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 charged, 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 port which serves as an interface between the one or more batteries carried by the vehicle and an external charging source, such as a charging gun or a charging cable. 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.

[04] Typically, shape and size of the battery charging port is standardized for compatibility with charging guns/cables, ensuring that it can accommodate a wide range of charging equipment. Also, the battery charging port is commonly found near a rear end of the vehicle. However, there are a lot of challenges in locating the battery charging port near the rear end of the vehicle. Since the at one or more battery is generally located close to the center of gravity of the vehicle, locating the battery charging port near the rear end of the vehicle increases a distance between the battery charging port and the one or more battery.

[05] Additionally, the battery charging port has to be located in an area which is generally protected from dust, water, and other environmental elements. To attain the above, a separate compartment having a removable lid is typically disposed near the rear end of the vehicle and the battery charging port is located within. However, by locating the battery charging port within the compartment having the removable lid, an ease of accessing the battery charging port is reduced.

[06] In some instances, indicator lights are often included to provide visual cues about the charging status. This may include indicating whether the vehicle is charging, fully charged, or if there is an issue with the charging process. By locating the battery charging port within the compartment having the removable lid, a substantial difficulty would be faced in viewing the visual cues.

[07] Additionally, when battery charging port is provided between handlebar and seating unit of vehicle, there is additional storage compartment near it which require separate lid. Providing separate lid for charging port and the additional storage compartment becomes costly.

[08] Last, but not the least, the battery charging port has to located in an easily accessible region of the vehicle, without compromising on the esthetic value of the vehicle.

[09] Thus, there exists a need to address at least one of the difficulties as mentioned above in effectively locating the battery charging port in relation to the vehicle.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION:
[010] 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.

[011] Accordingly, the present invention provides an electric vehicle, comprising: a frame structure rotatably supporting at least a front ground engaging member, at least one rear ground engaging member and at least one battery. In an embodiment of the invention, the front ground engaging member is coupled to a handlebar vide a front fork. In an embodiment of the invention, the frame structure comprises a head pipe rotatably receiving the handlebar. In an embodiment of the invention the electric vehicle further comprises a seat unit supported by the frame structure. In an embodiment of the invention the electric vehicle further comprises a utility box located between the handlebar and the seat unit in a vehicle length direction. In an embodiment of the invention, the utility box is disposed above the frame structure. In an embodiment of the invention, the utility box comprises a container defining a first space and a second space, a first lid member pivotally connected to the container and being adapted to exhibit pivotal movement to attain a first state restricting access to the first space and the second space and attain a second state providing access to the first space and the second space, and a second lid member held slidably with respect to the first lid member to attain a third state restricting access to the second space and attain a fourth state providing access to the second space. In an embodiment of the invention, the electric vehicle further comprises a battery charger port positioned in the second space.

[012] In another embodiment of the invention, the container comprises a partition wall separating the first space and the second space.

[013] In yet another embodiment of the invention, the partition wall projects from a bottom surface of the container in a vehicle height direction.

[014] In still another embodiment of the invention, the battery charger port is located on the bottom surface of the container.

[015] In a further embodiment of the invention, the first lid member comprises a first opening which is obstructed by the second lid member in a top view in the third state.

[016] In a furthermore embodiment of the invention, an underside of the first lid member comprises a first railing structure proximate to a first edge of the first opening and a second railing structure proximate to a second edge of the first opening.

[017] In an embodiment of the invention, the first railing structure and the second railing structure project along a sliding direction of the second lid member.

[018] In another embodiment of the invention, the first railing structure receives and guides a third edge of the second lid member and the second railing structure receives and guides a fourth edge of the second lid member.

[019] In yet another embodiment of the invention, the underside of the first lid member comprises a first stopper wall and a second stopper wall.

[020] In still another embodiment of the invention, the first stopper wall stops the second lid member from moving beyond a first predetermined portion in a first direction, and the second stopper wall stops the second lid member from moving beyond a second predetermined portion in a second direction.

[021] In a further embodiment of the invention, the first railing structure comprises a first latching mechanism.

[022] In a furthermore embodiment of the invention, the third edge of the second lid member comprises a first counter latching mechanism.

[023] In an embodiment of the invention, the second railing structure comprises a second latching mechanism.

[024] In another embodiment of the invention, the fourth edge of the second lid member comprises a second counter latching mechanism.

[025] In yet another embodiment of the invention, the first latching mechanism co-operates with the first counter latching mechanism to retain the second lid member in the third sate with respect to the first lid member.

[026] In still another embodiment of the invention, the second latching mechanism co-operates with the second counter latching mechanism to retain the second lid member in the third sate with respect to the first lid member.

[027] In a further embodiment of the invention, the utility box comprises a resilient member acting upon the second lid member to move the second lid member from the fourth state to the third state.

[028] In a furthermore embodiment of the invention, the utility box comprises a third lid member attached to an upper side of the first lid member, the first lid member comprising the first opening and the third lid member comprising a second opening, the second lid member obstructing the first opening and the second opening in a top view.

[029] In an embodiment of the invention, an upper side of the first lid member comprises a third railing structure proximate to a first edge of the first opening and a fourth railing structure proximate to a second edge of the first opening.

[030] In another embodiment of the invention, the third railing structure and the fourth railing structure projects along a sliding direction of the second lid member.

[031] In yet another embodiment of the invention, the third railing structure receives and guides a third edge of the second lid member and the fourth railing structure receives and guides a fourth edge of the second lid member.

[032] In still another embodiment of the invention, an underside of the third lid member comprises a fifth railing structure proximate to a fifth edge of the second opening and a sixth railing structure proximate to a sixth edge of the second opening.

[033] In a further embodiment of the invention, the fifth railing structure and the sixth railing structure project along a sliding direction of the second lid member.

[034] In a furthermore embodiment of the invention, the fifth railing structure receives and guides a third edge of the second lid member and the sixth railing structure receives and guides a fourth edge of the second lid member.

[035] In an embodiment of the invention, the upper side of the first lid member comprises a third stopper wall and a fourth stopper wall.

[036] In another embodiment of the invention, the third stopper wall stops the second lid member from moving beyond a first predetermined portion in a first direction, and the fourth stopper wall stops the second lid member from moving beyond a second predetermined portion in a second direction.

[037] In yet another embodiment of the invention, the underside of the third lid member comprises a fifth stopper wall and a sixth stopper wall, the fifth stopper wall stops the second lid member from moving beyond a first predetermined portion in a first direction, and the sixth stopper wall stops the second lid member from moving beyond a second predetermined portion in a second direction.

[038] In still another embodiment of the invention, the third railing structure comprises a third latching mechanism and the third edge of the second lid member comprises a first counter latching mechanism.

[039] In a furthermore embodiment of the invention, the third latching mechanism co-operates with the first counter latching mechanism to retain the second lid member in the third sate with respect to the first lid member.

[040] In an embodiment of the invention, the fourth railing structure comprises a fourth latching mechanism and the fourth edge of the second lid member comprises a second counter latching mechanism.

[041] In another embodiment of the invention, the fourth latching mechanism co-operates with the second counter latching mechanism to retain the second lid member in the third sate with respect to the first lid member.

[042] In yet another embodiment of the invention, the fifth railing structure comprises a fifth latching mechanism and the third edge of the second lid member comprises a first counter latching mechanism.

[043] In still another embodiment of the invention, the fifth latching mechanism co-operates with the first counter latching mechanism to retain the second lid member in the third sate with respect to the first lid member.

[044] In a further embodiment of the invention, the sixth railing structure comprises a sixth latching mechanism and the fourth edge of the second lid member comprises a second counter latching mechanism.

[045] In a furthermore embodiment of the invention, the sixth latching mechanism co-operates with the second counter latching mechanism to retain the second lid member in the third sate with respect to the first lid member.

[046] Since the at one or more battery is located close to the center of gravity of the vehicle and since, the battery charging port is located within the utility box which is located between the handlebar and the seat unit, a distance between the battery charging port and the one or more battery is substantially less.

[047] Since the battery charging port is located within the utility box, the need to provide a separate compartment is totally avoided.

[048] The utility box located between the handlebar and the seat unit is substantially protected from dust, water, and other environmental elements as compared to the rear end of the vehicle and hence, the battery charging port is also substantially protected from dust, water, and other environmental elements as compared to the rear end of the vehicle.

[049] Since the utility box comprises the container defining the first space and the second space, the first lid member, and the second lid member restricting access to the first space and the second space and providing access to the first space and the second space, and since the battery charger port positioned in the second space, the battery charging port is furthermore protected from dust, water, and other environmental elements as compared to the rear end of the vehicle and any item stored in the first space is also safe by means of a partition wall provided inside the container.

[050] Also, an ease of accessing the battery charging port is substantially increased for the reason that it is not essential to move the first lid member from the first state to the second state. In fact, it is merely sufficient to move the second lid member from the third state to the fourth state.

[051] A furthermore advantage of the invention is that since the second lid member is held slidably with respect to the first lid member, there is substantial ease in operating the second lid member and to allow or restrict access to the second space.

[052] Since, neither of the first lid member and the second lid member is removable with regard to the compartment, an ease of accessing the battery charging port is furthermore enhanced.

[053] Since the second lid member is retained in the fourth state providing access to the second space when the charging gun or the charging cable is connected to the battery charging port, it would be easy to observe the visual cues provided by indicator lights about the charging status.

[054] Since the battery charging port is covered by the second lid member, when the charging gun or the charging cable is not connected to the battery charging port, an esthetic value of the vehicle is substantially increased.

[055] 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:
[056] 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:

[057] Figure 1 illustrates a side view of the electric vehicle in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[058] Figure 2 illustrates an exploded perspective view of the utility box comprising the first lid member and the second lid member in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[059] Figure 3 illustrates a perspective top view of the first lid member and the second lid member as shown in Figure 2 in an attached state in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[060] Figure 4 illustrates an exploded perspective view of the utility box in accordance with another embodiment of the invention.

[061] Figure 5 illustrates an exploded perspective view of the utility box comprising the first lid member, the second lid member, and the third lid member in accordance with yet another embodiment of the invention.

[062] Figure 6 illustrates a perspective top view of the first lid member, the second lid member, and the third lid member as shown in Figure 5 in an attached state in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[063] Figure 7 illustrates an exploded perspective view of the utility box comprising the first lid member, the second lid member, and the third lid member in accordance with still another embodiment of the invention.

[064] Figure 8 illustrates a perspective top view of the third lid member as shown in Figure 7 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[065] Figure 9 illustrates a perspective top view of the vehicle showing the second lid member in the third state restricting access to the second space in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[066] Figure 10 illustrates a perspective top view of the vehicle showing the second lid member in the fourth state permitting access to the second space and the battery charging port in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[067] Figure 11 illustrates a perspective top view of the vehicle showing the second lid member in the fourth state permitting access to the second space and the battery charging port being connected to the external charging source, such as a charging gun or a charging cable in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[068] 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:
[069] 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.

[070] 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.

[071] 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.

[072] 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.

[073] 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.

[074] 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.

[075] 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.

[076] 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.

[077] 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.

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

[079] 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.

[080] 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.

[081] Referring to Figure 1 there is illustrated an electric vehicle (10). The electric vehicle (10) comprises, inter-alia, a frame structure (16) rotatably supporting at least one front ground engaging member (12) and at least one rear ground engaging member (14). In an embodiment of the invention, the at least one front ground engaging member (12) is coupled to a handlebar (18) vide a front fork (20). The frame structure (16) comprises a head pipe (22) rotatably receiving the handlebar (18). Using the handlebar (18), the at least one front ground engaging member (12) may be steered. The vehicle (10) further comprises a head light (24) and a rear light (26) which is supported by the frame structure (16).

[082] The vehicle (10) further comprises a motor (30) that supplies a driving power to at least one of the front ground engaging member (12) and the rear ground engaging member (14). The motor (30) is supported by the frame structure (16). The vehicle (10) further comprises a seat unit (32) supported by the frame structure (16). The vehicle (10) further comprises a utility box (34) located between the handlebar (18) and the seat unit (32) in a vehicle length direction. The utility box (34) is disposed above and supported by the frame structure (16). The vehicle (10) further comprises at least one battery (50) that provides electrical power to the motor (30). The vehicle (10) further comprises a battery charging port (120) which is disposed within the utility box (34). The battery charging port (120) serves as an interface between the one or more batteries (50) carried by the vehicle (10) and an external charging source (118), such as a charging gun or a charging cable, best visible in Figure 11.

[083] Referring to Figure 2 there is illustrated an exploded view of the utility box (34). The utility box (34) typically comprises a container (36) defining a first space (38) and a second space (40). The utility box (34) further comprises a first lid member (42) pivotally connected to the container (36) and being adapted to exhibit pivotal movement to attain a first state restricting access to the first space (38) and the second space (40) and attain a second state providing access to the first space (38) and the second space (40). The utility box (34) further comprises a second lid member (44) held slidably with respect to the first lid member (42) to attain a third state restricting access to the second space (40) and attain a fourth state providing access to the second space (40). It can be seen from Figure 2 that the battery charger port (120) is particularly positioned in the second space (40). In case, the battery charger port (120) is particularly positioned in the first space (38), access to the battery charging port (120) can be gained only by pivotally moving the first lid member (42) between the first state and the second state. On the other hand, if the battery charger port (120) is particularly positioned in the second space (40), access to the battery charging port (120) can be gained not only by pivotally moving the first lid member (42) between the first state and the second state but also by sliding the second lid member (44) with respect to the first lid member (42) between the third state and the fourth state.

[084] To provision for the first space (38) and the second space (40) within the container (36), the container (36) comprises a partition wall (46) separating the first space (38) from the second space (40). By way of a non-limiting example, the partition wall (46) may project in a vehicle height direction from a bottom surface (48) of the container (36). However, it may be noted that the first space (38) may be separated from the second space (40) by other techniques and not only restricted to providing the partition wall (46) projecting in a vehicle height direction from the bottom surface (48) of the container (36).

[085] By way of a non-limiting example, the battery charger port (120) may be located on the bottom surface (48) of the container (36). However, it may be noted that the battery charger port (120) may also be located on the partition wall (46). Furthermore, it may be noted that the battery charger port (120) may also be located on any of the peripheral wall (not numbered) of the container (36).

[086] In an embodiment of the invention, the first lid member (42) comprises a first opening (52). The first opening (52) overlaps at least partly with the second space (40) in a top view of the vehicle (10). It can also be observed that the second lid member (44) obstructs the first opening (52) in a top view of the vehicle (10), when the second lid member (44) is in the third state. On the other hand, the second lid member (44) does not obstruct the first opening (52) in a top view of the vehicle (10), when the second lid member (44) is in the fourth state. Due to this reason, it is said that the second lid member (44) restricts access to second space (40) in the third state and allows access to the second space (40) in the fourth state.

[087] It may be noted that the second lid member (44) slides with respect to first lid member (42) and more particularly with respect to the first opening (52) provided in the first lid member (42) between the third state and the fourth state and vice-versa. By way of a non-limiting example, the second lid member (44) slides in a vehicle length direction with respect to first lid member (42), which may be referred to as the sliding direction of the second lid member (44). It may however, be noted that in an alternative embodiment which is not illustrated, the second lid member (44) slides in a vehicle width direction with respect to first lid member (42).

[088] Now referring particularly to Figure 3, it may be noted that to enhance an ease of sliding of the second lid member (44) with respect to the first lid member (42), an underside (54) of the first lid member (42) may comprise a first railing structure (56) and a second railing structure (60). Preferably, the first railing structure (56) may be provided proximate to a first edge (58) of the first opening (52) and the second railing structure (60) may be proximate to a second edge (62) of the first opening (52). The first railing structure (56) and the second railing structure (60) project along the sliding direction of the second lid member (44).

[089] It may be noted that the second lid member (44) comprises a third edge (64) and a fourth edge (66) opposing the third edge (64). The third edge (64) of the second lid member (44) and the fourth edge (66) of the second lid member (44) project along the sliding direction of the second lid member (44). The third edge (64) of the second lid member (44) is received by the first railing structure (56) while the fourth edge (66) of the second lid member (44) is received by the second railing structure (60). Thus, the first railing structure (56) receives and guides the third edge (64) of the second lid member (44) and the second railing structure (60) receives and guides the fourth edge (66) of the second lid member (44).

[090] In an embodiment of the invention, the underside (54) of the first lid member (42) comprises a first stopper wall (68) and a second stopper wall (70). The first stopper wall (68) projects along the sliding direction. The second stopper wall (70) also projects along the sliding direction but opposes the first stopper wall (68). The first stopper wall (68) and the second stopper wall (70) define the space within which the second lid member (44) is allowed to slide. In particular, the first stopper wall (68) stops the second lid member (44) from moving beyond a first predetermined portion in the sliding direction, and the second stopper wall (70) stops the second lid member (44) from moving beyond a second predetermined portion in the sliding direction.

[091] In an embodiment of the invention, the first railing structure (56) comprises a first latching mechanism (72) and the second railing structure (60) comprises a second latching mechanism (76). The third edge (64) of the second lid member (44) comprises a first counter latching mechanism (74) and the fourth edge (66) of the second lid member (44) comprises a second counter latching mechanism (78). The first latching mechanism (72) co-operates with the first counter latching mechanism (74) and the second latching mechanism (74) co-operates with the second counter latching mechanism (78) to retain the second lid member (44) in the third sate with respect to the first lid member (42). Thus, the first latching mechanism (72), the first counter latching mechanism (74), the second latching mechanism (74), and the second counter latching mechanism (78) does not allow the second lid member (44) to exhibit un-intended movement within the first railing structure (56) and the second railing structure (60).

[092] In an embodiment of the invention, the utility box (34) comprises a resilient member (80). The resilient member (80) acts upon the second lid member (44) to move the second lid member (44) from the fourth state to the third state. Thus, the resilient member (80) prohibits the second lid member (44) from exhibiting un-intended movement within the first railing structure (56) and the second railing structure (60). Additionally, the resilient member (80) forces the second lid member (44) towards the third state. This provides an added level of protection against dust, water, and other environmental elements.

[093] While in Figure 2 and Figure 3, the utility box (34) is shown to comprise the first lid member (42) and the second lid member (44), in an alternative embodiment of the invention, as shown in Figure 4, the utility box (34) may instead comprise of the first lid member (42), the second lid member (44), and a third lid member (82). The third lid member (82) is attached to an upper side (84) of the first lid member (42). The third lid member (82) comprises a second opening (86). Once the third lid member (82) has been attached to the first lid member (42), the second opening (86) in the third lid member (82) overlaps at least partly with first opening (52) in the first lid member (42) as well as the second space (40) in a top view of the vehicle (10). In particular, the second opening (86) is positioned between a fifth edge (96) and a sixth edge (100). In an embodiment of the invention, the fifth edge (96) of the second opening (86) in the third lid member (82) is parallel to the first edge (58) of the first opening (52) in the first lid member (42). In an embodiment of the invention, the sixth edge (100) of the second opening (86) in the third lid member (82) is parallel to the second edge (62) of the first opening (52) in the first lid member (42). By way of a non-limiting example, the fifth edge (96) of the second opening (86) in the third lid member (82) overlaps the first edge (58) of the first opening (52) in the first lid member (42) in a top view of the vehicle (10). In an embodiment of the invention, the sixth edge (100) of the second opening (86) in the third lid member (82) overlaps the second edge (62) of the first opening (52) in the first lid member (42) in a top view of the vehicle (10). Construction of the first lid member (42) and the second lid member (44) as shown in Figure 4, is substantially similar to the construction of the first lid member (42) and the second lid member (44) as shown in Figure 2 and Figure 3. Also, in this case, the second lid member (44) is attached to the underside (54) of the first lid member (42) using the same mechanism as described above in relation to Figure 2 and Figure 3.

[094] While Figure 4 shows the utility box (34) comprising the first lid member (42), the second lid member (44), and the third lid member (82), with the second lid member (44) being attached to the underside (54) of the first lid (42) and the third lid member being attached to the upper side (84) of the first lid member (42), in an alternative construction as shown in Figure 5 and Figure 6, both the third lid member (82) and the second lid member (44) may be connected to the upper side (84) of the first lid member (42).

[095] Now referring particularly to Figure 5 and Figure 6, it may be noted that to enhance an ease of sliding of the second lid member (44) with respect to the first lid member (42), the upper side (84) of the first lid member (42) may comprise a third railing structure (88) and a fourth railing structure (90). Preferably, the third railing structure (88) may be provided proximate to the first edge (58) of the first opening (52) and the fourth railing structure (90) may be proximate to the second edge (62) of the first opening (52). The third railing structure (88) and the fourth railing structure (90) project along the sliding direction of the second lid member (44).

[096] In this case, the third edge (64) of the second lid member (44) is received by the third railing structure (88) while the fourth edge (66) of the second lid member (44) is received by the fourth railing structure (90). Thus, the third railing structure (88) receives and guides the third edge (64) of the second lid member (44) and the fourth railing structure (90) receives and guides the fourth edge (66) of the second lid member (44).

[097] In an embodiment of the invention, the upper side (84) of the first lid member (42) comprises a third stopper wall (102) and a fourth stopper wall (104). The third stopper wall (102) projects along the sliding direction. The fourth stopper wall (104) also projects along the sliding direction but opposes the third stopper wall (102). The third stopper wall (102) and the fourth stopper wall (104) define the space within which the second lid member (44) is allowed to slide. In particular, the third stopper wall (102) stops the second lid member (44) from moving beyond a first predetermined portion in the sliding direction, and the fourth stopper wall (104) stops the second lid member (44) from moving beyond a second predetermined portion in the sliding direction.

[098] In an embodiment of the invention, the third railing structure (88) comprises a third latching mechanism (110) and the fourth railing structure (90) comprises a fourth latching mechanism (112). The third edge (64) of the second lid member (44) comprises the first counter latching mechanism (74) and the fourth edge (66) of the second lid member (44) comprises the second counter latching mechanism (78). The third latching mechanism (110) co-operates with the first counter latching mechanism (74) and the fourth latching mechanism (112) co-operates with the second counter latching mechanism (78) to retain the second lid member (44) in the third sate with respect to the first lid member (42). Thus, the third latching mechanism (110), the first counter latching mechanism (74), the fourth latching mechanism (112), and the second counter latching mechanism (78) does not allow the second lid member (44) to exhibit un-intended movement within the third railing structure (88) and the fourth railing structure (90).

[099] In an embodiment of the invention, the utility box (34) comprises the resilient member (80). The resilient member (80) is positioned on the upper side (84) of the first lid member (42) and acts upon the second lid member (44) to move the second lid member (44) from the fourth state to the third state. Thus, the resilient member (80) prohibits the second lid member (44) from exhibiting un-intended movement within the third railing structure (88) and the fourth railing structure (90). Additionally, the resilient member (80) forces the second lid member (44) towards the third state. This provides an added level of protection against dust, water, and other environmental elements.

[0100] The third lid member (82) is attached to the upper side (84) of the first lid member (42). The third lid member (82) comprises the second opening (86). Once the third lid member (82) has been attached to the first lid member (42), the second opening (86) in the third lid member (82) overlaps at least partly with first opening (52) in the first lid member (42) as well as the second space (40) in a top view of the vehicle (10). In particular, the second opening (86) is positioned between the fifth edge (96) and the sixth edge (100). In an embodiment of the invention, the fifth edge (96) of the second opening (86) in the third lid member (82) is parallel to the first edge (58) of the first opening (52) in the first lid member (42). In an embodiment of the invention, the sixth edge (100) of the second opening (86) in the third lid member (82) is parallel to the second edge (62) of the first opening (52) in the first lid member (42). By way of a non-limiting example, the fifth edge (96) of the second opening (86) in the third lid member (82) overlaps the first edge (58) of the first opening (52) in the first lid member (42) in a top view of the vehicle (10). In an embodiment of the invention, the sixth edge (100) of the second opening (86) in the third lid member (82) overlaps the second edge (62) of the first opening (52) in the first lid member (42) in a top view of the vehicle (10).

[0101] It may be noted that instead of the second lid member (44) being attached to the first lid member (42), in an alternative construction as shown in Figure 7 and Figure 8, the second lid member (44) may be connected to an upper side (92) of the third lid member (82).

[0102] Once again in this case, the underside (92) of the third lid member (82) is attached to the upper side (84) of the first lid member (42). The third lid member (82) comprises the second opening (86). Once the third lid member (82) has been attached to the first lid member (42), the second opening (86) in the third lid member (82) overlaps at least partly with first opening (52) in the first lid member (42) as well as the second space (40) in a top view of the vehicle (10). In particular, the second opening (86) is positioned between the fifth edge (96) and the sixth edge (100). In an embodiment of the invention, the fifth edge (96) of the second opening (86) in the third lid member (82) is parallel to the first edge (58) of the first opening (52) in the first lid member (42). In an embodiment of the invention, the sixth edge (100) of the second opening (86) in the third lid member (82) is parallel to the second edge (62) of the first opening (52) in the first lid member (42). By way of a non-limiting example, the fifth edge (96) of the second opening (86) in the third lid member (82) overlaps the first edge (58) of the first opening (52) in the first lid member (42) in a top view of the vehicle (10). In an embodiment of the invention, the sixth edge (100) of the second opening (86) in the third lid member (82) overlaps the second edge (62) of the first opening (52) in the first lid member (42) in a top view of the vehicle (10).

[0103] It may be noted that to enhance an ease of sliding of the second lid member (44) with respect to the first lid member (42) as well as the third lid member (82), the underside (92) of the third lid member (82) may comprise a fifth railing structure (94) and a sixth railing structure (98). Preferably, the fifth railing structure (94) may be provided proximate to the fifth edge (96) of the second opening (86) and the sixth railing structure (98) may be provided proximate to the sixth edge (100) of the second opening (86). The fifth railing structure (94) and the sixth railing structure (98) project along the sliding direction of the second lid member (44).

[0104] In this case, the third edge (64) of the second lid member (44) is received by the fifth railing structure (94) while the fourth edge (66) of the second lid member (44) is received by the sixth railing structure (98). Thus, the fifth railing structure (94) receives and guides the third edge (64) of the second lid member (44) and the sixth railing structure (98) receives and guides the fourth edge (66) of the second lid member (44).

[0105] In an embodiment of the invention, the underside (92) of the third lid member (82) comprises a fifth stopper wall (106) and a sixth stopper wall (108). The fifth stopper wall (106) projects along the sliding direction. The sixth stopper wall (108) also projects along the sliding direction but opposes the fifth stopper wall (106). The fifth stopper wall (106) and the sixth stopper wall (108) define the space within which the second lid member (44) is allowed to slide. In particular, the fifth stopper wall (106) stops the second lid member (44) from moving beyond a first predetermined portion in the sliding direction, and the sixth stopper wall (108) stops the second lid member (44) from moving beyond a second predetermined portion in the sliding direction.

[0106] In an embodiment of the invention, the fifth railing structure (94) comprises a fifth latching mechanism (114) and the sixth railing structure (98) comprises a sixth latching mechanism (116). The third edge (64) of the second lid member (44) comprises the first counter latching mechanism (74) and the fourth edge (66) of the second lid member (44) comprises the second counter latching mechanism (78). The fifth latching mechanism (114) co-operates with the first counter latching mechanism (74) and the sixth latching mechanism (116) co-operates with the second counter latching mechanism (78) to retain the second lid member (44) in the third sate with respect to the first lid member (42). Thus, the fifth latching mechanism (114), the first counter latching mechanism (74), the sixth latching mechanism (116), and the second counter latching mechanism (78) does not allow the second lid member (44) to exhibit un-intended movement within the fifth railing structure (94) and the sixth railing structure (98).

[0107] In an embodiment of the invention, the utility box (34) comprises the resilient member (80). The resilient member (80) is positioned on the underside (92) of the third lid member (82) and acts upon the second lid member (44) to move the second lid member (44) from the fourth state to the third state. Thus, the resilient member (80) prohibits the second lid member (44) from exhibiting un-intended movement within the fifth railing structure (94) and the sixth railing structure (98). Additionally, the resilient member (80) forces the second lid member (44) towards the third state. This provides an added level of protection against dust, water, and other environmental elements.

[0108] Now referring to Figure 9, and Figure 10, there is illustrated a perspective top view of the vehicle (10) showing the second lid member (44) in the third state restricting access to the second space (40) in accordance with an embodiment of the invention and showing the second lid member (44) being in the fourth state permitting access to the second space (40) and the battery charging port (120) in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. The second lid member (44) may be slidably moved in the sliding direction shown by the first arrow (D1) to attain the fourth state. As mentioned above, the resilient member (80) applies a restoring force on the second lid member (44) which is opposite to the first arrow (D1) to bring the second lid member (44) back to the third state.

[0109] Now referring to Figure 11, there is illustrated a perspective top view of the vehicle showing the second lid member (44) in the fourth state permitting access to the second space (40) and the battery charging port (120) being connected to the external charging source (118), such as a charging gun or a charging cable in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. It may be noted that when the external charging source (118), such as a charging gun or a charging cable is connected to the battery charging port (120), it becomes possible to charge the one or more batteries (50) carried by the vehicle (10) without requiring removal of the one or more batteries (50) from the vehicle (10).

[0110] Since the at one or more battery (50) is located close to the center of gravity of the vehicle (10) and since, the battery charging port (120) is located within the utility box (34) which is located between the handlebar (18) and the seat unit (32), a distance between the battery charging port (120) and the one or more battery (50) is substantially less.

[0111] Since the battery charging port (120) is located within the utility box (34), the need to provide a separate compartment is totally avoided. Apart from accommodating the battery charging port (120), the utility box (34) can accommodate one or more vehicular components or one or more user articles.

[0112] The utility box (34) is substantially protected from dust, water, and other environmental elements as compared to the rear end of the vehicle (10) and hence, the battery charging port (120) is also substantially protected from dust, water, and other environmental elements as compared to being located at about the rear end of the vehicle (10).

[0113] Since the utility box (34) comprises the container (36) defining the first space (38) and the second space (40), the first lid member (42), and the second lid member (44) and optionally the third lid member (82) restricting access to the first space (38) and the second space (40) and providing access to the first space (38) and the second space (40), and since the battery charger port (120) positioned in the second space (40), the battery charging port (120) is furthermore protected from dust, water, and other environmental elements as compared to being located at about the rear end of the vehicle (10).

[0114] Also, an ease of accessing the battery charging port (120) is substantially increased for the reason that it is not essential to move the first lid member (42) from the first state to the second state. In fact, it is merely sufficient to move the second lid member (44) from the third state to the fourth state.

[0115] A furthermore advantage of the invention is that since the second lid member (44) is held slidably with respect to the first lid member (42), there is substantial ease in operating the second lid member (44) and to allow or restrict access to the second space (40).

[0116] Since, neither of the first lid member (42) and the second lid member (44) is removable with regard to the compartment (36), an ease of accessing the battery charging port (120) is furthermore enhanced.

[0117] Since the second lid member (44) is retained in the fourth state providing access to the second space (40) when the charging gun or the charging cable is connected to the battery charging port (120), it would be easy to observe the visual cues provided by indicator lights about the charging status.

[0118] Since the battery charging port (120) is covered by the second lid member (44), when the charging gun or the charging cable is not connected to the battery charging port, an esthetic value of the vehicle (10) is substantially increased.

[0119] 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.

[0120] 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 (16) rotatably supporting at least a front ground engaging member (12) and at least one rear ground engaging member (14) and at least one battery (50), the front ground engaging member (12) being coupled to a handlebar (18) vide a front fork (20);
the frame structure (16) comprising a head pipe (22) rotatably receiving the handlebar (18);
a seat unit (32) supported by the frame structure (16) of the vehicle (10);
a utility box (34) located between the handlebar (18) and the seat unit (32) in a vehicle length direction, the utility box (34) being disposed above the frame structure (16) and comprising a container (36) defining a first space (38) and a second space (40), a first lid member (42) pivotally connected to the container (36) and being adapted to exhibit pivotal movement to attain a first state restricting access to the first space (38) and the second space (40) and attain a second state providing access to the first space (38) and the second space (40), and a second lid member (44) held slidably with respect to the first lid member (42) to attain a third state restricting access to the second space (40) and attain a fourth state providing access to the second space (40); and
a battery charger port (120) positioned in the second space (40).

2. The electric vehicle (10) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the container (36) comprises a partition wall (46) separating the first space (38) and the second space (40), the partition wall (46) projecting from a bottom surface (48) of the container (36) in a vehicle height direction; and the battery charger port (120) being located on the bottom surface (48) of the container (36).

3. The electric vehicle (10) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first lid member (42) comprises a first opening (52) which is obstructed by the second lid member (44) in a top view in the third state and an underside (54) of the first lid member (42) comprises a first railing structure (56) proximate to a first edge (58) of the first opening (52) and a second railing structure (60) proximate to a second edge (62) of the first opening (52), the first railing structure (56) and the second railing structure (60) projecting along a sliding direction of the second lid member (44), the first railing structure (56) receiving and guiding a third edge (64) of the second lid member (44) and the second railing structure (60) receiving and guiding a fourth edge (66) of the second lid member (44).

4. The electric vehicle (10) as claimed in claim 3, wherein the underside (54) of the first lid member (42) comprises a first stopper wall (68) and a second stopper wall (70), the first stopper wall (68) stopping the second lid member (44) from moving beyond a first predetermined portion in the sliding direction, and the second stopper wall (70) stopping the second lid member (44) from moving beyond a second predetermined portion in the sliding direction.

5. The electric vehicle (10) as claimed in claim 3, wherein at least one of: the first railing structure (56) comprises a first latching mechanism (72) and the third edge (64) of the second lid member (44) comprises a first counter latching mechanism (74); and the second railing structure (60) comprises a second latching mechanism (76) and the fourth edge (66) of the second lid member (44) comprises a second counter latching mechanism (78); the first latching mechanism (72) co-operating with the first counter latching mechanism (74) and the second latching mechanism (74) co-operating with the second counter latching mechanism (78) to retain the second lid member (44) in the third sate with respect to the first lid member (42).

6. The electric vehicle (10) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the utility box (34) comprising a resilient member (80) acting upon the second lid member (44) to move the second lid member (44) from the fourth state to the third state.

7. The electric vehicle (10) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the utility box (34) comprising a third lid member (82) attached to an upper side (84) of the first lid member (42), the first lid member (42) comprising the first opening (52) and the third lid member (82) comprising a second opening (86), the second lid member (44) obstructing the first opening (52) and the second opening (86) in a top view.

8. The electric vehicle (10) as claimed in claim 7, wherein at least one of:
an upper side (84) of the first lid member (42) comprises a third railing structure (88) proximate to a first edge (58) of the first opening (52) and a fourth railing structure (90) proximate to a second edge (62) of the first opening (52), the third railing structure (88) and the fourth railing structure (90) projecting along a sliding direction of the second lid member (44), the third railing structure (88) receiving and guiding a third edge (64) of the second lid member (44) and the fourth railing structure (90) receiving and guiding a fourth edge (66) of the second lid member (44); and
an underside (92) of the third lid member (82) comprises a fifth railing structure (94) proximate to a fifth edge (96) of the second opening (86) and a sixth railing structure (98) proximate to a sixth edge (100) of the second opening (86), the fifth railing structure (94) and the sixth railing structure (98) projecting along a sliding direction of the second lid member (44), the fifth railing structure (94) receiving and guiding a third edge (64) of the second lid member (44) and the sixth railing structure (98) receiving and guiding a fourth edge (66) of the second lid member (44).

9. The electric vehicle (10) as claimed in claim 8, wherein at least one of:
the upper side (84) of the first lid member (42) comprises a third stopper wall (102) and a fourth stopper wall (104), the third stopper wall (102) stopping the second lid member (44) from moving beyond a first predetermined portion in the sliding direction, and the fourth stopper wall (104) stopping the second lid member (44) from moving beyond a second predetermined portion in the sliding direction;
the underside (92) of the third lid member (82) comprises a fifth stopper wall (106) and a sixth stopper wall (108), the fifth stopper wall (106) stopping the second lid member (44) from moving beyond a first predetermined portion in the sliding direction, and the sixth stopper wall (108) stopping the second lid member (44) from moving beyond a second predetermined portion in the sliding direction.

10. The electric vehicle (10) as claimed in claim 8, wherein at least one of:
the third railing structure (88) comprises a third latching mechanism (110) and the third edge (64) of the second lid member (44) comprises a first counter latching mechanism (74); and the fourth railing structure (90) comprises a fourth latching mechanism (112) and the fourth edge (66) of the second lid member (44) comprises a second counter latching mechanism (78); the third latching mechanism (110) co-operating with the first counter latching mechanism (74) and the fourth latching mechanism (112) co-operating with the second counter latching mechanism (78) to retain the second lid member (44) in the third sate with respect to the first lid member (42); and
the fifth railing structure (94) comprises a fifth latching mechanism (114) and the third edge (64) of the second lid member (44) comprises a first counter latching mechanism (74); and the sixth railing structure (98) comprises a sixth latching mechanism (116) and the fourth edge (66) of the second lid member (44) comprises a second counter latching mechanism (78); the fifth latching mechanism (114) co-operating with the first counter latching mechanism (74) and the sixth latching mechanism (116) co-operating with the second counter latching mechanism (78) to retain the second lid member (44) in the third sate with respect to the first lid member (42).