state and allowing access to the internal space of the compartment in a second state.

[021] In an embodiment of the invention, the lid member comprises a locking mechanism to lock the lid member with respect to the compartment.

[022] In another embodiment of the invention, the compartment comprises at least one protrusion extending from the side wall, slidably receiving the charger unit.

[023] In yet another embodiment of the invention, the compartment comprises a first movement restricting structure extending from the front wall, restricting movement of the charger unit towards the front wall.

[024] In still another embodiment of the invention, the compartment comprises a second movement restricting structure extending from the rear wall, restricting movement of the charger unit towards the rear wall.

[025] In a further embodiment of the invention, the second movement restricting structure is spaced apart from the first movement restricting structure in a vehicle length direction.

[026] In a furthermore embodiment of the invention, the compartment comprises a third movement restricting structure restricting movement of the charger unit towards the lid member.

[027] In an embodiment of the invention, the compartment comprises a fourth movement restricting structure extending from the top wall, restricting movement of the charger unit towards the top wall as well as holding the charger unit at a distance from the top wall.

[028] In another embodiment of the invention, the at least one protrusion extending from the side wall comprises a sloped surface adapted to come in contact and guide the charger unit.

[029] In yet another embodiment of the invention, the first movement restricting structure is a stepped structure extending from the front wall.

[030] In still another embodiment of the invention, the second movement restricting structure being a stepped structure extending from the rear wall.

[031] In a further embodiment of the invention, the third movement restricting structure comprises a first strap member and a second strap member connectable to the first strap member.

[032] In a furthermore embodiment of the invention, the compartment comprises a socket disposed on one of the side wall, the top wall, the front wall, and the rear wall.

[033] In an embodiment of the invention, the socket provides a connection between the vehicle side wire and the at least one battery.

[034] In another embodiment of the invention, there is provided a socket lid restricting connection of the vehicle side wire to the socket in a first state and allowing connection of the vehicle side wire to the socket in a second state.

[035] In yet another embodiment of the invention, the bottom portion of the compartment accommodates at least one of the socket side wire and the vehicle side wire.

[036] In still another embodiment of the invention, the socket side wire comprises a first end connectable to an external power source, a second end connectable to the charger unit, and a first intermediate portion positioned between the first end and the second end.

[037] In a further embodiment of the invention, a dimension of the first intermediate portion is less than a dimension of the first end and the second end.

[038] In a furthermore embodiment of the invention, the vehicle side wire comprises a third end connectable to the socket, a fourth end connectable to the charger unit, and a second intermediate portion positioned between the third end and the fourth end.

[039] In an embodiment of the invention, a dimension of the second intermediate portion is less than a dimension of the third end and the fourth end.

[040] In another embodiment of the invention, the compartment comprises a first mounting provision protruding from the top wall, a second mounting provision protruding from the rear wall, and a third mounting provision formed on the side wall.

[041] In yet another embodiment of the invention, the compartment is coupled to the frame structure vide the first mounting provision, the second mounting provision, and the third mounting provision.

[042] An advantage of the invention is that the battery charging device is located on the vehicle itself, and hence, a trouble associated with separately carrying the battery charging device is overcome.

[043] Another advantage of the invention is that the battery charging device is located in a compartment located below the at least one seat. Thus, a space below the at least one seat (which would otherwise be not used) is effectively used to accommodate the battery charging device.

[044] Yet another advantage of the invention is that by locating the compartment on a left-hand side of the vehicle, there is substantial ease in accessing the compartment and hence, the battery charging device located within the compartment.

[045] Still another advantage of the invention is that the upper cowl element disposed between the at least one seat and the steering handle bar co-operates with a lid member forming part of the compartment to enhance an esthetic appeal of the electric vehicle. In particular, positioning the first tip portion of the compartment below upper cowl element in a side view of the vehicle and positioning the second tip portion of the compartment rearward of the upper cowl element in a side view of the vehicle, an aesthetic appeal of the electric vehicle is substantially enhanced.

[046] A further advantage of the invention is that the battery charger device is made of at least two units namely a charger unit, a socket side wire, and a vehicle side wire, and at least one of the socket side wire and the vehicle side wire is detachable with respect to the charger unit and the compartment comprises a side wall, a top wall, a front wall and a rear wall co-operating to define an internal space and a lid member restricting access to the internal space of the compartment. Thus, the charger unit is located within the internal space, while at least one of the socket side wire and the vehicle side wire can be located on the lid member. This allows efficient utilization of the limited space available within the compartment.

[047] A furthermore advantage of the invention is that the orientation of the charger unit within the internal space allows efficient utilization of the limited space available within the compartment. Also, by locating the socket side wire and the vehicle side wire in the bottom portion of the compartment, allows efficient utilization of the limited space available within the compartment.

[048] Another advantage of the invention is that access to the internal space of the compartment can be gained only after the locking mechanism is un-locked. Thus, the battery charging device located within the compartment is not susceptible to un-authorized accesses.

[049] Yet another advantage of the invention is that the charger unit can be easily and more particularly slidably located within the compartment. This enhances an ease of locating the charger unit within the compartment.

[050] Yet another advantage of the invention is that the charger unit is not merely placed loosely in the compartment. Still another advantage of the invention is that movement of the charger unit within the compartment is prohibited. Thus, vibration of the charger unit within the compartment is prohibited. There is also provided space surrounding the charger unit within the compartment which allows easy removal of the charger unit from the compartment.

[051] A further advantage of the invention is that the compartment which accommodates the battery charger device also comprises accommodates a socket providing a connection between the vehicle side wire and the at least one battery and a socket lid restricting connection of the vehicle side wire to the socket in a first state. Thus, a level of security is substantially increased and also a level of protection of the socket from foreign contaminants is substantially increased.

[052] A furthermore advantage of the invention is that the charger unit can be located within the compartment even when the battery is being charged. Thus, a security of the battery charger device is increased.

[053] Another advantage of the invention is that the first movement restricting structure, the second movement restricting structure, and the fourth movement restricting structure provide firm grip to hold the charger unit in place and prevents any rattling noise during running of the vehicle when the charger unit is placed within the provided space in the compartment.

[054] Yet another advantage of the invention is that at least one protrusion, the first movement restricting structure, the second movement restricting structure, and the fourth movement restricting structure can be fabricated at the time of forming the compartment. Thus, a cost of manufacturing the compartment and electric vehicle is kept low.

[055] Still another advantage of the invention is that by using the strap member, a construction, a weight and a cost of the vehicle is not adversely impacted. The strap member also provides firm grip to hold the charger unit in place and prevents any rattling noise during running of the vehicle when the charger unit is placed within the provided space in the compartment.

[056] To further clarify the advantages and features of the invention, a more particular description of the invention will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof, which is illustrated in the appended drawings. It is appreciated that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the invention and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope. The invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES:
[057] In order that the invention may be readily understood and put into practical effect, reference will now be made to exemplary embodiments as illustrated with reference to the accompanying drawings, where like reference numerals refer to identical or functionally similar elements throughout the separate views. The figures together with a detailed description below, are incorporated in and form part of the specification, and serve to further illustrate the embodiments and explain various principles and advantages, in accordance with the present invention where:

[058] Figure 1 illustrates a side view of the vehicle in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[059] Figure 2 illustrates a side view of the vehicle after removing the lid member thereby showing the placement of the charger unit within the compartment in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[060] Figure 3 illustrates a side view of the compartment specifically accommodating the charger unit and the socket side wire in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[061] Figure 4 illustrates a side view of the compartment after removal of the charger unit and the socket side wire in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[062] Figure 5 illustrates an exploded perspective view of the compartment, the battery charger device, and the lid member in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[063] Figure 6 illustrates an exploded perspective view of the compartment, the battery charger device in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[064] Figure 7 illustrates a perspective view of the compartment accommodating the charger unit and the socket side wire in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[065] Figure 8 illustrates a side view of the vehicle wherein the lid member is attached to the compartment and either the socket side wire or the vehicle side wire traverses through the lid member in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[066] Figure 9 illustrates a close-up view of the vehicle along the line shown in Figure 8 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[067] Figure 10 illustrates a close-up view of the vehicle along the line shown in Figure 8 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention; and

[068] Figure 11 illustrates a close-up view of the compartment accommodating the charger unit and the socket side wire and specifically showing the socket cover in an attached state with respect to the socket in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[069] It may be noted that to the extent possible, like reference numerals have been used to represent like elements in the drawings. Further, skilled artisans will appreciate that elements in the drawings are illustrated for simplicity and may not have been necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements in the drawings may be exaggerated relative to other elements to help to improve understanding of aspects of the present invention. Furthermore, one or more elements may have been represented in the drawings by conventional symbols, and the drawings may show only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of the present invention so as not to obscure the drawings with details that will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the description herein.

Detailed Description of the Invention:
[070] For the purpose of promoting an understanding of the principles of the invention, reference will now be made to the embodiment illustrated in the drawings and specific language will be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the invention is thereby intended, such alterations and further modifications in the illustrated device, and such further applications of the principles of the invention as illustrated therein being contemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the invention relates.

[071] It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are explanatory of the invention and are not intended to be restrictive thereof.

[072] As used in the description herein and throughout the claims that follow, the meaning of “a,” “an,” and “the” includes plural reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Also, as used in the description herein, the meaning of “in” includes “in” and “on” unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[073] Reference throughout this specification to “an aspect”, “another aspect” or similar language means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, appearances of the phrase “in an embodiment”, “in another embodiment”, and similar language throughout this specification may, but do not necessarily, all refer to the same embodiment.

[074] The terms "comprises", "comprising", or any other variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that one or more devices or sub-systems or elements or structures or components proceeded by "comprises... a" does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of other devices or other sub-systems or other elements or other structures or other components or additional devices or additional sub-systems or additional elements or additional structures or additional components.

[075] As used herein, and unless the context dictates otherwise, the terms "coupled to", “connected to”, “operably connected to”, and “operatively connected to” are intended to include both direct connection / coupling (in which two elements that are coupled / connected to each other contact each other) and indirect coupling / connection (in which at least one additional element is located between the two elements). Therefore, the terms "coupled to" and "coupled with" are used synonymously. Similarly, the terms “connected to” and “connected with” are used synonymously.

[076] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one ordinary skilled in the art to which this invention belongs. The device, methods, and examples provided herein are illustrative only and not intended to be limiting.

[077] The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g. “such as”) provided with respect to certain embodiments herein is intended merely to better illuminate the invention and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the invention otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element as being essential to the practice of the invention.

[078] Groupings of alternative elements or embodiments of the invention disclosed herein are not to be construed as limitations. Each group member can be referred to and claimed individually or in any combination with other members of the group or other elements found herein. One or more members of a group can be included in, or deleted from, a group for reasons of convenience and/or patentability. When any such inclusion or deletion occurs, the specification is herein deemed to contain the group as modified thus fulfilling the written description of all Markush groups used in the appended claims.

[079] Embodiments of the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[080] The terms “front / forward”, “rear / rearward / back / backward”, “up / upper / top”, “down / lower / lower ward / downward, bottom”, “left / leftward”, “right / rightward” used therein represents the directions as seen from a vehicle driver sitting astride.

[081] While the present invention is illustrated in the context of a vehicle, however, cover and aspects and features thereof can be used with other types of vehicles as well. The terms “vehicle”, “two wheeled vehicle” and “motorcycle” have been interchangeably used throughout the description. The term “vehicle” comprises vehicles such as motorcycles, scooters, bicycles, mopeds, scooter type vehicles, All-Terrain Vehicles (ATV) and the like.

[082] Referring to Figure 1 there is illustrated an electric vehicle (10). The electric vehicle (10) comprises, inter-alia, a frame structure (12) rotatably supporting at least one ground engaging member and in particular, supporting a front ground engaging member (14) and a rear ground engaging member (16). The frame structure (12) furthermore supports a motor (18) that supplies a driving power to at least one of the front ground engaging member (14) and the rear ground engaging member (16). The frame structure (12) further supports at least one battery (20) that provides electrical power to the motor (18).

[083] In particular, the front ground engaging member (14) is rotatably coupled to a front fork (22). The front fork (22) is coupled to a steering handle bar (24). The steering handle bar (24) is steerably supported by the frame structure (12). In particular, the rear ground engaging member (16) is rotatably coupled to a swing arm (26) and the swing arm (26) is swingably coupled to the frame structure (12). The swing arm (26) is furthermore coupled to the frame structure (12) vide a rear cushion element (28). By way of a non-limiting example, the motor (18) supplies the driving power to the rear ground engaging member (16) vide a transmission unit (34). The electric vehicle (10) further comprises a headlight (30) positioned above the front ground engaging member (14) and a tail light (32) positioned above the rear ground engaging member (16).

[084] The electric vehicle (10) further comprises at least one seat (36) supported by the frame structure (12), the at least one seat (30) providing a seating provision to a driver and/or a pillion rider. The vehicle further comprises an upper cowl element (38) disposed above the frame structure (12). The upper cowl element (38) is located between the seat (36) and the steering handle bar (18). The upper cowl element (38) is placed ahead of a front tip (40) of the at least one seat (36). The electric vehicle (10) further comprises a compartment (42) located below the at least one seat (36). The compartment (42) comprises further a detachable lid member (72). The compartment (42) further comprises a first tip (44) and a second tip (46). The first tip (44) being spaced apart from the second tip (46) in a length direction of the electric vehicle (10).

[085] Referring to Figure 2, Figure 3, and Figure 4 the compartment (42) accommodates a battery charger device (48) intended to charge the at least one battery (20). Access to the battery charger device (48) can be gained after removing the lid member (72) with respect to the compartment (42). Thus, the lid member (72) restricts access to an internal space (70) (best seen in Figure 4) of the compartment (42) in a first state and allows access to the internal space (70) of the compartment (42) in a second state. In an embodiment of the invention, the lid member (72) comprises a locking mechanism (110) (best seen in Figure 5) to lock the lid member (72) with respect to the compartment (42).

[086] Referring to Figure 1 and Figure 2, the front tip portion (40) of the at least one seat (36) is located between the first tip portion (44) and the second tip portion (46) of the compartment (42). Also, it can be seen that the compartment (42) is disposed on a left-hand side of the vehicle (10). Furthermore, it can be observed that the upper cowl element (38) is between the at least one seat (36) and a steering handle bar (24), while the first tip portion (44) of the compartment (42) is located below upper cowl element (38) in a side view of the vehicle and the second tip portion (46) of the compartment (42) is located rearward of the upper cowl element (38) in a side view of the vehicle.

[087] Now referring to Figure 5 and Figure 6, the battery charger device (48) comprises a charger unit (50); a socket side wire (52) intended to connecting the charger unit (50) to an AC power outlet; and a vehicle side wire (54) intended to connecting the charger unit (24) to the at least one battery (20). In an embodiment of the invention, one of the socket side wire (52) and the vehicle side wire (54) is detachable with respect to the charger unit (50). While in Figure 5, the socket side wire (52) is shown in a detached state with respect to the charger unit (50) and the vehicle side wire (54) is shown in an attached state with respect to the charger unit (50), in an alternative embodiment of the invention which is shown in Figure 6, both the socket side wire (52) and the vehicle side wire (54) can be in a detached state with respect to the charger unit (50). It can be also observed from Figure 6 that the socket side wire (52) comprises a first end (92) connectable to an external power source and a second end (94) connectable to the charger unit (50). The socket side wire (52) comprises further comprises a first intermediate portion (96) positioned between the first end (92) and the second end (94). Also, it can be observed that the vehicle side wire (54) comprises a third end (98) connectable to the socket (88), and a fourth end (100) connectable to the charger unit (50). The vehicle side wire (54) further comprises a second intermediate portion (102) positioned between the third end (98) and the fourth end (100). Generally, a cross-sectional dimension of the first intermediate portion (96) is less than a cross-sectional dimension of the first end (92) and the cross-sectional dimension of the second end (94) and likewise, a cross-sectional dimension of the second intermediate portion (102) being less than a cross-sectional dimension of the third end (98) and a cross-sectional dimension of the fourth end (100). The charger unit (50) comprises a casing (56) and a handle (58) spaced apart from the casing (56).

[088] Now referring back to Figure 2 and Figure 3, in an embodiment of the invention, the charger unit (50) and the socket side wire (52) are accommodated in the internal space (70) of the compartment (42) in a detached state. In the embodiment shown in Figure 2 and Figure 3, the vehicle side wire (54) is in a detached state with respect to the charger unit (50). Although not shown, the vehicle side wire (54) may be attached to a rear side of the lid member (72).

[089] Now referring to Figure 4, in an embodiment of the invention, the compartment (42) comprises a side wall (62), a top wall (64) extending from the side wall (62), a front wall (66) extending from the side wall (62), a rear wall (68) extending from the side wall (62). The side wall (62), the top wall (64), the front wall (66) and the rear wall (68) co-operate to define the internal space (70). The compartment (42) further comprises a first mounting provision (104) protruding from the top wall (64), a second mounting provision (106) protruding from the rear wall (68), and a third mounting provision (108) formed on the side wall (62). The compartment (42) is coupled to the frame structure (12) vide the first mounting provision (104), the second mounting provision (106), and the third mounting provision (108). The compartment (42) further comprising a socket (88) disposed on one of the side wall (62), the top wall (64), the front wall (66), and the rear wall (68). The socket (88) provides a connection between the vehicle side wire (54) and the at least one battery (20) (best visible in Figure 1 and Figure 2). Thus, during a battery charging state, the first end (92) of the socket side wire (52) is connected to an external power source, the second end (94) of the socket side wire (52) is connected to the charger unit (50), the fourth end (100) vehicle side wire (54) is connected to the charger unit (50) and the third end (98) of the vehicle side wire (54) is connected to the socket (88). However, when the third end (98) of the vehicle side wire (54) is not connected to the socket (88) (for example, when the battery (20) is not being charged), access to the socket (88) may be restricted by the socket lid (112), as best seen from Figure 11. In Figure 11, the socket lid (112) is shown to be attached to the socket (88), restricting connection of the vehicle side wire (54) to the socket (88) while in Figure 3, Figure 4 and the socket lid (112) is detached from the socket (88) thus, allowing connection of the vehicle side wire (54) to the socket (88).

[090] Now referring to Figure 2, Figure 3, Figure 7 and Figure 11, in an embodiment of the invention, the compartment (42) receives the charger unit (50) such that the casing (56) faces the top wall (64) and the handle (58) faces away from the top wall (64) and towards a bottom portion (114) of the compartment (42). The compartment (42) furthermore receives the socket side wire (52), which is located in the bottom portion (114), below the charger unit (50).

[091] Now referring to Figure 4 and Figure 7, to securely hold the charger unit (50), the compartment (42) comprises at least one protrusion (74) extending from the side wall (62). The at least one protrusion (74) slidably receives the charger unit (50). The at least one protrusion (74) furthermore restricts movement of the charger unit (50) towards the bottom portion (114) of the compartment (42). By way of a non-limiting example, the at least one protrusion (74) comprises a sloped surface (82) adapted to come in contact and guide the charger unit (50).

[092] Once again referring to Figure 4 and Figure 7, the compartment (42) may further comprise a first movement restricting structure (76) extending from the front wall (66). The first movement restricting structure (76) restricts movement of the charger unit (50) towards the front wall (66). The first movement restricting structure (76) furthermore holds the charger unit (50) at a distance from the front wall (66). By way of anon-limiting example, the first movement restricting structure (76) may be in the form of a stepped structure extending from the front wall (66) surface.

[093] Once again referring to Figure 4 and Figure 7, the compartment (42) may further comprise a second movement restricting structure (78) extending from the rear wall (68). The second movement restricting structure (78) is spaced apart from the first movement restricting structure (76) along a length direction of the electric vehicle (10). The second movement restricting structure (78) restricts movement of the charger unit (50) towards the rear wall (68). The second movement restricting structure (78) furthermore holds the charger unit (50) at a distance from the rear wall (68). By way of a non-limiting example, the second movement restricting structure (78) may be in the form of a stepped structure extending from the rear wall (68) surface.

[094] Now referring specifically to Figure 7, the compartment (42) may further comprise a third movement restricting structure (80). The third movement restricting structure (80) restricts movement of the charger unit (50) towards the lid member (72). By way of a non-limiting example, the third movement restricting structure (80) may comprise a first strap member (84) and a second strap member (86) connectable to the first strap member (84). The first strap member (84) and the second strap member (86) comprise a Velcro® like arrangement or a belt like arrangement.

[095] Once again referring to Figure 4 and Figure 7, the compartment (42) may further comprise a fourth movement restricting structure (116) (best seen in Figure 4) extending from the top wall (64). The fourth movement restricting structure (116) restricts movement of the charger unit (50) towards the top wall (64). The fourth movement restricting structure (116) furthermore holds the charger unit (50) at a distance from the top wall (64).

[096] Now referring to Figure 8, Figure 9, and Figure 10, it may be noted that despite the fact that the lid member (72) comprises a locking mechanism (110) (best seen in Figure 5) which retains the lid member (72) in a locked state with respect to the compartment (42), there may be provided a gap (118) (best seen in Figure 10) between the lid member (72) and the compartment (42). The gap (118) would be sufficient to allow one of the socket side wire (52) and the vehicle side wire (54) to traverse into the internal space (70) of the compartment (42). Since the dimension of the first intermediate portion (96) of the socket side wire (52) is less than the dimension of the first end (92) of the socket side wire (52) and the dimension of the second end (94) of the socket side wire (52), if the socket side wire (52) traverses into the internal space (70) of the compartment (42), it cannot be taken out without removing the lid member (72). Similarly, since the dimension of the second intermediate portion (102) of the vehicle side wire (54) is less than the dimension of the third end (98) of the vehicle side wire (54) and the dimension of the fourth end (100) of the vehicle side wire (54), if the vehicle side wire (54) traverses into the internal space (70) of the compartment (42), it cannot be taken out without removing the lid member (72).

[097] An advantage of the invention is that the battery charging device (48) is located on the electric vehicle (10) itself, and hence, a trouble associated with separately carrying the battery charging device (48) is overcome.

[098] Another advantage of the invention is that the battery charging device (48) is located in the compartment (42) located below the at least one seat (36). Thus, a space below the at least one seat (36) (which would otherwise be not used) is effectively used to accommodate the battery charging device (48).

[099] Yet another advantage of the invention is that by locating the compartment (42) on a left-hand side of the electric vehicle (10), there is substantial ease in accessing the compartment (42) and hence, the battery charging device (48) located within the compartment (42).

[0100] Still another advantage of the invention is that the upper cowl element (38) disposed between the at least one seat (36) and the steering handle bar (24) co-operates with a lid member (72) forming part of the compartment (42) to enhance an esthetic appeal of the electric vehicle (10). In particular, positioning the first tip portion (44) of the compartment (42) below upper cowl element (38) in a side view of the electric vehicle and positioning the second tip portion (46) of the compartment (42) rearward of the upper cowl element (38) in a side view of the electric vehicle, an aesthetic appeal of the electric vehicle (10) is substantially enhanced.

[0101] A further advantage of the invention is that the battery charger device (48) is made of at least two units namely a charger unit (50), a socket side wire (52), and a vehicle side wire (54), and at least one of the socket side wire (52) and the vehicle side wire (54) is detachable with respect to the charger unit (50) and the compartment (42) comprises a side wall (62), a top wall (64), a front wall (66) and a rear wall (68) co-operating to define an internal space (70) and a lid member (72) restricting access to the internal space (70) of the compartment (42). Thus, the charger unit (50) is located within the internal space (70), while at least one of the socket side wire (52) and the vehicle side wire (54) can be located on the lid member (72). This allows efficient utilization of the limited internal space (70) available within the compartment (42).

[0102] A furthermore advantage of the invention is that the orientation of the charger unit (50) within the internal space (70) allows efficient utilization of the limited internal space (70) of the compartment (42). Also, locating the socket side wire (52) or the vehicle side wire (54) in the bottom portion (114) of the compartment (42), allows efficient utilization of the limited internal space (70) available within the compartment (42).

[0103] Another advantage of the invention is that access to the internal space (70) of the compartment (42) can be gained only after the locking mechanism (110) is un-locked. Thus, the battery charging device (48) located within the compartment (42) is not susceptible to un-authorized accesses.

[0104] Yet another advantage of the invention is that the charger unit (50) can be easily and more particularly slidably located within the compartment (42). This enhances an ease of locating the charger unit (50) within the compartment (42).

[0105] Yet another advantage of the invention is that the charger unit (50) is not merely placed loosely in the compartment (42). Still another advantage of the invention is that movement of the charger unit (50) within the compartment (42) is prohibited. Thus, vibration of the charger unit (50) within the compartment (42) is prohibited. There is also provided space surrounding the charger unit (50) within the compartment which allows easy removal of the charger unit (50) from the compartment (42). The space surrounding the charger unit (50) is formed by each of the first movement restricting structure (76), the second movement restricting structure (78) and the fourth movement restricting structure (116). Thus, multiple space options are available in which a user can insert a finger or a tool and remove the charger unit (52) from the compartment (42). Also, the user can hold the handle (58) and remove the charger unit (52) from the compartment (42).

[0106] A further advantage of the invention is that the compartment (42) which accommodates the battery charger device (48) also comprises accommodates a socket (88) providing a connection between the vehicle side wire (54) and the at least one battery (20) and a socket lid (112) restricting connection of the vehicle side wire (54) to the socket (88) in a first state. Thus, a level of security is substantially increased and also a level of protection of the socket (88) from foreign contaminants is substantially increased.

[0107] A furthermore advantage of the invention is that the charger unit (50) can be located within the compartment (42) even when the at least one battery (20) is being charged. Thus, a security of the battery charger device (50) is increased.

[0108] Another embodiment of the invention is that at least one protrusion (74), the first movement restricting structure (76), the second movement restricting structure (78), and the fourth movement restricting structure (116) can be fabricated at the time of forming the compartment (42). Thus, a cost of manufacturing the compartment (42) with the at least one protrusion (74), the first movement restricting structure (76), the second movement restricting structure (78), and the fourth movement restricting structure (116) is substantially low. This also allows reducing a cost of the electric vehicle (10).

[0109] While specific language has been used to describe the disclosure, any limitations arising on account of the same are not intended. As would be apparent to a person in the art, various working modifications may be made to the method in order to implement the inventive concept as taught herein.

[0110] The figures and the forgoing description give examples of embodiments. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that one or more of the described elements may well be combined into a single functional element. Alternatively, certain elements may be split into multiple functional elements. Elements from one embodiment may be added to another embodiment. For example, orders of processes described herein may be changed and are not limited to the manner described herein. Moreover, the actions of any flow diagram need not be implemented in the order shown; nor do all of the acts necessarily need to be performed. Also, those acts that are not dependent on other acts may be performed in parallel with the other acts. The scope of embodiments is by no means limited by these specific examples.
, Claims:WE CLAIM:

1. An electric vehicle (10), comprising:
a frame structure (12) supporting at least one ground engaging member (14, 16), a motor (18) supplying driving power to the at least one ground engaging member (14, 16), and at least one battery (20) providing electrical power to the motor (18);
at least one seat (36) providing seating to at least a driver of the vehicle (10), the at least one seat (36) comprising a front tip portion (40);
a compartment (42) supported by the frame structure (12), the compartment (42) comprising a first tip portion (44) and a second tip portion (46), the compartment (42) being located below the at least one seat (36); and
a battery charger device (48) located within the compartment (42).

2. The electric vehicle (10) as claimed in claim 1, wherein at least one of:
the front tip portion (40) of the at least one seat (36) being located between the first tip portion (44) and the second tip portion (46) of the compartment (42);
the compartment (42) being disposed on a left-hand side of the vehicle (10); and
an upper cowl element (38) disposed between the at least one seat (36) and a steering handle bar (24), the first tip portion (44) of the compartment (42) being located below upper cowl element (38) in a side view of the vehicle and the second tip portion (46) of the compartment (42) being located rearward of the upper cowl element (38) in a side view of the vehicle.

3. The electric vehicle (10 ) as claimed in claim 1, wherein at least one of:
the battery charger device (48) comprises:
a charger unit (50);
a socket side wire (52) intended to connecting the charger unit (50) to an AC power outlet;
a vehicle side wire (54) intended to connecting the charger unit (24) to the at least one battery (20);
one of the socket side wire (52) and the vehicle side wire (54) being detachable with respect to the charger unit (50); and
the charger unit (50) comprising a casing (56) and a handle (58) spaced apart from the casing (56); and
the compartment (42) comprises:
a side wall (62), a top wall (64) extending from the side wall (62), a front wall (66) extending from the side wall (62), and a rear wall (68) extending from the side wall (62);
the compartment (42) receiving the charger unit (50) such that the casing (56) faces the top wall (64) and the handle (58) faces away from the top wall (64) and towards a bottom portion (114) of the compartment (42);
the side wall (62), the top wall (64), the front wall (66) and the rear wall (68) co-operating to define an internal space (70);
a lid member (72) restricting access to the internal space (70) of the compartment (42) in a first state and allowing access to the internal space (70) of the compartment (42) in a second state;
the lid member (72) comprising a locking mechanism (110) to lock the lid member (72) with respect to the compartment (42).

4. The electric vehicle (10) as claimed in claim 3, wherein the compartment (42) comprising at least one of:
at least one protrusion (74) extending from the side wall (62), the at least one protrusion (74) slidably receiving the charger unit (50);
a first movement restricting structure (76) extending from the front wall (66), the first movement restricting structure (76) restricting movement of the charger unit (50) towards the front wall (66);
a second movement restricting structure (78) extending from the rear wall (68), the second movement restricting structure (78) being spaced apart from the first movement restricting structure (76), the second movement restricting structure (78) restricting movement of the charger unit (50) towards the rear wall (68);
a third movement restricting structure (80) restricting movement of the charger unit (50) towards the lid member (72); and
a fourth movement restricting structure (116) extending from the top wall (64), the fourth movement restricting structure (116) restricting movement of the charger unit (50) towards the top wall (64) and holding the charger unit (50) at a distance from the top wall (64).

5. The electric vehicle (10) as claimed in claim 4, wherein the compartment (42) comprising at least one of:
the at least one protrusion (74) comprises a sloped surface (82) adapted to come in contact and guide the charger unit (50);
the first movement restricting structure (76) being a stepped structure extending from the front wall (66) surface;
the second movement restricting structure (78) being a stepped structure extending from the rear wall (68) surface;
the third movement restricting structure (80) comprising a first strap member (84) and a second strap member (86) connectable to the first strap member (84).

6. The electric vehicle (10) as claimed in claim 3, wherein the compartment (42) comprising a socket (88) disposed on one of the side wall (62), the top wall (64), the front wall (66), and the rear wall (68), the socket (88) providing a connection between the vehicle side wire (54) and the at least one battery (20); and a socket lid (112) restricting connection of the vehicle side wire (54) to the socket (88) in a first state and allowing connection of the vehicle side wire (54) to the socket (88) in a second state.

7. The electric vehicle (10) as claimed in claim 3, wherein the bottom portion (114) of the compartment (42) accommodates at least one of the socket side wire (52) and the vehicle side wire (54).

8. The electric vehicle (10) as claimed in claim 7, wherein at least one of:
the socket side wire (52) comprises a first end (92) connectable to an external power source, a second end (94) connectable to the charger unit (50), and a first intermediate portion (96) positioned between the first end (92) and the second end (94);
the vehicle side wire (54) comprises a third end (98) connectable to the socket (88), a fourth end (100) connectable to the charger unit (50), and a second intermediate portion (102) positioned between the third end (98) and the fourth end (100);
a dimension of the first intermediate portion (96) being less than a dimension of the first end (92) and the second end (94); and
a dimension of the second intermediate portion (102) being less than a dimension of the third end (98) and the fourth end (100).

9. The electric vehicle (10) as claimed in claim 3, wherein the compartment (42) comprising a first mounting provision (104) protruding from the top wall (64), a second mounting provision (106) protruding from the rear wall (68), and a third mounting provision (108) formed on the side wall (62), the compartment (42) being coupled to the frame structure (12) vide the first mounting provision (104), the second mounting provision (106), and the third mounting provision (108).