Vehicle

Abstract

The invention relates to a vehicle comprising a chassis with an upper frame plate and a lower frame plate. Between the upper frame plate and the lower frame plate are provided: a traction battery pack arrangement comprising one or more battery modules; and a hydrogen tank structure comprising one or more hydrogen tanks. The hydrogen tank structure is vertically tightened to the traction battery pack arrangement so that one of the hydrogen tank structure and the traction battery pack arrangement is on top of the other. At least one of the hydrogen tank structure and the traction battery pack arrangement is tightened to one of the upper frame plate and lower frame plate.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to a vehicle, in particular to a vehicle powered by both a battery and hydrogen.

[0002] The vehicle can be a heavy vehicle such as a truck, a bus or a construction equipment. Although the invention will be described with respect to a truck, the invention is not limited to this particular vehicle, but can also be used in other vehicles such as passenger cars. BACKGROUND

[0003] An electric vehicle is equipped with an electric motor powered by one or more traction batteries. In order to provide sufficient energy, i.e. range, a large number of battery cells is required. The number of battery cells can be in the order of hundreds or even thousands, depending on the total energy (range) desired for the particular vehicle. In order to safely and efficiently manage the large number of battery cells installed in an electric vehicle, the battery cells are installed in the form of battery modules. The battery cells are grouped to form a module. The module can thus protect the battery cells from external impacts, heat or vibrations, etc. Further, the grouped modules can be combined in a traction battery pack. In addition to holding several battery modules, the traction battery pack can also comprise cooling components and electrical wiring, etc. Thus, when producing a vehicle, one or more traction battery packs will be installed into (or onto) the vehicle.

[0004] Another alternative is to use hydrogen. The chemical energy of hydrogen can be converted into mechanical energy in an internal combustion engine, or into electrical energy in a fuel cell, for example, in order to propel the vehicle.

[0005] The above-mentioned technologies can also be provided together in a vehicle, thus creating a hybrid vehicle.

[0006] On a truck, the traction battery pack is typically suspended from the chassis by a number of brackets, and connected to each other by a large number of cables and connectors. The traction battery pack on a truck can be formed in the shape of a cube and suspended from the frame of the chassis. This is an inefficient way of packaging, as the cube needs to be held outside the frame, thus requiring large brackets due to bending moments. It is also necessary to allow the frame to deflect in normal motion, which is why each cube is suspended with a bushing, which requires some free "lost" space for relative motion. Similar problems exist with installing hydrogen tanks, which are also typically suspended from the chassis by a number of brackets, and provided with cables and connectors that need to be handled with care. SUMMARY

[0007] It is an object of the present invention to provide a vehicle that is powered by both hydrogen and a battery, and alleviates at least some of the drawbacks of known hybrid vehicles. This object is achieved by a vehicle according to the invention.

[0008] The present invention is based on the insight that by placing one or more traction battery packs and one or more hydrogen tanks between the frame plates of the chassis and clamping them to such frame plates, a space-efficient installation can be obtained which does not require many cables and connectors and which contributes to an improved rigidity of the chassis.

[0009] Thus, according to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided a vehicle comprising:

[0010] - a rear end,

[0011] - a front end located in front of the rear end, wherein a direction extending from the rear end to the front end or vice versa is defined as a longitudinal direction of the vehicle,

[0012] - a chassis extending between the rear end and the front end, the chassis comprising:

[0013] - an upper frame plate having a length, a width and a thickness, wherein the length of the upper frame plate extends along the longitudinal direction and the thickness of the upper frame plate extends along a vertical direction, and

[0014] - a lower frame plate having a length, a width and a thickness, wherein the length of the lower frame plate extends along the longitudinal direction and the thickness of the lower frame plate extends along the vertical direction,

[0015] wherein the lower frame plate is located parallel below the upper frame plate,

[0016] wherein the vehicle further comprises, between the upper frame plate and the lower frame plate,

[0017] - a traction battery pack arrangement comprising one or more battery modules,

[0018] - a hydrogen tank structure comprising one or more hydrogen tanks,

[0019] - wherein the hydrogen tank structure is clamped vertically to the traction battery pack arrangement such that one of the hydrogen tank structure and the traction battery pack arrangement is located on top of the other,

[0020] - wherein at least one of the hydrogen tank structure and the traction battery pack arrangement is clamped to one of the upper frame plate and the lower frame plate.

[0021] By providing a vehicle comprising a hydrogen tank structure arranged on top of a traction battery pack arrangement between an upper frame plate and a lower frame plate of a chassis, or vice versa, the advantages of a space-saving and efficient installation can be obtained without compromising the structural rigidity of the chassis. Furthermore, by clamping the traction battery pack arrangement to the hydrogen tank structure, it is possible to avoid or at least reduce the number of brackets and joints required in known electric vehicles.

[0022] It should be understood that in the present disclosure, the traction battery arrangement can in at least some exemplary embodiments comprise a single traction battery, while in other exemplary embodiments, the traction battery arrangement can comprise two or more traction batteries. Suitably, in embodiments where the traction battery arrangement comprises two or more traction batteries, they can be placed on top of each other, thus forming a traction battery stack. In such cases, the traction batteries can suitably be tightened to each other, thus also avoiding or at least reducing the number of brackets and joints required in known electric vehicles. It should be understood that in the case of two or more traction batteries, each traction battery comprises one or more battery modules.

[0023] It should be understood that in the present disclosure, the hydrogen tank structure can comprise one or more hydrogen tanks. In at least some exemplary embodiments, the hydrogen tank structure comprises at least two hydrogen tanks, the hydrogen tanks being placed in a common geometric plane between the upper frame plate and the lower frame plate. Thus, the at least two hydrogen tanks can be placed adjacent to each other in a horizontal plane, but not necessarily in contact with each other.

[0024] According to at least one exemplary embodiment, the hydrogen tank structure and the traction battery arrangement together with the upper frame plate and the lower frame plate form an integral load-bearing structure of the chassis. This is advantageous in that a support wall or similar extending between the upper frame plate and the lower frame plate, which solution would occupy space / volume for the hydrogen tanks, can be omitted, instead the traction battery arrangement and the hydrogen tank structure together provide structural rigidity for the frame plates. In other words, the hydrogen tank structure and the traction battery arrangement can effectively fill the vertical space between the upper frame plate and the lower frame plate.

[0025] According to at least one exemplary embodiment, the hydrogen tank structure is located

[0026] - on top of the traction battery arrangement, wherein the vehicle comprises a fastener extending from the upper frame plate through the top of the hydrogen tank structure, whereby the hydrogen tank structure is tightened to the upper frame plate, or

[0027] - below the traction battery arrangement, wherein the vehicle comprises a fastener extending from the lower frame plate through the bottom of the hydrogen tank structure, whereby the hydrogen tank structure is tightened to the lower frame plate.

[0028] By tightening the hydrogen tank structure to at least one of the frame plates, a close contact with the frame plates can be achieved.

[0029] According to at least one exemplary embodiment, the vehicle comprises a fastener:

[0030] - extending from the lower frame plate to the bottom of the traction battery arrangement, whereby the traction battery arrangement is tightened to the lower frame plate, or

[0031] - when the hydrogen tank structure is positioned below the traction battery arrangement, the fastener extends from the upper frame plate to the top of the traction battery arrangement, thereby tightening the traction battery arrangement to the upper frame plate.

[0032] Thus, the combined vertical extension of the traction battery arrangement and the hydrogen tank structure can extend all the way from the lower frame plate to the upper frame plate, and one of the traction battery arrangement and the hydrogen tank structure is tightened to one of the frame plates, the other to the other frame plate. This further improves the structural rigidity of the chassis. As will be explained elsewhere in this disclosure, it is conceivable to tighten one or both of the traction battery arrangement and the hydrogen tank structure to both frame plates, e.g. with a fastener extending all the way from one of the frame plates to the other.

[0033] However, it is to be understood that other configurations are conceivable depending on separate requirements or requests. For example, if the vertical distance between the upper frame plate and the lower frame plate is designed to accommodate the hydrogen tank structure and the traction battery arrangement comprising a plurality of traction battery packs, it is conceivable to omit one or more traction battery packs. For example, if the vehicle operator, owner, customer, etc. does not require as much battery energy as provided by the plurality of traction battery packs, one or more omitted traction battery packs can be replaced by an insert, such as a dummy battery pack, to fill the vertical space between the frame plates. The traction battery arrangement or the hydrogen tank structure with a reduced number of traction battery packs can thus be fastened to the insert, and the insert can be fastened to one of the frame plates. Of course, as an alternative, the insert can be placed between the traction battery arrangement and the hydrogen tank structure. Thus, it is to be understood that there are many different exemplary embodiments in which one of the hydrogen tank structure, the traction battery arrangement and the insert is positioned between the other two, wherein the other two are tightened to the corresponding one of the upper frame plate and the lower frame plate. As mentioned above, a long fastener can be provided that can tighten several components of the entire assembly to each other.

[0034] It is to be understood that in this disclosure, the vertical direction is perpendicular to the ground on which the vehicle is positioned. In other words, the vertical direction coincides with or is parallel to the yaw axis of the vehicle. Thus, the fact that the hydrogen tank structure is vertically tightened to the traction battery arrangement means that the traction battery arrangement is positioned above or below the hydrogen tank structure. Similarly, in embodiments in which the traction battery arrangement comprises a stack of traction battery packs, the individual traction battery pack that is vertically tightened to one or more adjacent traction battery packs is thus tightened to one or more traction battery packs positioned above and / or below said individual traction battery pack.

[0035] It is also to be understood that the longitudinal direction of the vehicle coincides with or is parallel to the roll axis of the vehicle. The width or lateral direction of the vehicle coincides with or is parallel to the pitch axis of the vehicle. In relation to the dimensions of the upper frame plate and the lower frame plate, it is to be understood that the length is greater than the width, which is greater than the thickness.

[0036] As described above, according to at least one exemplary embodiment, the vehicle includes fasteners that extend from the lower frame plate through the traction battery pack assembly and hydrogen tank structure and to the upper frame plate. This can be advantageous because such long fasteners can provide a secure clamping of components between the upper and lower frame plates.

[0037] According to at least one exemplary embodiment, a hydrogen tank structure includes a support member having a plurality of hydrogen tanks disposed therein, wherein the support member includes a reinforcing structure for receiving tightening fasteners extending from an upper frame plate, a lower frame plate, and / or a traction battery pack assembly. This advantageously allows the support member to have multiple functions, such as supporting / protecting the hydrogen tanks and also serving as a means for facilitating tightening the hydrogen tank structure to an adjacent traction battery pack assembly and / or tightening the upper frame plate and / or the lower frame plate.

[0038] The reinforcement structure of the support of the hydrogen tank structure can be suitably formed by a shaped member into which (or even through which) the fastener can be drilled. The shaped member can be suitably provided with a bore, such as a threaded bore, whereby the threaded portion of the fastener can engage with the internal thread of the bore. However, it should be noted that the fasteners can be self-drilling, i.e., do not require any drilled holes in the reinforcement structure, and / or they can be self-tapping, i.e., do not require any matching threads in any drilled holes through the reinforcement structure.

[0039] According to at least one exemplary embodiment, the reinforcement structure includes a concave surface for receiving a hydrogen tank. Since hydrogen tanks are typically cylindrical, the concave surface is well suited for supporting them. It should be noted that regardless of whether the support member has a concave surface, the support member can also be used to accommodate / support other items, such as cooling elements, auxiliary batteries for the computer and control unit, gas tanks for the suspension system, and the like.

[0040] According to at least one exemplary embodiment, the hydrogen tank structure has a length, a width, and a height, wherein its height extends in a vertical direction and is less than each of its length and width. Thus, it should be understood that the length of the hydrogen tank structure can be greater than its width, which in turn can be greater than its height. This is advantageous because the hydrogen tank structure can fit neatly between the traction battery pack assembly and one of the upper and lower frame plates of the vehicle chassis without increasing the overall volume of the chassis. The relatively low height allows the hydrogen tank structure to fit within the available space while still providing a large amount of hydrogen that can be converted into electricity in the fuel cell.

[0041] Similarly, according to at least one example embodiment, the traction battery pack arrangement has a length, a width and a height, wherein its height extends in a vertical direction and is smaller than each of its length and its width. This also provides the advantage of a relatively low height, while still providing a large amount of stored energy, since the width and length of the traction battery pack arrangement enables a large number of battery cells to be provided and suitably enclosed, even with a limited height.

[0042] As mentioned above, the traction battery pack arrangement can comprise:

[0043] - a single traction battery pack comprising one or more battery modules, or

[0044] - a battery stack in which two or more traction battery packs are stacked on each other such that each traction battery pack is vertically tightened to an adjacent traction battery pack, wherein at least one traction battery pack is tightened to the hydrogen tank structure, wherein each traction battery pack in the battery stack comprises one or more battery modules.

[0045] Thus, in case of a single traction battery pack, it can be connected to the hydrogen tank structure and one of the upper and lower frame plates. In case of a battery stack, then one traction battery pack (such as the uppermost or lowermost battery pack) can be connected to the hydrogen tank structure, while the other (e.g. the lowermost or uppermost battery pack) can be connected to one of the upper and lower frame plates.

[0046] As explained in the background section of the present disclosure, a plurality of battery cells can be provided in a common battery module, which protects the battery cells. The traction battery pack can comprise a plurality of such battery modules, and can also comprise additional components, such as cooling assemblies, electrical wiring, etc. Such a modular structure is at least partly reflected in the following example embodiments.

[0047] Thus, according to at least one example embodiment (irrespective of whether the traction battery pack arrangement has a single traction battery pack, or is a battery stack comprising at least two traction battery packs), each traction battery pack of the one or more traction battery packs can comprise a tray in which a plurality of battery modules are provided, wherein the tray comprises a reinforcement structure to receive a tightening fastener extending from the upper frame plate, from the lower frame plate, from another traction battery pack and / or from the hydrogen tank structure. This has the advantage that the tray can have multiple functions, such as for supporting / protecting the battery modules, and also serving as a means to facilitate fastening of the traction battery pack to an adjacent traction battery pack.

[0048] The reinforcement structure of the tray of the traction battery pack can suitably be formed with shaped material portions into which fasteners can be drilled (or even threaded through). The shaped material portions can suitably be provided with drilled holes, such as threaded drilled holes, whereby threaded portions of the fasteners can engage with internal threads of the drilled holes. It is noted, however, that the fasteners can be self-drilling, i.e. no drilling into the reinforcement structure is required, and / or they can be self-tapping, i.e. no matching threads in any drilled holes through the reinforcement structure are required.

[0049] According to at least one example embodiment, the reinforcement structure of the tray of the traction battery pack comprises ribs extending across the tray and forming separate compartments for each battery module. Thus, the ribs can have the function of partition walls suitably spaced apart from each other at a distance substantially corresponding to the dimension (e.g. width) of the individual battery modules. In addition to the compartments for each battery module, the ribs can form one or more compartments for auxiliary components, such as cooling cables and electrical power wiring etc.

[0050] In example embodiments in which the traction battery pack arrangement comprises the battery stack, each traction battery pack can be plate-shaped and have a length, a width and a thickness, wherein the thickness of each traction battery pack is smaller than its length and smaller than its width, wherein the thickness extends in a vertical direction, such that the battery stack comprises a stack of horizontally flat traction battery packs. Similarly, in example embodiments in which the traction battery pack arrangement comprises a single traction battery pack, the traction battery pack can be plate-shaped and have a length, a width and a thickness, wherein the thickness of the traction battery pack is smaller than its length and smaller than its width, wherein the thickness extends in a vertical direction. Thus, it is understood by the above example embodiments that the plate-shaped traction battery packs provide a compact arrangement.

[0051] According to at least one example embodiment, a vehicle comprises:

[0052] - a power control unit,

[0053] - an electric motor, and

[0054] - a high voltage cable for transferring battery power and / or hydrogen fuel cell power from the power control unit to the electric motor,

[0055] wherein the traction battery pack arrangement is electrically connected to the power control unit,

[0056] wherein the hydrogen tank structure is fluidly connected with the power control unit, wherein the power control unit is located between the upper frame plate and the lower frame plate.

[0057] By also providing a power control unit between the upper frame plate and the lower frame plate, a compact installation can be achieved. Long cables can be omitted. Suitably, the power control unit, the traction battery pack arrangement and the hydrogen tank structure can be positioned close to each other and suitably within a common outer housing. Thus, according to at least one example embodiment, the power control unit is located within a housing enclosing the traction battery pack arrangement and the hydrogen tank structure.

[0058] According to at least one example embodiment, the power control unit comprises an electrical center to which the traction battery pack arrangement is connected via high voltage connectors, and a fuel cell center to which the hydrogen tank structure is connected via fluid connectors. This also allows for a compact assembly.

[0059] In example embodiments where the traction battery pack arrangement comprises a battery stack with two or more traction battery packs stacked on each other, different electrical connector solutions can be envisaged. For example, according to at least one example embodiment, each traction battery pack of the battery stack can be directly connected to the power control unit at the front end or the rear end of the above-mentioned housing. Thus, seen in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle, the power control unit can suitably be located in front of or behind the battery stack. Thus, any connectors of the battery stack can suitably face towards the front or the rear of the power control unit, which enables a compact installation without the need for many long electrical cables. Similarly, the fluid connectors of the hydrogen tank stack can suitably face towards the front or the rear of the power control unit. According to at least one example embodiment, each traction battery pack of the battery stack can be connected to the power control unit by a common connector. This further provides for a compact and efficient installation. In other example embodiments, each traction battery pack can have a separate corresponding connector to the power control unit. According to at least one example embodiment, the common connector can be provided on the lowermost traction battery pack of the battery stack, wherein the other traction battery packs are electrically connected to the lowermost traction battery pack of the battery stack. In this case, the lowermost traction battery pack can for example have a different size than the other traction battery packs. For example, the lowermost traction battery pack can be larger in at least one direction, such as the length direction of the vehicle. The power control unit can suitably be placed on top of the lowermost traction battery pack and the common connector.

[0060] Further advantages and advantageous features of the present application are disclosed in the following description and dependent claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0061] With reference to the appended drawings, below follows a more detailed description of the embodiments of the application cited as examples.

[0062] In the drawings:

[0063] Figure 1is a schematic diagram of a vehicle according to at least one exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0064] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of a vehicle according to at least one exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0065] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of a traction battery pack arrangement and a hydrogen tank structure connected to a power control unit that may be provided on a vehicle according to at least one exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0066] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of a traction battery pack arrangement and a hydrogen tank structure connected to a power control unit that may be provided on a vehicle according to at least one other exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0067] Figure 5 yes Figure 3 Schematic diagram of the hydrogen tank structure.

[0068] Figure 6 yes Figure 4 Schematic diagram of the hydrogen tank structure.

[0069] Figure 7 It can be formed Figure 3 and Figure 4 Schematic diagram of a traction battery pack as part of any traction battery pack arrangement.

[0070] Figures 8a to 8c The internal contents of a traction battery pack, which may form part of a traction battery pack arrangement according to at least one exemplary embodiment of the present invention, are schematically illustrated. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0071] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a vehicle 1 according to at least one exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Although the vehicle 1 is shown in the form of a truck, other types of vehicles may be provided according to the present invention, such as buses, construction equipment, or passenger cars.

[0072] A truck 1 (vehicle) includes a cab 2 in which a driver can operate the vehicle 1. However, the present invention can also be implemented in an autonomous vehicle. The vehicle 1 includes a plurality of road wheels 4, shown here as two pairs of wheels, although in other embodiments a different number of wheels may be provided, such as three, four, or more pairs.

[0073] Vehicle 1 has a rear end 6 and a front end 8 located forward of rear end 6. The direction extending from rear end 6 to front end 8 is defined as the longitudinal direction of vehicle 1, or vice versa. A chassis 10 extends between rear end 6 and front end 8. Chassis 10 includes an upper frame plate 12 and a lower frame plate 14, with lower frame plate 14 located vertically below upper frame plate 12. Each of upper frame plate 12 and lower frame plate 14 has a length, a width, and a thickness. The length extends along the longitudinal direction of vehicle 1. The thickness extends along the vertical direction. The width extends in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal and vertical directions, i.e., perpendicular to the drawing plane.

[0074] The traction battery assembly 16 includes a plurality of traction battery packs, shown here as two traction battery packs 16a-16b stacked on top of each other. However, it should be understood that the traction battery assembly 16 may include a different number of traction battery packs, such as three or more traction battery packs, or only a single traction battery pack. A hydrogen tank structure 18 is located atop the traction battery assembly 16. However, it is contemplated that the traction battery assembly 16 may alternatively be located atop the hydrogen tank structure 18. The traction battery assembly 16 and the hydrogen tank structure 18 are disposed between the upper frame plate 12 and the lower frame plate 14. The traction battery assembly 16 is vertically fastened to the hydrogen tank structure 18. In the illustration, the uppermost traction battery pack 16a is fastened to the hydrogen tank structure 18 via fasteners 20. Furthermore, as shown, each traction battery pack 16a-16b can be vertically fastened to its adjacent traction battery pack 16a-16b via corresponding fasteners 20. At least one of the traction battery pack assembly 16 and the hydrogen tank structure 18 is fastened to one of the upper frame plate 12 and the lower frame plate 14. In the example shown, the hydrogen tank structure 18 is fastened to the upper frame plate 12 by fasteners 20, and the traction battery pack assembly 16 (more specifically, the lowermost traction battery pack 16b) is fastened to the lower frame plate 14 by fasteners 20. However, it should be understood that other fastening solutions are contemplated. For example, if it is deemed unnecessary to Figure 1 In the vehicle 1 shown in FIG, there are two traction battery packs 16 a - 16 b. If one of the traction battery packs is removed, a hollow volume will exist. In this case, an insert, such as a dummy pack, can be provided below the remaining traction battery pack and tightened to the lower frame plate 14. The fasteners 20 discussed here can be screws or bolts, for example.

[0075] It should be noted that in the exemplary embodiment shown, the uppermost traction battery pack 16a is tightened by the fasteners 20 not only to the hydrogen tank structure 18, but also to the adjacent traction battery pack 16b below it. Similarly, the lowermost traction battery pack 16b is tightened by the fasteners 20 not only to the lower frame plate 14, but also to the adjacent traction battery pack 16a above it.

[0076] It will be appreciated that because the traction battery pack arrangement 16 and the hydrogen tank structure 18 fill the space between the upper and lower frame plates 12, 14, they provide support and rigidity to the chassis 10. Thus, the traction battery pack arrangement 16 and the hydrogen tank structure 18, together with the upper and lower frame plates 12, 14, form an integral load-bearing structure of the chassis 10.

[0077] Figure 1 A power control unit 22 is also shown located behind the traction battery pack arrangement 16 and the hydrogen tank structure 18. Further rearward is located an electric motor 24 for propelling the vehicle 1. The traction battery pack arrangement 16 is electrically connected to the power control unit 22, and the hydrogen tank structure 18 is fluidically connected to the power control unit 22. The power control unit 22 comprises an electrical centre to which the traction battery pack arrangement 16 is connected via high voltage connectors, and a fuel cell centre to which the hydrogen tank structure 18 is connected via fluid connectors. Like the traction battery pack arrangement 16 and the hydrogen tank structure 18, the power control unit 22 is also located between the upper and lower frame plates 12, 14.

[0078] Power can be transmitted from the power control unit 22 to the electric motor 24 via a high voltage cable. The power control unit 22 can be suitably located within a housing 26 enclosing the traction battery pack arrangement 16 and the hydrogen tank structure 18, and thus it can be a common housing 26 enclosing all three components (i.e. the traction battery pack arrangement 16, the hydrogen tank structure 18 and the power control unit 22).

[0079] In the exemplary embodiment shown, Figure 1 a plurality of relatively short fasteners 20 are provided. Each fastener 20 is shown connecting two components, such as two traction battery packs 16a to 16b, or a traction battery pack 16b and the lower frame plate 14, or a traction battery pack 16a and the hydrogen tank structure 18, or the hydrogen tank structure 18 and the upper frame plate 12. However, it will be appreciated that longer fasteners can be provided which span more than two components, such as three or more components, or even span all of the components from the upper frame 12 to the lower frame 14. The latter case is shown in Figure 2 .

[0080] Thus, with reference to Figure 2 , Figure 2A schematic view of a vehicle 1' according to at least one other exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is provided. Except for the short fasteners 20 in Figure 1 , the illustrated components and parts can be substantially the same as those illustrated in Figure 1 . In contrast, in the exemplary embodiment of Figure 2 , relatively long fasteners 20' are provided. The fasteners 20' extend from the lower frame plate 14 through the traction battery pack arrangement 16, the hydrogen tank structure, and all the way to the upper frame plate 12. As such, each traction battery pack 16a to 16b in the traction battery pack arrangement 16 becomes tightened to its adjacent traction battery pack 16a to 16b, and the uppermost traction battery pack 16a and the lowermost traction battery pack 16b become tightened to the hydrogen tank structure 18 and the lower frame plate 14, respectively. In other words, the entire assembly (i.e., the traction battery pack arrangement 16 and the hydrogen tank structure 18) is tightened to the upper frame plate 12 and the lower frame plate 14 by the long fasteners 20'. Suitably, the entire assembly can withstand the clamping force from the upper frame plate 12 and the lower frame plate 14 being tightened by the long fasteners 20'.

[0081] From the above, it is clear that in both exemplary embodiments of Figure 1 and Figure 2 , the fasteners 20, 20' extend from the lower frame plate 14 through the bottom of the traction battery pack arrangement 16 (more specifically, the bottom of the lowermost traction battery pack 16b), whereby the traction battery pack arrangement 16 is tightened to the lower frame plate 14. Correspondingly, in both exemplary embodiments of Figure 1 and Figure 2 , the fasteners 20, 20' extend from the upper frame plate 12 through the top of the hydrogen tank structure 18, whereby the hydrogen tank structure 18 is tightened to the upper frame plate 12. In this regard, it should be understood that the terms such as "extend from" and "extend to" in the present disclosure do not imply any specific orientation of the fasteners. For example, in the case where the fasteners 20, 20' are in the form of screws having screw heads and shafts, the screw heads can be located at either of the two parts: i.e., the part from which the fasteners 20, 20' are said to extend, or the part to which the fasteners 20, 20' are said to extend. As such, in the illustration of Figure 2 , although the head of the fastener 20' is shown to be located at the lower frame plate 14, the fastener 20' can still be referred to as extending from the upper frame plate 12 to the lower frame plate 14. Furthermore, it should be understood that the orientations illustrated in Figure 1 and Figure 2 are merely exemplary, and one or more of the fasteners 20, 20' can alternatively be provided in the opposite orientation.

[0082] As Figure 1 and Figure 2As shown in Fig. 1 1, the fasteners 20, 20' can also be used to secure the housing 26 to the upper frame plate 12 and the lower frame plate 14.

[0083] Figure 3 is a schematic view of a traction battery arrangement 16 and a hydrogen tank structure 18 which can be provided on a vehicle according to at least one exemplary embodiment of the present application, connected to a power control unit 22. Thus, it can for example correspond to Figure 1 and / or Figure 2 the traction battery arrangement 16, the hydrogen tank structure 18 and the power control unit 22 shown in Fig. 1 1.

[0084] In Fig. 1 1, another example is shown. Thus, Figure 4 is a schematic view of a traction battery arrangement 16 and a hydrogen tank structure 18 which can be provided on a vehicle according to at least one exemplary embodiment of the present application, connected to a power control unit 22. Thus, it can for example correspond to Figure 4 and / or Figure 1 the hydrogen tank structure 18 shown in Fig. 1 1. Figure 2

[0085] Figure 5 is a schematic view of the hydrogen tank structure 18 in Fig. 1 1, whereas Figure 3 is a schematic view of the hydrogen tank structure 18' in Fig. 1 1 1. Further, Figure 6 is a schematic view of a traction battery 16a which can form part of the traction battery arrangement 16 in either of Figs. 1 1 and 1 1 1. Figure 4 Figure 7 Figure 3 and Figure 4 is a schematic view of a traction battery 16a which can form part of the traction battery arrangement 16 in either of Figs. 1 1 and 1 1 1.

[0086] Figure 3 and Figure 5 The hydrogen tank structure 18 shown in Fig. 1 1 comprises a plurality of hydrogen tanks 28, here shown as six hydrogen tanks 28. However, in other exemplary embodiments, there can be more or less hydrogen tanks. The hydrogen tank structure 18 comprises a support 30 in which the plurality of hydrogen tanks 28 is arranged. The support comprises a reinforcement structure 32 for receiving the tightening fasteners extending from the upper frame plate, from the lower frame plate and / or from the traction battery arrangement 16. In the shown example, the support 30 forms a plurality of receiving cavities through the reinforcement structure 32. In particular, the reinforcement structure comprises concave surfaces for receiving the hydrogen tanks 28. The curvature of the concave surfaces can suitably substantially correspond to the curvature of the enveloping surface of the hydrogen tanks 28. The enveloping surface can typically be cylindrical.

[0087] ​​​It should be noted that other designs and configurations of the support 30 and the reinforcement structure 32 can be envisaged. For example, in examples, the reinforcement structure 32 is spaced apart from each other along each hydrogen tank 28. In other example embodiments, a continuous reinforcement structure can be present along each hydrogen tank 28.

[0088] In comparison to the hydrogen tank structure 18 shown in Figure 3 and Figure 5 In the hydrogen tank structure 18’ shown in Figure 4 and Figure 6 two outermost hydrogen tanks have been replaced by an outer shell 34 for housing / supporting other items, such as cooling elements, auxiliary batteries for the computer and control unit, gas tanks for a suspension system, etc. In other words, in at least some example embodiments, the hydrogen tank structure 18’ can comprise / house / support other items in addition to just the hydrogen tanks 28. Thus, in at least some example embodiments, the hydrogen tank structure 18, 18’ comprises at least one hydrogen tank 28.

[0089] Reference is now made to Figure 7 which shows a traction battery pack 16a, which can form part of a battery stack constituting the traction battery pack arrangement 16 shown in the preceding figures. Thus, Figure 7 the traction battery pack 16a in Figures 1 to 4 may correspond to any one of the traction battery packs 16a-16b in

[0090] As shown in Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 7 each traction battery pack 16a-16b has a plurality of input areas 36 for receiving cooling cables, electrical wires, etc. As can be seen in Figure 7 output areas 38 are provided on opposite sides of the traction battery pack 16a (similar output areas are present on the traction battery packs 16a-16b in Figures 3 to 4 but are not visible in the illustrations). Such output areas 38 can comprise connectors for directly connecting each traction battery pack 16a-16b to the power control unit 22.

[0091] Thus, it should be understood that in some example embodiments, each of the traction battery packs 16a-16b in Figure 3 and Figure 4 may be individually connected to the power control unit 22. However, in other example embodiments, the traction battery packs 16a-16b in Figures 3 to 4All traction battery packs 16a-b in the traction battery pack arrangement 16 are connected to the power control unit 22 with a common connector. For example, the common connector can be provided on the lowermost traction battery pack 16b, wherein another traction battery pack 16a is electrically connected to the lowermost traction battery pack 16b. Although not shown in Figures 3 to 4 , in some example embodiments, the lowermost traction battery pack 16b, in which the common connector is provided, can extend beyond the other traction battery pack 16a in the longitudinal direction, and the power control unit 22 may, for example, be arranged on top of the extension of the lowermost traction battery pack 16b.

[0092] The extension of the traction battery pack arrangement 16 in the vertical direction is suitably smaller than the extension in the longitudinal or transverse direction of the vehicle. This gives the impression of a smaller volume compared to prior art cubic battery solutions. Thus, the height (may also be referred to as thickness) of the traction battery pack arrangement 16 is smaller than each of its length and its width (the height / thickness of the traction battery pack extends in the vertical direction).

[0093] Furthermore, each individual traction battery pack 16a-b can have a very small vertical extension. This is, for example, shown in Figure 7 . The height h (may also be referred to as thickness) of the individual traction battery pack 16a is smaller than its length and its width. In fact, the traction battery pack 16a can be substantially plate-like. Thus, the traction battery pack 16a can be considered a flat assembly. Thus, the battery stacks constituting the traction battery pack arrangement 16 comprise stacks of horizontal flat traction battery packs 16a-b. The height / thickness of each traction battery pack can suitably lie in the range of 70 to 130 mm, such as 80 to 120 mm, typically 90 to 110 mm. Figures 3 to 4

[0094] Figures 8a to 8c The internal content of a traction battery pack, which can form part of a traction battery pack arrangement according to at least one example embodiment of the present application, is schematically shown.

[0095] Thus, Figure 8a A cross-sectional or cut view of a traction battery 116, such as the type or similar type of traction battery 16a-b shown in the previous figures, can be shown, wherein the top of the traction battery 116 has been cut away. Figure 8a It is shown that the traction battery 116 comprises a tray 40 in which a plurality of battery modules 42 are provided. In Figure 8b , the tray 40 is shown without battery modules 42, whereas in Figure 8c , an actual battery module 42 is shown.

[0096] From Figure 8a and Figure 8b ​As can be seen, the tray 40 includes a reinforcing structure 44, here shown as ribs or dividing walls. The reinforcing structure 44 can be integrally formed with the main portion of the tray 40, or formed as a separate piece that is connected to the tray 40, such as by welding, gluing, or by mechanical fastening measures. The reinforcing structure 40 can receive a tightening fastener, such as the fastener 20, 20' previously discussed in Figure 1 and Figure 2 The fastener 20, 20' can secure the traction battery pack 116 to one of the frame plates 12, 14, to the hydrogen tank structure 18, and / or to one or more other traction battery packs 16a to 16b, depending on the location of the particular traction battery pack 116 in the battery stack.

[0097] The reinforcing structure 44 extends across the tray 40, and forms a separate compartment 46 for each battery module 42. As such, any fastener 20, 20' that is passed into the traction battery pack 116 is in fact passed into the reinforcing structure 44, rather than into the battery module 42.

[0098] In the present illustration, six compartments 46 are shown for receiving six battery modules 42. However, it should be understood that other numbers of compartments 46 and battery modules 42 are equally contemplated, whether fewer or more in number. It should be further understood that one or more compartments 46 can house other components, such as electrical or cooling components, rather than the battery modules 42 shown.

[0099] It should be understood that the application is not limited to the embodiments described above and shown in the drawings; on the contrary, many changes and modifications can become apparent to those skilled in the art, particularly in light of the foregoing description.

Claims

1. A vehicle (1, 1'), comprising: - Backend (6), a front end (8) located in front of the rear end, wherein the direction extending from the rear end towards the front end or vice versa is defined as the longitudinal direction of the vehicle, - a chassis (10) extending between the rear end and the front end, the chassis comprising: an upper frame plate (12), the upper frame plate having a length, a width, and a thickness, wherein the length of the upper frame plate extends along the longitudinal direction and the thickness of the upper frame plate extends along the vertical direction, and a lower frame plate (14), the lower frame plate having a length, a width and a thickness, wherein the length of the lower frame plate extends along the longitudinal direction and the thickness of the lower frame plate extends along the vertical direction, Wherein, the lower frame plate is located parallel to and below the upper frame plate. Wherein, the vehicle further comprises between the upper frame plate and the lower frame plate, - a traction battery pack arrangement (16), said traction battery pack arrangement comprising one or more battery modules (42), - a hydrogen tank structure (18, 18'), said hydrogen tank structure comprising one or more hydrogen tanks (28), wherein the hydrogen tank structure is vertically tightened to the traction battery pack arrangement so that one of the hydrogen tank structure and the traction battery pack arrangement is located on top of the other, - wherein at least one of the hydrogen tank structure and the traction battery pack arrangement is fastened to one of the upper frame plate and the lower frame plate.

2. The vehicle (1, 1') according to claim 1, wherein The hydrogen tank structure (18, 18') and the traction battery pack device (16) together with the upper frame plate (12) and the lower frame plate (14) form an integral load-bearing structure of the chassis (10).

3. The vehicle (1, 1') according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The hydrogen tank structure (18, 18') is located at: - a top portion of the traction battery pack assembly (16), wherein the vehicle includes fasteners (20, 20') extending from the upper frame plate (12) through the top portion of the hydrogen tank structure, whereby the hydrogen tank structure is tightened to the upper frame plate, or - beneath the traction battery pack assembly (16), wherein the vehicle includes fasteners (20, 20') extending from the lower frame plate (14) through the bottom of the hydrogen tank structure, whereby the hydrogen tank structure is tightened to the lower frame plate.

4. The vehicle (1, 1') according to claim 3, comprising the following fasteners (20, 20'): - when the hydrogen tank structure (18, 18') is located on top of the traction battery pack assembly, the fasteners extend from the lower frame plate (14) to the bottom of the traction battery pack assembly (16), thereby tightening the traction battery pack assembly to the lower frame plate, or - When the hydrogen tank structure (18, 18') is positioned below the traction battery pack assembly, the fasteners extend from the upper frame plate (12) to the top of the traction battery pack assembly (16), thereby tightening the traction battery pack assembly to the upper frame plate.

5. The vehicle (1, 1') of claim 1 or 2, comprising fasteners (20') extending from the lower frame plate (14) through the traction battery pack arrangement (16) and the hydrogen tank structure (18, 18') and to the upper frame plate (12).

6. The vehicle (1, 1') according to claim 1 or 2, wherein The hydrogen tank structure (18, 18') includes a support member (30) in which a plurality of hydrogen tanks (28) are disposed, wherein the support member includes a reinforcement structure (32) for receiving a tightening fastener (20, 20') extending from the upper frame plate (12), from the lower frame plate (14), and / or from the traction battery pack assembly (16).

7. The vehicle (1, 1') according to claim 6, wherein The reinforcement structure (32) includes a concave surface for receiving the hydrogen tank (28).

8. The vehicle (1, 1') according to claim 1 or 2, wherein The hydrogen tank structure (18, 18') has a length, a width, and a height, wherein the height of the hydrogen tank structure extends along the vertical direction and is less than each of its length and its width.

9. The vehicle (1, 1') according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The traction battery pack assembly (16) has a length, a width, and a height, wherein the height of the traction battery pack assembly extends along the vertical direction and is less than each of its length and its width.

10. The vehicle (1, 1') according to claim 1 or 2, wherein The traction battery pack device (16) includes: - a single traction battery pack (16a, 16b, 116) comprising one or more battery modules (42), or - a battery stack in which two or more traction battery packs (16a, 16b, 116) are stacked on top of each other so that each traction battery pack is vertically tightened to an adjacent traction battery pack, wherein at least one traction battery pack is tightened to the hydrogen tank structure (18, 18'), wherein each traction battery pack in the battery stack includes one or more battery modules (42).

11. The vehicle (1, 1') according to claim 10, wherein Each traction battery pack (16a, 16b, 116) of the one or more traction battery packs includes a tray (40) having a plurality of battery modules (42) disposed therein, wherein the tray includes a reinforcement structure (44) for receiving a tightening fastener (20, 20') extending from the upper frame plate (12), from the lower frame plate (14), from another traction battery pack, and / or from the hydrogen tank structure (18, 18').

12. The vehicle (1, 1') according to claim 11, wherein The reinforcement structure (44) includes ribs that extend across the tray (40) and form individual compartments (46) for each battery module (42).

13. The vehicle (1, 1') according to claim 10, wherein The traction battery arrangement (16) comprises the battery stack, wherein each traction battery (16a, 16b, 116) is plate-shaped and has a length, a width and a thickness, wherein the thickness of each traction battery is less than its length and less than its width, wherein the thickness extends along the vertical direction so that the battery stack comprises a stack of horizontally flat traction batteries.

14. The vehicle (1, 1') according to claim 1 or 2, comprising: - a power control unit (22), - an electric motor (24), and - a high-voltage cable for transmitting battery power and / or hydrogen fuel cell power from the power control unit to the electric motor, wherein the traction battery pack device (16) is electrically connected to the power control unit, The hydrogen tank structure (18, 18') is fluidically connected to the power control unit, wherein the power control unit is located between the upper frame plate (12) and the lower frame plate (14).

15. The vehicle (1, 1') according to claim 14, wherein The power control unit (22) includes an electrical center to which the traction battery pack device (16) is connected via a high-voltage connector, and a fuel cell center to which the hydrogen tank structure (18, 18') is connected via a fluid connector.

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