Commercial vehicle with charging socket

Abstract

Commercial vehicle (10), preferably a truck or bus, comprising: a front axle (14); a rear axle (16); a side panel (18), preferably substantially plate-shaped, which is arranged between the front axle (14) and the rear axle (16) and covers a section of a longitudinal side of the commercial vehicle (10); and a charging socket (20) for connecting an electrical charging cable (28), wherein the charging socket (20) is concealed behind the side panel (18); wherein: the side panel (18) is movable, preferably pivotable or slidable, to provide access to the charging socket (20) for connecting the electrical charging cable (28); and / or The charging socket (20) is movable, preferably pivotable or slidable, to make the charging socket (20) accessible for connecting the electrical charging cable (28).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a commercial vehicle, preferably a truck or a bus, comprising a charging socket for connecting an electrical charging cable.

[0002] The transition from combustion engine-powered trucks to electric motor-powered trucks presents manufacturers with a variety of challenges. A particular problem is the high unit costs for electrically powered trucks, which are currently only in demand and produced in very small numbers, compared to combustion engine-powered trucks, which are still in demand and produced in very large quantities. Another problem area is the high development costs for new truck parts and the modification of existing truck parts to adapt them to the requirements of electrically powered trucks. Another problem area is that electrically powered trucks often have a shortage of installation space, as many electrical components, particularly those in the high-voltage system, require comparatively large amounts of or additional installation space (e.g.Traction battery(ies), electric motor(s), on-board charger, charging socket).

[0003] For example, DE 10 2018 000 098 A1 discloses a truck with a frame. A socket and bracket assembly is attached to the frame. The socket and bracket assembly includes an electrical socket. The socket and bracket assembly is arranged behind a front axle of the truck.

[0004] The invention is based on the object of creating an improved arrangement for the charging socket in a commercial vehicle. Preferably, the arrangement should be particularly space-efficient and / or protected.

[0005] The problem is solved by the features of independent claim 1. Advantageous further developments are specified in the dependent claims and the description.

[0006] According to one aspect, a (e.g., electrically driven) commercial vehicle, preferably a truck or a bus, is disclosed. The commercial vehicle has a front axle, a rear axle, and a preferably substantially plate-shaped side panel. The side panel is arranged between the front axle and the rear axle and covers a portion of a longitudinal side of the commercial vehicle. The commercial vehicle has a charging socket for connecting an electrical charging cable, wherein the charging socket (e.g., in a non-use position) is arranged concealed behind the side panel (e.g., with respect to a viewing direction parallel to a transverse axis of the commercial vehicle, to a front side or outer side of the side panel).

[0007] The charging socket can therefore be positioned very space-efficiently, as no installation space needs to be created on the outer longitudinal side of the commercial vehicle. Instead, existing installation space behind the side panel can be utilized. This preferably eliminates the need for complex modifications to insert the charging socket between the fender and the side panel. The charging socket can also be specially protected behind the side panel, e.g., from dirt, wear, and in the event of an accident. Placing the charging socket behind the side panel can be visually appealing, as it is not visible from the outside. Placing the charging socket behind the side panel can be aerodynamically advantageous, as the charging socket cannot negatively impact the vehicle's aerodynamics.

[0008] It is possible for the side panel to have a (e.g., substantially plate-shaped) crash structure (e.g., with a profiled shape, such as a honeycomb structure or wave profile, etc.). Preferably, the crash structure can be designed to dissipate impact energy in the event of an accident (e.g., a side impact) under predetermined plastic deformation of the crash structure. Alternatively or additionally, the crash structure can be designed to direct impact energy in the event of an accident (e.g., a side impact) away from the charging socket and / or a traction battery of the commercial vehicle.

[0009] In a further development, the charging socket (e.g. in a non-use position) can be arranged concealed behind the crash structure of the side panel (e.g. with respect to a viewing direction parallel to a transverse axis of the commercial vehicle to a front or outer side of the side panel).

[0010] It is also possible for the charging socket to have a detachable cover for covering electrical connectors of the charging socket, which cover is formed separately from the side panel.

[0011] In one exemplary embodiment, the side panel essentially covers an entire section of the long side of the commercial vehicle between the front and rear axles. Alternatively or additionally, the side panel can be designed as a full side panel. The advantageous arrangement of the charging socket can thus be used particularly in commercial vehicles with continuous side paneling between the front and rear axles.

[0012] In a further development, the side panel can be designed in one piece or in several pieces.

[0013] In a further exemplary embodiment, the commercial vehicle has a traction battery that is concealed behind the side panel (e.g., with respect to a viewing direction parallel to a transverse axis of the commercial vehicle, to a front or outer side of the side panel) and preferably (e.g., directly) adjacent to the charging socket. This advantageously creates spatial proximity between the associated components, the charging socket and the traction battery, thereby enabling short cable lengths and a shared, protected arrangement behind the side panel.

[0014] Preferably, the charging socket for electrically charging the traction battery can be electrically connected to the traction battery, e.g., by means of an on-board charger.

[0015] Preferably, the traction battery for supplying electric current can be connected to at least one electric drive of the commercial vehicle for driving the commercial vehicle.

[0016] In a further embodiment, the commercial vehicle further comprises a body or semi-trailer that preferably covers the charging socket from above (e.g., in a non-use position) and / or is arranged (e.g., directly) above the charging socket. This advantageous arrangement of the charging socket can thus be used particularly in commercial vehicles with a body or semi-trailer.

[0017] According to the invention, the side panel is movable, preferably pivotable or displaceable, to make the charging socket accessible for connecting the electrical charging cable. This advantageously ensures that the charging socket is only accessible and, for example, less protected when it is actually needed, namely when a charging cable is connected to the charging socket.

[0018] For example, the side panel can be movable between a normal position and an open position in which there is access to the charging socket for connecting the charging cable to the charging socket.

[0019] In one embodiment, the side panel can be pivoted upwards or downwards, and / or the side panel can be pivoted about an axis substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the commercial vehicle, and / or a maximum pivot angle between a closed position and an open position of the side panel is less than 45°, preferably less than 30°, particularly preferably less than 20°. This advantageously makes it possible to easily create access to the charging socket when needed. The charging socket can preferably continue to be protected by the side panel, even when pivoted.

[0020] According to the invention, the charging socket is movable, preferably pivotable or displaceable, to make it accessible for connecting the electrical charging cable. This, in turn, advantageously ensures that the charging socket is only accessible and, for example, less protected when it is actually needed, namely when a charging cable is connected to the charging socket.

[0021] For example, the charging socket can be moved into a position where it is accessible for connecting a charging cable, e.g., because it protrudes beyond the side panel, the traction battery, and / or the body.

[0022] In a further embodiment, the charging socket can be pivoted about an axis that is essentially parallel to a vertical axis or a longitudinal axis of the commercial vehicle. Alternatively or additionally, the charging socket can be moved upwards or downwards. Alternatively or additionally, the charging socket is attached to the side panel and can be moved, preferably displaced or pivoted, together with the side panel to make the charging socket accessible for connecting the electrical charging cable. Alternatively or additionally, the charging socket can be moved essentially parallel to a transverse axis of the commercial vehicle. This results in a multitude of combinable options for implementing the mobility of the charging socket, thus enabling easy connection of the charging cable.

[0023] In one embodiment, the charging socket is designed so that the electrical charging cable can be connected to a top or bottom side of the charging socket. Alternatively or additionally, the charging socket can be designed so that the electrical charging cable can be connected to a front side of the charging socket facing in a forward direction of travel of the commercial vehicle. Alternatively or additionally, the charging socket can be designed so that the electrical charging cable can be connected to a rear side of the charging socket facing opposite a forward direction of travel of the commercial vehicle. Advantageously, this enables connection of the charging cable after a relatively small movement of the charging socket and / or the side panel, since it is not necessary to create space-consuming access to an (outer) transverse side of the charging socket facing in a transverse direction of the commercial vehicle to connect the charging cable, as is usual.

[0024] Alternatively or additionally, the electrical charging cable can be connected to a transverse side of the charging socket directed in a transverse direction of the commercial vehicle.

[0025] The preferred embodiments described below, which can be combined with one another, each relate to solutions that can be particularly advantageous with regard to the required installation space, the integration of the mobility of the charging socket and / or the side panel, and the accessibility by means of the charging cable.

[0026] In a preferred embodiment, the side panel can be pivoted downward about an axis that is substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the commercial vehicle. Preferably, the charging socket can be pivoted outward about a further axis that is substantially parallel to a vertical axis of the commercial vehicle or substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the commercial vehicle. Preferably, the charging socket is designed so that the electrical charging cable can be connected to a top side of the charging socket.

[0027] In a further preferred embodiment, the charging socket is movable upwards (e.g., to protrude beyond the side panel). Preferably, the charging socket is designed so that the electrical charging cable can be connected to a transverse side of the charging socket oriented in a transverse direction of the commercial vehicle (e.g., the outer side).

[0028] In a further development, the side panel can be fixed in place.

[0029] In a further preferred embodiment, the side panel can be pivoted downward about an axis that is substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the commercial vehicle. Preferably, the charging socket can be attached to (e.g., a rear side) of the side panel and / or pivotable together with the side panel. Preferably, the charging socket is designed so that the electrical charging cable can be connected to a top side of the charging socket.

[0030] In a further preferred embodiment, the side panel can be pivoted downward about an axis that is substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the commercial vehicle. Preferably, the charging socket can be displaced outward substantially parallel to a transverse axis of the commercial vehicle. Preferably, the charging socket can be configured such that the electrical charging cable can be connected to a top side of the charging socket, or to a front side of the charging socket facing in a forward direction of travel of the commercial vehicle, or to a rear side of the charging socket facing opposite a forward direction of travel of the commercial vehicle.

[0031] In a further preferred embodiment, the side panel can be pivoted downward about an axis that is substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the commercial vehicle. Preferably, the charging socket can be pivoted outward while maintaining its orientation (e.g., by means of at least one pivot arm). Preferably, the charging socket can be configured such that the electrical charging cable can be connected to a top side of the charging socket, or to a front side of the charging socket facing in a forward direction of travel of the commercial vehicle, or to a rear side of the charging socket facing opposite a forward direction of travel of the commercial vehicle.

[0032] In a further preferred embodiment, the side panel has a flap that can be opened, preferably by pivoting. Preferably, the charging socket for connecting the electrical charging cable can be accessible when the flap is open and preferably inaccessible when the flap is closed.

[0033] For example, the side panel and / or the charging socket can be fixed in place, e.g., fixed to the chassis.

[0034] It is possible to apply the technique as disclosed herein to passenger cars.

[0035] It is also possible that the side panel is not located between the front and rear axles, but, for example, at the front of the commercial vehicle, at the rear of the commercial vehicle, in front of the front axle or behind the rear axle.

[0036] The above-described preferred embodiments and features of the invention can be combined with one another as desired. Further details and advantages of the invention are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. They show: Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a commercial vehicle according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Fig. 2A is a purely schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of a commercial vehicle in an area directly behind a front axle of the commercial vehicle, viewed from the front; Fig. 2B is a purely schematic horizontal sectional view of a section of a commercial vehicle in an area between a front axle and a rear axle of the commercial vehicle, viewed from above, according to the embodiment of Fig. 2A; Fig. 3A is a purely schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of a commercial vehicle in an area directly behind a front axle of the commercial vehicle, viewed from the front; Fig. 3B is a purely schematic horizontal sectional view of a section of a commercial vehicle in an area between a front axle and a rear axle of the commercial vehicle, viewed from above, according to the embodiment of Fig. 3A; Fig. 4A is a purely schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of a commercial vehicle in an area directly behind a front axle of the commercial vehicle, viewed from the front; Fig. 4B is a purely schematic horizontal sectional view of a section of a commercial vehicle in an area between a front axle and a rear axle of the commercial vehicle, viewed from above, according to the embodiment of Fig. 4A; Fig. 5A is a purely schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of a commercial vehicle in an area directly behind a front axle of the commercial vehicle, viewed from the front; Fig. 5B is a purely schematic horizontal sectional view of a section of a commercial vehicle in an area between a front axle and a rear axle of the commercial vehicle, viewed from above, according to the embodiment of Fig. 5A; Fig. 6A is a purely schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of a commercial vehicle in an area directly behind a front axle of the commercial vehicle, viewed from the front; Fig. 6B is a purely schematic horizontal sectional view of a section of a commercial vehicle in an area between a front axle and a rear axle of the commercial vehicle, viewed from above, according to the embodiment of Fig. 6A; Fig. 7A is a purely schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of a commercial vehicle in an area directly behind a front axle of the commercial vehicle, viewed from the front; Fig. 7B is a purely schematic horizontal sectional view of a section of a commercial vehicle in an area between a front axle and a rear axle of the commercial vehicle, viewed from above, according to the embodiment of Fig. 7A; Fig. 8A is a purely schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of a commercial vehicle in an area directly behind a front axle of the commercial vehicle, viewed from the front; and Fig. 8B is a purely schematic horizontal sectional view of a section of a commercial vehicle in an area between a front axle and a rear axle of the commercial vehicle, viewed from above, according to the embodiment of Fig. 8A.

[0037] The embodiments shown in the figures correspond at least partially, so that similar or identical parts are provided with the same reference numerals and for their explanation reference is also made to the description of the other embodiments or figures in order to avoid repetition.

[0038] The Fig. 1 shows a commercial vehicle 10. The commercial vehicle 10 is preferably designed as a truck, as shown. The truck may, for example, have a body, e.g., a loading body (not shown in Fig. 1). Alternatively, the truck may have a fifth wheel coupling for coupling a semi-trailer (not shown in Fig. 1). It is also possible for the commercial vehicle 10 to be designed, for example, as a bus.

[0039] The commercial vehicle 10 may have a vehicle frame 12. The body or semi-trailer may be supported on the vehicle frame 12. The vehicle frame 12 may preferably be designed as a ladder frame if the commercial vehicle 10 is designed as a truck. The ladder frame may, for example, have two substantially parallel main longitudinal members. The two main longitudinal members may be connected to one another by a plurality of cross members. The plurality of cross members may be spaced apart from one another along a longitudinal axis of the commercial vehicle. Alternatively, the vehicle frame 12 may, for example, be designed as a lattice frame, e.g., if the commercial vehicle is designed as a truck or a bus.

[0040] The commercial vehicle 10 is electrically driven. For example, the commercial vehicle 10 can be driven by a central electric drive. The central electric drive can be arranged, for example, below the driver's cab and / or between the two main longitudinal members of the vehicle frame 12. Alternatively, the commercial vehicle 10 can be driven, for example, by multiple electric wheel hub drives or multiple electric drives located close to the wheels.

[0041] The commercial vehicle 10 has a front axle 14, a rear axle 16, a side panel 18, and a charging socket 20. Optionally, the commercial vehicle 10 can have a fender 22, a fender 24, and / or a traction battery 26.

[0042] The side panel 18 is arranged between the front axle 14 and the rear axle 16. The side panel 18 covers a section of a longitudinal side (e.g., the driver's side or passenger's side) of the commercial vehicle 10. Preferably, the side panel 18 covers substantially an entire section of the longitudinal side of the commercial vehicle 10 between the front axle 14 and the rear axle 16. For example, the side panel is designed as a full side panel.

[0043] The side panel 18 can extend substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the commercial vehicle 10. The side panel is preferably arranged at the level of the front axle 14, the rear axle 16, and / or the vehicle frame 12. The side panel 18 is preferably plate-shaped. Advantageously, the side panel 18 is vertically oriented.

[0044] The side panel 18 can, for example, have a substantially plate-shaped crash structure for the targeted dissipation of crash energy. The crash structure can, for example, have a profiled shape, such as a honeycomb structure or wave profile, etc. Preferably, the crash structure can extend substantially over the entire height and / or length of the side panel 18.

[0045] The charging socket 20 is designed to connect an electrical charging cable, preferably for external charging of the traction battery 26. The charging socket 20 is arranged behind the side panel 18, as shown in Fig. 1 is indicated by the dotted outline. Preferably, the charging socket 20 is arranged behind the side panel in a non-use position of the charging socket 20. Alternatively or additionally, the charging socket 20 can be arranged behind the side panel in a normal position, use position, or closed position of the side panel 18. The charging socket 20 can be attached or carried on a fender support, the side panel 18, and / or the traction battery.

[0046] The fender 22 can be assigned to the front axle 14. The fender 22 can be carried by the fender carrier, which, for example, also carries the charging socket. The fender 24 can be assigned to the rear axle 16. The side panel 18 can be arranged behind the fender 22 and / or in front of the fender 24 with respect to a forward direction of travel of the commercial vehicle 10. The side panel 18 can be arranged between the fender 22 and the fender 24. The side panel 18 can extend from the fender 22 (e.g., adjacent thereto or with a gap therebetween) to the fender 24 (e.g., adjacent thereto or with a gap therebetween). It is possible for the side panel 18 to have a fender section for a wheel of the front axle 14. It is also possible for the side panel 18 to have a fender section for a wheel of the rear axle 16.

[0047] The traction battery 26 can be concealed behind the side panel 18. For example, the traction battery 26 can be arranged between the vehicle frame 12 and the side panel 18 with respect to a transverse axis of the commercial vehicle 10. The traction battery 26 can be attached to the vehicle frame 12, preferably on an outer longitudinal side of one of the main longitudinal members of the vehicle frame 12. The side panel 18 can be supported or attached to the traction battery 26, preferably on a (e.g., longitudinal) side surface of the traction battery 26 that faces away from the vehicle frame 12 or outward.

[0048] The traction battery 26 can be arranged next to the charging socket 20. Preferably, the traction battery 26 can be arranged (e.g., directly) behind or (e.g., directly) in front of the charging socket 20 with respect to a forward direction of travel. The traction battery 26 and the charging socket 20 can be aligned flush.

[0049] To make the charging socket 20 accessible for connecting the electrical charging cable, the invention provides that the charging socket 20 and / or the side panel 18 is adjustable or movable, preferably displaceable or pivotable, e.g., completely, partially, or in certain areas.

[0050] Preferably, the charging socket 20 can be movable between a non-use position and a use position. In the non-use position, the charging socket 20 can preferably be concealed behind the side panel 18. In the use position, the charging socket 20 can be accessible for connecting the electrical charging cable.

[0051] For example, the charging socket 20 can be pivotable about an axis that is substantially parallel to a vertical axis or a longitudinal axis of the commercial vehicle 10. It is also possible for the charging socket 20 to be displaceable upwards or downwards, preferably to protrude beyond a top or bottom side of the side panel 18. The charging socket 20 can be attached to the side panel 18 and movable, preferably displaceable or pivotable, together with the side panel 18. The charging socket 20 can be displaceable substantially parallel to a transverse axis of the commercial vehicle 10.

[0052] Preferably, the side panel 18 can be movable between a use position, or normal position, or closed position, and an open position, or charging position. In the use position, the side panel 18 can conceal the charging socket 20. In the open position, the side panel 18 can make the charging socket 20 accessible for connecting the electrical charging cable.

[0053] For example, the side panel 18 can be pivoted upward or downward, e.g., about an axis substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the commercial vehicle 10. It is possible for the maximum pivot angle between the use position and the open position of the side panel 18 to be less than 45°, preferably less than 30°, particularly preferably less than 20°.

[0054] Depending on how the side panel 18 and / or the charging socket 20 is movable, the charging socket 20 can be designed to connect the electrical charging cable to a top side, bottom side, front side (with respect to the forward direction of travel), rear side (with respect to the forward direction of travel) and / or longitudinal outer side (with respect to the forward direction of travel) of the charging socket 20.

[0055] Some particularly preferred embodiments for configuring the charging socket 20 and the side panel 18 are described below. These embodiments can be combined with each other. Each embodiment is illustrated with two figures xA and xB (x = 2 ... 8). Figures xA each show a view of the charging socket 20 and the side panel 18 viewed opposite the forward direction of travel. Figures xB each show a view of the charging socket 20 and the side panel 18 from above. In addition to Fig. 1, the electric charging cable 28 and the body or semi-trailer 30 of the commercial vehicle 10 are also shown in Figures xA. The body or semi-trailer 30 is arranged above the charging socket 20 and the traction battery 26.

[0056] The Fig. 2A and Fig. 2B shows an embodiment in which the side panel 18 can be pivoted downward about an axis 32. The side panel 18 can be pivoted downward from the use position to the open position. The axis 32 is parallel to a longitudinal axis of the commercial vehicle 10. A maximum pivot angle can be, for example, ≤ 45°, preferably ≤ 20°.

[0057] The charging socket 20 can be pivoted outward about an axis 34. The charging socket 20 can be pivoted outward from the non-use position to the use position (shown in dashed lines). The axis 34 is essentially parallel to a vertical axis of the commercial vehicle 10. A maximum pivot angle can be, for example, ≤ 180°.

[0058] The charging cable 28 can be connected to a top side of the charging socket 20 when the side panel 18 is in the open position and the charging socket 20 is in the use position.

[0059] The Fig. 3A and Fig. 3B shows an embodiment in which the side panel 18 can be pivoted downward about an axis 32. The side panel 18 can be pivoted downward from the use position to the open position. The axis 32 is parallel to a longitudinal axis of the commercial vehicle 10. A maximum pivot angle can be, for example, ≤ 45°, preferably ≤ 20°.

[0060] The charging socket 20 is attached to the side panel 18, preferably to a rear side of the side panel 18. The charging socket 20, together with the side panel 18, can be pivoted between a non-use position and a use position (shown in dashed lines). In the use position of the side panel 18, the charging socket 20 is in the non-use position. In the open position of the side panel 18, the charging socket 20 is in the use position.

[0061] The charging cable 28 can be connected to a top side of the charging socket 20 when the side panel 18 is in the open position and the charging socket 20 is in the use position.

[0062] The Fig. 4A and Fig. 4B shows an embodiment in which the side panel 18 can be pivoted downward about an axis 32. The side panel 18 can be pivoted downward from the use position to the open position. The axis 32 is parallel to a longitudinal axis of the commercial vehicle 10. A maximum pivot angle can be, for example, ≤ 45°, preferably ≤ 20°.

[0063] The charging socket 20 can be pivoted outward while maintaining its alignment or orientation. The charging socket 20 can be pivoted outward from the non-use position to the use position (shown in dashed lines). At least one pivot arm 36 can be provided. At one end of the pivot arm 36, the at least one pivot arm 36 is pivotally mounted about an axis 38. The axis 38 can be substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the commercial vehicle 10. The axis 38 can be fixed to the frame or chassis. At an opposite end of the at least one pivot arm 36, the at least one pivot arm 36 supports the charging socket 20 so that it can pivot about an axis 40. The axis 40 can be substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the commercial vehicle 10. A maximum pivoting angle of the at least one pivoting arm 36 about the axis 38 can be, for example, ≤ 90°, preferably ≤ 45°.

[0064] The charging cable 28 can be connected to a top, a front or a back of the charging socket 20 when the side panel 18 is in the open position and the charging socket 20 is in the use position.

[0065] The Fig. 5A and Fig. 5B shows an embodiment in which the side panel 18 can be pivoted downward about an axis 32. The side panel 18 can be pivoted downward from the use position to the open position. The axis 32 is parallel to a longitudinal axis of the commercial vehicle 10. A maximum pivot angle can be, for example, ≤ 45°, preferably ≤ 20°.

[0066] The charging socket 20 can be pivoted outward about an axis 42. The charging socket 20 can be pivoted outward from the non-use position to the use position (shown in dashed lines). The axis 42 is essentially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the commercial vehicle 10. A maximum pivot angle can be, for example, ≤ 45°.

[0067] The charging cable 28 can be connected to a top side of the charging socket 20 when the side panel 18 is in the open position and the charging socket 20 is in the use position.

[0068] The Fig. 6A and Fig. 6B show an embodiment in which the side panel 18 is immovably or firmly attached.

[0069] The charging socket 20 can be moved upwards, preferably essentially parallel to a vertical axis of the commercial vehicle 10. The charging socket 20 can be moved upwards from the non-use position to the use position (shown in dashed lines). In the use position, the charging socket 20 protrudes beyond the side panel 18.

[0070] The charging cable 28 can be connected to a long side of the charging socket 20 when the charging socket 20 is in the use position.

[0071] The Fig. 7A and Fig. 7B show an embodiment in which the side panel 18 can be pivoted downward about an axis 32. The side panel 18 can be pivoted downward from the use position to the open position. The axis 32 is parallel to a longitudinal axis of the commercial vehicle 10. A maximum pivot angle can be, for example, ≤ 45°, preferably ≤ 20°.

[0072] The charging socket 20 can be displaced outwardly, essentially parallel to a transverse axis of the commercial vehicle 10. The charging socket 20 can be displaced outwardly from the non-use position to the use position (shown in dashed lines), e.g., along a longitudinal guide or by means of a (e.g., telescopic) extension.

[0073] The charging cable 28 can be connected to a top, a front or a back of the charging socket 20 when the side panel 18 is in the open position and the charging socket 20 is in the use position.

[0074] The Fig. 8A and Fig. 8B show an embodiment in which the side panel 18 is immovably or permanently attached. The side panel 18 has an openable flap 44. The flap 44 can be pivoted, for example, upwards, downwards, or to the side. The flap 44 can be pivoted between a closed position and an open position. In the open position of the flap 44, the charging socket 20 is accessible for connecting the charging cable 28. In the closed position of the flap 44, the charging socket 20 is covered by the flap 44 and is not accessible.

[0075] The invention is not limited to the preferred embodiments described above. Rather, a multitude of variants and modifications are possible which also make use of the inventive concept and therefore fall within the scope of protection. In particular, the invention also claims protection for the subject matter and features of the subclaims, independent of the claims referred to. In particular, the individual features of independent claim 1 are each disclosed independently of one another. In addition, the features of the subclaims are also disclosed independently of all features of independent claim 1 and, for example, independently of the features relating to the presence and / or configuration of the front axle, the rear axle, the side panel, and / or the charging socket of independent claim 1.All ranges stated herein are to be understood as being disclosed in such a way that all values ​​falling within the respective range are disclosed individually, e.g., also as preferred narrower outer limits of the respective range. List of reference symbols 10 commercial vehicles 12 vehicle frames 14 front axle 16 Rear axle 18 Side panel 20 charging sockets 22 fenders 24 fenders 26 Traction battery 28 electrical charging cable 30 body or trailer 32 Axis 34 Axis 36 swivel arm 38 Axis 40 axis 42 Axis 44 flap

Claims

[1] Commercial vehicle (10), preferably a truck or bus, comprising: a front axle (14); a rear axle (16); a preferably substantially plate-shaped side panel (18) arranged between the front axle (14) and the rear axle (16) and covering a portion of a longitudinal side of the commercial vehicle (10); and a charging socket (20) for connecting an electrical charging cable (28), wherein the charging socket (20) is arranged concealed behind the side panel (18); wherein: the side panel (18) is movable, preferably pivotable or displaceable, to make the charging socket (20) accessible for connecting the electrical charging cable (28); and / or the charging socket (20) is movable, preferably pivotable or displaceable, to make the charging socket (20) accessible for connecting the electrical charging cable (28). [2] Commercial vehicle (10) according to claim 1, wherein: the side panel (18) covers substantially an entire section of the longitudinal side of the commercial vehicle (10) between the front axle (14) and the rear axle (16); and / or the side panel (18) is designed as a full side panel. [3] Commercial vehicle (10) according to claim 1 or claim 2, further comprising: a traction battery (26) which is concealed behind the side panel (18) and preferably arranged next to the charging socket (20). [4] Commercial vehicle (10) according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising: a body or semi-trailer (30) which covers the charging socket (20) from above and / or is arranged above the charging socket (20). [5] Commercial vehicle (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the following features is fulfilled: the side panel (18) can be pivoted upwards or downwards; the side panel (18) is pivotable about an axis (32) substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the commercial vehicle (10); and a maximum pivot angle between a closed position and an open position of the side panel (18) is less than 45°, preferably less than 30°, particularly preferably less than 20°. [6] Commercial vehicle (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the following features is fulfilled: the charging socket (20) is pivotable about an axis which is substantially parallel to a vertical axis or to a longitudinal axis of the commercial vehicle (10); the charging socket (20) can be moved upwards or downwards; the charging socket (20) is attached to the side panel (18) and is movable, preferably displaceable or pivotable, together with the side panel (18) to make the charging socket (20) accessible for connecting the electrical charging cable (28); and the charging socket (20) is displaceable essentially parallel to a transverse axis of the commercial vehicle (10). [7] Commercial vehicle (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the charging socket (20) is designed such that: the electrical charging cable (28) can be connected to a top or bottom of the charging socket (20); and / or the electrical charging cable (28) can be connected to a front side of the charging socket (20) directed in a forward direction of travel of the commercial vehicle (10); and / or the electrical charging cable (28) can be connected to a rear side of the charging socket (20) facing opposite to a forward direction of travel of the commercial vehicle (10). [8] Commercial vehicle (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein: the side panel (18) can be pivoted downwards about an axis (32) which is substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the commercial vehicle (10); the charging socket (20) can be pivoted outwards about a further axis which is substantially parallel to a vertical axis of the commercial vehicle (10) or substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the commercial vehicle (10); and the charging socket (20) is designed so that the electrical charging cable (28) can be connected to an upper side of the charging socket (20). [9] Commercial vehicle (10) according to one of claims 1 to 7, wherein: the charging socket (20) can be moved upwards; and the charging socket (20) is designed such that the electrical charging cable (28) can be connected to a transverse side of the charging socket (20) directed in a transverse direction of the commercial vehicle (10). [10] Commercial vehicle (10) according to one of claims 1 to 7, wherein: the side panel (18) can be pivoted downwards about an axis (32) which is substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the commercial vehicle (10); the charging socket (20) is attached to the side panel (18) and can be pivoted together with the side panel (18); and the charging socket (20) is designed so that the electrical charging cable (28) can be connected to an upper side of the charging socket (20). [11] Commercial vehicle (10) according to one of claims 1 to 7, wherein: the side panel (18) can be pivoted downwards about an axis (32) which is substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the commercial vehicle (10); the charging socket (20) is displaceable outwards substantially parallel to a transverse axis of the commercial vehicle (10); and the charging socket (20) is designed such that the electrical charging cable (28) can be connected to an upper side of the charging socket (20) or to a front side of the charging socket (20) directed in a forward direction of travel of the commercial vehicle (10) or to a rear side of the charging socket (20) directed opposite a forward direction of travel of the commercial vehicle (10). [12] Commercial vehicle (10) according to one of claims 1 to 7, wherein: the side panel (18) can be pivoted downwards about an axis (32) which is substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the commercial vehicle (10); the charging socket (20) can be pivoted outwards while maintaining its orientation; and the charging socket (20) is designed such that the electrical charging cable (28) can be connected to an upper side of the charging socket (20) or to a front side of the charging socket (20) directed in a forward direction of travel of the commercial vehicle (10) or to a rear side of the charging socket (20) directed opposite a forward direction of travel of the commercial vehicle (10).

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