Saddle-ridden electric vehicle

Abstract

A saddle-ridden electric vehicle 1 comprises a front fork 6, a front wheel 7, a rear wheel 11, an electric motor 8, and a battery pack 20. The front wheel 7 is supported by the lower end of the front fork 6. The rear wheel 11 is disposed behind the front wheel 7. The battery pack 20 supplies electric power to the electric motor 8. The saddle-ridden electric vehicle 1 further includes a front wheel brake 51, a rear wheel brake 55, a hydraulic pressure control unit 70, and a seat 15. The front wheel brake 51 brakes the front wheel 7. The rear wheel brake 55 brakes the rear wheel 11. The hydraulic pressure control unit 70 controls the hydraulic pressure of the front wheel brake 51 and the rear wheel brake 55. A driver can sit on the seat 15. The battery pack 20 is disposed in front of the seat 15. The hydraulic pressure control unit 70 is disposed above the battery pack 20.

Description

Straddle-type electric vehicle

[0001] The present invention relates to a straddle-type electric vehicle provided with a hydraulic control unit.

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a motorcycle. The motorcycle includes a front wheel, a rear wheel, and a hydraulic braking device. The front wheel and the rear wheel are braked by the braking device. The braking device has a front-wheel master cylinder that generates hydraulic pressure by operating a brake lever and a front-wheel brake caliper to which the hydraulic pressure is supplied. Further, the braking device has a rear-wheel master cylinder that generates hydraulic pressure by operating a brake pedal and a rear-wheel brake caliper to which the hydraulic pressure is supplied. The braking device includes a hydraulic control unit that interrupts the supply of hydraulic pressure to the front wheel and the rear wheel when detecting a locking tendency of the front wheel and the rear wheel due to braking.

[0003] The motorcycle has a vehicle body frame, a main seat, and a battery. The vehicle body frame has a head pipe and a front frame that extends rearward and downward from the head pipe to a substantially central portion in the front-rear direction of the motorcycle. The vehicle body frame has a rear frame that is connected to the front frame and extends rearward and upward from the middle of the front frame. The hydraulic control unit is disposed in the vicinity of the connection portion between the front frame and the rear frame. The main seat is disposed so as to cover the upper part of the hydraulic control unit. A battery is located in front of the hydraulic control unit.

[0004] Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2009-90887

[0005] When the hydraulic control unit is disposed below the main seat, the distance between the front-wheel master cylinder and the hydraulic control unit and the distance between the hydraulic control unit and the front-wheel brake caliper are large. Therefore, the brake line for the front wheel is long, and there is a risk that the brake feeling deteriorates.

[0006] The present invention has been made in view of such circumstances, and an object thereof is to provide a straddle-type electric vehicle that can easily improve the brake feeling.

[0007] To achieve this objective, the present invention has the following configuration. That is, the present invention is a saddle-type electric vehicle comprising: a head pipe; a front fork rotatably supported by the head pipe; a front wheel supported at the lower end of the front fork; a rear wheel positioned behind the front wheel; an electric motor for driving the rear wheel; a battery pack for supplying power to the electric motor; a front braking mechanism for braking the front wheel; a rear braking mechanism for braking the rear wheel; a hydraulic pressure control unit for controlling the hydraulic pressure of the front braking mechanism and the rear braking mechanism; and a seat on which a driver can sit, wherein the battery pack is positioned in front of the seat and the hydraulic pressure control unit is positioned above the battery pack.

[0008] A saddle-type electric vehicle comprises a head pipe, a front fork, a front wheel, a rear wheel, an electric motor, and a battery pack. The front fork is rotatably supported by the head pipe. The front wheel is supported at the lower end of the front fork. The rear wheel is positioned behind the front wheel. The electric motor drives the rear wheel. The battery pack supplies power to the electric motor. Furthermore, the saddle-type electric vehicle comprises a front braking mechanism, a rear braking mechanism, a hydraulic control unit, and a seat. The front braking mechanism brakes the front wheel. The rear braking mechanism brakes the rear wheel. The hydraulic control unit controls the hydraulic pressure of the front and rear braking mechanisms. A driver can sit on the seat. The battery pack is positioned in front of the seat. The hydraulic control unit is positioned above the battery pack. Therefore, for example, the distance between the front braking mechanism and the hydraulic control unit can be made relatively small. Thus, it is easy to improve the braking feel.

[0009] In the saddle-type electric vehicle described above, it is preferable that the hydraulic control unit is positioned in front of the rear end of the battery pack. Therefore, for example, the distance between the front braking mechanism and the hydraulic control unit can be made smaller. Thus, it becomes easier to improve the braking feel.

[0010] In the aforementioned saddle-type electric vehicle, it is preferable that the electric motor is positioned below the battery pack. This allows the heavy battery pack and electric motor to be positioned near the center in the front-to-rear direction of the saddle-type electric vehicle. Thus, it is easy to improve the weight balance of the saddle-type electric vehicle.

[0011] In the saddle-type electric vehicle described above, it is preferable that the hydraulic control unit is positioned in front of the rear end of the electric motor. Therefore, for example, the distance between the front braking mechanism and the hydraulic control unit can be made smaller. Thus, it becomes easier to improve the braking feel.

[0012] In the saddle-type electric vehicle described above, it is preferable that the hydraulic control unit is fixed to the battery pack. For this reason, it is easy to fix the hydraulic control unit in a position away from the main frame, for example.

[0013] In the aforementioned saddle-type electric vehicle, it is preferable that the hydraulic control unit is positioned so as to overlap with the battery pack in a plan view of the saddle-type electric vehicle. This allows the heavy hydraulic control unit to be positioned near the center in the width direction of the saddle-type electric vehicle. Thus, it is easy to improve the weight balance of the saddle-type electric vehicle.

[0014] In the saddle-type electric vehicle described above, it is preferable that the saddle-type electric vehicle comprises a handle connected to the upper end of the front fork, a right operating unit positioned to the right of the handle, and a right pipe connecting the right operating unit and the hydraulic control unit. This allows the length of the right pipe to be made relatively short. Therefore, it is easier to improve the braking feel.

[0015] In the aforementioned saddle-type electric vehicle, the saddle-type electric vehicle comprises a left operating unit located to the left of the handle, and a left pipe connecting the left operating unit and the hydraulic control unit, and it is preferable that the length of the right pipe and the length of the left pipe are the same. Therefore, the right pipe and the left pipe can be made to the same specifications. Thus, cost reduction is easy.

[0016] In the saddle-type electric vehicle described above, it is preferable that the upper end of the battery pack is positioned above the seat. Therefore, it is easy to increase the storage capacity of the battery pack.

[0017] In the saddle-type electric vehicle described above, it is preferable that the battery pack has an upper surface, the upper surface includes a first surface and a second surface, the first surface is located below the second surface, and the hydraulic control unit is located on the first surface. Therefore, it is easy to prevent the handle and the hydraulic control unit from coming into contact when the handle is turned.

[0018] In the saddle-type electric vehicle described above, it is preferable that the first surface is located in front of the second surface. As described above, the first surface is located below the second surface. Therefore, even when the first surface is located in front of the second surface, it is easy to prevent the handle from coming into contact with the hydraulic control unit when the handle is turned.

[0019] In the aforementioned saddle-type electric vehicle, it is preferable that the saddle-type electric vehicle has a main frame extending rearward from the head pipe, and that the battery pack is bolted to the main frame. Under normal circumstances, there is no need to remove the battery pack from the main frame. Therefore, components other than the battery pack can be placed near the battery pack. For this reason, it is easy to place the hydraulic control unit above the battery pack.

[0020] In the aforementioned saddle-type electric vehicle, it is preferable that the saddle-type electric vehicle is equipped with a transformer that changes the voltage of the electricity supplied from an external power source, that the transformer is electrically connected to the battery pack, and that the transformer is positioned above the battery pack. Therefore, it is easy to efficiently utilize the space above the battery pack.

[0021] In the saddle-type electric vehicle described above, it is preferable that the saddle-type electric vehicle is equipped with a transformer that changes the voltage of the electricity supplied from an external power source, that the transformer is electrically connected to the battery pack, and that the transformer is located on the second surface. Therefore, it is easy to efficiently utilize the space above the battery pack.

[0022] In the aforementioned saddle-type electric vehicle, it is preferable that the saddle-type electric vehicle is equipped with a connection part that can be connected to the external power supply, and that the connection part is electrically connected to the transformer. Therefore, charging the battery pack is easy.

[0023] According to the saddle-type electric vehicle of the present invention, it is easy to improve the braking feel.

[0024] This is a left side view of a saddle-type electric vehicle according to an embodiment. This is a left side view of a part of the saddle-type electric vehicle. This is a right side view of a part of the saddle-type electric vehicle. This is a top view of a part of the saddle-type electric vehicle. This is a perspective view of a part of the saddle-type electric vehicle.

[0025] The saddle-type electric vehicle according to the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

[0026] 1. The schematic diagram 1 of the saddle-type electric vehicle 1 is a left side view of the saddle-type electric vehicle 1 according to this embodiment. The schematic configuration of the saddle-type electric vehicle 1 will now be described.

[0027] Figure 1 shows the longitudinal direction X, width direction Y, and vertical direction Z of the saddle-type electric vehicle 1. The longitudinal direction X, width direction Y, and vertical direction Z are defined relative to the driver (also called the rider) riding in the saddle-type electric vehicle 1. The longitudinal direction X, width direction Y, and vertical direction Z are orthogonal to each other. The longitudinal direction X and width direction Y are horizontal. The vertical direction Z is vertical.

[0028] "Forward," "rear," "upward," "downward," "right," and "left" refer to the directions "forward," "rear," "upward," "downward," "right," and "left," respectively, from the perspective of the driver riding in the saddle-type electric vehicle 1. Unless otherwise specified in this specification, "forward" and "rear" include not only directions parallel to the longitudinal direction X, but also directions close to the longitudinal direction X. Directions close to the longitudinal direction X are, for example, directions with an angle of 45 degrees or less with respect to the longitudinal direction X. Similarly, unless otherwise specified, "right" and "left" include not only directions parallel to the width direction Y, but also directions close to the width direction Y. Unless otherwise specified, "upward" and "downward" include not only directions parallel to the vertical direction Z, but also directions close to the vertical direction Z. In each figure, FRONT, REAR, UP, DOWN, RIGHT, and LEFT are shown as appropriate for reference.

[0029] In this specification, "in a side view of the saddle-type electric vehicle 1" will be appropriately referred to as "in a side view of the vehicle." "in a top view of the saddle-type electric vehicle 1" will be appropriately referred to as "in a top view of the vehicle." "in a front view of the saddle-type electric vehicle 1" will be appropriately referred to as "in a front view of the vehicle."

[0030] The saddle-type electric vehicle 1 comprises a body frame 2. The body frame 2 comprises a head pipe 3, a main frame 4, and a down frame 5. The head pipe 3 is located at the front end of the body frame 2. The main frame 4 is connected to the head pipe 3. In a side view of the vehicle, the main frame 4 extends rearward from the head pipe 3. In a side view of the vehicle, the main frame 4 extends rearward and downward from the head pipe 3. The down frame 5 is located below the main frame 4 in a side view of the vehicle. In a side view of the vehicle, the down frame 5 extends rearward and downward from the head pipe 3. The rear of the main frame 4 is connected to the rear of the down frame 5.

[0031] The saddle-type electric vehicle 1 is equipped with a front fork 6. The front fork 6 is rotatably supported by the head pipe 3. In a side view of the vehicle, the front fork 6 extends forward and downward from the head pipe 3. The front fork 6 is rotatable relative to the vehicle frame 2.

[0032] The saddle-type electric vehicle 1 is equipped with a front wheel 7. The front wheel 7 is supported by the lower end of the front fork 6.

[0033] The saddle-type electric vehicle 1 is equipped with an electric motor 8. The electric motor 8 propels the saddle-type electric vehicle 1. The electric motor 8 converts electricity into power for propulsion of the saddle-type electric vehicle 1. The electric motor 8 outputs power. The electric motor 8 is supported by the vehicle frame 2.

[0034] The electric motor 8 is fixed to the vehicle frame 2, for example. The electric motor 8 is immovable relative to the vehicle frame 2, for example. The electric motor 8 is an AC motor, for example.

[0035] The saddle-type electric vehicle 1 is equipped with a handlebar 9. The handlebar 9 is supported on the upper part of the front fork 6. The handlebar 9 is connected to the upper end of the front fork 6.

[0036] The saddle-type electric vehicle 1 is equipped with a swing arm 10. The swing arm 10 is positioned behind the electric motor 8. The swing arm 10 is supported by the vehicle frame 2. The swing arm 10 is pivotable relative to the vehicle frame 2. The swing arm 10 extends rearward from the vehicle frame 2.

[0037] The saddle-type electric vehicle 1 is equipped with a rear wheel 11. The rear wheel 11 is positioned behind the front wheel 7. The rear wheel 11 is supported at the rear of the swing arm 10. The rear wheel 11 is driven by the rotation of an electric motor 8.

[0038] The saddle-type electric vehicle 1 is equipped with a power transmission mechanism 12. The power transmission mechanism 12 transmits power from the electric motor 8 to the rear wheels 11. The power transmission mechanism 12 includes, for example, at least one of a chain, a belt, and a drive shaft.

[0039] The saddle-type electric vehicle 1 is equipped with a side cover 13. The right part of the side cover 13 is positioned to the right of the vehicle frame 2. The left part of the side cover 13 is positioned to the left of the vehicle frame 2. In a side view of the vehicle, the side cover 13 overlaps with at least a portion of the vehicle frame 2.

[0040] The right side of the side cover 13 is positioned to the right of the electric motor 8. The left side of the side cover 13 is positioned to the left of the electric motor 8. In a side view of the vehicle, the side cover 13 overlaps with at least a portion of the electric motor 8.

[0041] The saddle-type electric vehicle 1 is equipped with an upper cover 14. The upper cover 14 is positioned behind the front fork 6. The upper cover 14 is positioned above the electric motor 8. The upper cover 14 is positioned above the side cover 13. At least a portion of the upper cover 14 is positioned above the vehicle frame 2. The upper cover 14 is supported by the vehicle frame 2.

[0042] The saddle-type electric vehicle 1 is equipped with a seat 15. The seat 15 is positioned behind the upper cover 14. In a side view of the vehicle, the seat 15 is positioned at the same height as the upper cover 14. The seat 15 is positioned above the swing arm 10. Although not shown in the illustration, at least a portion of the seat 15 overlaps with the swing arm 10 in a top view of the vehicle. A driver can sit on the seat 15.

[0043] The schematic internal configuration of the saddle-type electric vehicle 1 will be described with reference to Figures 2, 3, 4, and 5. Figure 2 is a left side view of a part of the saddle-type electric vehicle 1. Figure 3 is a right side view of a part of the saddle-type electric vehicle 1. Figure 4 is a top view of a part of the saddle-type electric vehicle 1. In Figure 4, the vehicle centerline C in the width direction Y is schematically shown. The vehicle centerline C is a virtual line in a plane that passes through the center of the saddle-type electric vehicle 1 and is perpendicular to the width direction Y. Figure 5 is a perspective view of a part of the saddle-type electric vehicle 1.

[0044] Refer to FIGS. 2 and 3. The saddle-riding type electric vehicle 1 includes an MCU (Motor Control Unit) 16, a battery pack 20, an in-vehicle charger 30, and an inlet 40. The MCU 16 is disposed in front of the electric motor 8. The MCU 16 is disposed below the battery pack 20. The MCU 16 is electrically connected to the electric motor 8. The MCU 16 is electrically connected to the battery pack 20. The MCU 16 transforms the electricity supplied from the battery pack 20. The MCU 16 outputs the transformed electricity to the electric motor 8. The MCU 16 controls the operation of the electric motor 8.

[0045] The battery pack 20 is disposed behind the head pipe 3. The battery pack 20 is disposed behind the front fork 6. The battery pack 20 is disposed in front of the seat 15. The battery pack 20 is disposed above the electric motor 8. The electric motor 8 is disposed below the battery pack 20. The battery pack 20 is disposed above the MCU 16. At least a part of the battery pack 20 overlaps the vehicle body frame 2 in a side view of the vehicle.

[0046] The battery pack 20 has a plurality of battery cells (not shown) inside. The battery pack 20 is electrically connected to the electric motor 8 via the MCU 16. The battery pack 20 supplies power to the electric motor 8.

[0047] The battery pack 20 includes an upper cover 21 and a lower cover 25. The battery cells are housed in the internal space formed by the upper cover 21 and the lower cover 25. The upper cover 21 has high strength and rigidity. For example, the upper cover 21 is formed by die-casting of aluminum. Therefore, the upper cover 21 can stably support the components fixed to the upper cover 21.

[0048] The upper cover 21 has an upper surface 22. The battery pack 20 has the upper surface 22. The upper surface 22 is located above the vehicle body frame 2. The upper surface 22 does not overlap the vehicle body frame 2 in a side view of the vehicle. The upper surface 22 includes a first surface 23 and a second surface 24. The first surface 23 is located in front of the second surface 24. The first surface 23 is located below the second surface 24.

[0049] The battery pack 20 has a rear end 26.

[0050] The battery pack 20 is fixed to the vehicle frame 2 with bolts B. For example, the battery pack 20 is fixed to the main frame 4 with bolts B. For example, the battery pack 20 is fixed to the down frame 5 with bolts B. For example, the battery pack 20 is fixed to both the main frame 4 and the down frame 5 with bolts B.

[0051] Although not shown in the diagram, the battery pack 20 is located below the upper cover 14. The upper cover 14 is located above the battery pack 20. The entire battery pack 20 overlaps with the upper cover 14 in a top view of the vehicle. The battery pack 20 is located to the right of the left side of the upper cover 14. The battery pack 20 is located to the left of the right side of the upper cover 14. At least a portion of the battery pack 20 overlaps with the upper cover 14 in a side view of the vehicle.

[0052] Refer to Figure 2. The onboard charger 30 is positioned above the battery pack 20. For example, the onboard charger 30 is positioned on the second surface 24. As described above, the upper surface 22, including the second surface 24, does not overlap with the vehicle frame 2 in a side view of the vehicle. Therefore, the onboard charger 30 does not overlap with the vehicle frame 2 in a side view of the vehicle. The onboard charger 30 is electrically connected to the battery pack 20. The onboard charger 30 changes the voltage of the electricity supplied from an external power source. The onboard charger 30 charges the battery pack 20.

[0053] The on-board charger 30 corresponds to the transformer of the present invention.

[0054] Refer to Figures 2, 3, and 4. The inlet 40 is located above the battery pack 20. The inlet 40 is located in front of the on-board charger 30. For example, the inlet 40 is located on the first surface 23. As described above, the upper surface 22, including the first surface 23, does not overlap with the vehicle frame 2 in a side view of the vehicle. Therefore, the inlet 40 does not overlap with the vehicle frame 2 in a side view of the vehicle. For example, the inlet 40 is located to the left of the vehicle centerline C. The inlet 40 is electrically connected to the on-board charger 30. The inlet 40 can be connected to an external power source. A power plug provided at the end of a cable extending from an external power source is inserted into the inlet 40. As a result, with the power plug of the external power source connected to the inlet 40, power from the external power source is supplied to the battery pack 20 via the on-board charger 30, and the battery pack 20 is charged.

[0055] The inlet 40 corresponds to the connection part of the present invention.

[0056] 2. Refer to the schematic diagrams 2, 3, 4, and 5 of the brake system. The saddle-type electric vehicle 1 is equipped with a brake system 50. The brake system 50 includes a front wheel brake 51, a rear wheel brake 55, a right operating unit 60, and a left operating unit 65. The front wheel brake 51 includes a front wheel brake disc 52 and a front wheel brake caliper 53. The front wheel brake disc 52 is fixed to the front wheel 7. The front wheel brake disc 52 rotates integrally with the front wheel 7.

[0057] The front brake caliper 53 is supported by the front fork 6. For example, the front brake caliper 53 is supported by one of the front forks 6. The front brake caliper 53 brakes the rotation of the front brake disc 52 by the hydraulic pressure of the brake fluid. For example, the front brake caliper 53 has brake pads (not shown) that can contact both sides of the front brake disc 52. The brake pads are pressed against both sides of the front brake disc 52 by the hydraulic pressure of the brake fluid. This brakes the rotation of the front brake disc 52. Thus, the front brake 51 brakes the front wheel 7.

[0058] The front brake 51 corresponds to the front braking mechanism of the present invention.

[0059] The rear brake 55 comprises a rear brake disc 56 and a rear brake caliper 57. The rear brake disc 56 is fixed to the rear wheel 11. The rear brake disc 56 rotates integrally with the rear wheel 11. The rear brake caliper 57 is supported by the swingarm 10. For example, the rear brake caliper 57 is supported by one of the swingarms 10. The rear brake caliper 57 brakes the rotation of the rear brake disc 56 by the hydraulic pressure of the brake fluid. For example, the rear brake caliper 57 has brake pads (not shown) that can contact both sides of the rear brake disc 56. The brake pads are pressed against both sides of the rear brake disc 56 by the hydraulic pressure of the brake fluid. This brakes the rotation of the rear brake disc 56. Thus, the rear brake 55 brakes the rear wheel 11.

[0060] The rear brake 55 corresponds to the rear braking mechanism of the present invention.

[0061] Refer to Figure 3. The brake system 50 comprises a front pipe 54 and a rear pipe 58. The front pipe 54 is connected to the front wheel brake caliper 53. At least a portion of the front pipe 54 is flexible. For example, the front pipe 54 is a brake hose.

[0062] The rear pipe 58 is connected to the rear wheel brake caliper 57. At least a portion of the rear pipe 58 is flexible. For example, the rear pipe 58 is a brake hose.

[0063] Refer to Figure 4. The right operating unit 60 is located on the right side of the handle 9. The right operating unit 60 comprises a right brake lever 61, a right master cylinder 62, a right reservoir tank 63, and a right pipe 64. The right master cylinder 62 generates hydraulic pressure for the brake fluid when the right brake lever 61 is operated. The right master cylinder 62 is fixed to the handle 9. The right master cylinder 62 is located near the right brake lever 61.

[0064] Refer to Figure 5. The right reservoir tank 63 is positioned above the right master cylinder 62. The right reservoir tank 63 stores brake fluid. The right reservoir tank 63 is connected to the right master cylinder 62. The right reservoir tank 63 supplies brake fluid into the right master cylinder 62. The right reservoir tank 63 collects brake fluid from the right master cylinder 62.

[0065] The right pipe 64 is connected to the right master cylinder 62. At least a portion of the right pipe 64 is flexible. For example, the right pipe 64 is a brake hose.

[0066] The left operating unit 65 is located on the left side of the handlebar 9. The left operating unit 65 comprises a left brake lever 66, a left master cylinder 67, a left reservoir tank 68, and a left pipe 69. The left master cylinder 67 generates hydraulic pressure for the brake fluid when the left brake lever 66 is operated. The left master cylinder 67 is fixed to the handlebar 9. The left master cylinder 67 is located near the left brake lever 66.

[0067] The left reservoir tank 68 is positioned above the left master cylinder 67. The left reservoir tank 68 stores brake fluid. The left reservoir tank 68 is connected to the left master cylinder 67. The left reservoir tank 68 supplies brake fluid into the left master cylinder 67. The left reservoir tank 68 collects brake fluid from the left master cylinder 67.

[0068] The left pipe 69 is connected to the left master cylinder 67. At least a portion of the left pipe 69 is flexible. For example, the left pipe 69 is a brake hose.

[0069] Refer to Figures 3 and 4. The brake system 50 includes a hydraulic control unit 70. The hydraulic control unit 70 controls the hydraulic pressure of the front brake 51 and the rear brake 55. The hydraulic control unit 70 is positioned behind the head pipe 3. The hydraulic control unit 70 does not overlap with the head pipe 3 in a side view of the vehicle. The hydraulic control unit 70 is positioned behind the front fork 6. The hydraulic control unit 70 does not overlap with the front fork 6 in a side view of the vehicle.

[0070] The hydraulic control unit 70 is positioned in front of the seat 15. At least a portion of the hydraulic control unit 70 is positioned above the entirety of the seat 15. The hydraulic control unit 70 does not overlap with the seat 15 when viewed from the side of the vehicle.

[0071] The hydraulic control unit 70 is positioned above the vehicle frame 2. The hydraulic control unit 70 does not overlap with the vehicle frame 2 in a side view of the vehicle. The hydraulic control unit 70 is positioned above the main frame 4. The hydraulic control unit 70 does not overlap with the main frame 4 in a side view of the vehicle.

[0072] The hydraulic control unit 70 is positioned above the battery pack 20. For example, the hydraulic control unit 70 is positioned on the first surface 23 of the battery pack 20. The hydraulic control unit 70 is positioned in front of the rear end 26 of the battery pack 20. The entire hydraulic control unit 70 is positioned in front of the rear end 26 of the battery pack 20. In a plan view of the saddle-type electric vehicle 1, the hydraulic control unit 70 is positioned to overlap with the battery pack 20. For example, in a plan view of the saddle-type electric vehicle 1, the entire hydraulic control unit 70 is positioned to overlap with the battery pack 20.

[0073] The hydraulic control unit 70 is positioned in front of the rear end of the electric motor 8. All components of the hydraulic control unit 70 are positioned in front of the rear end of the electric motor 8.

[0074] The hydraulic control unit 70 is fixed to the battery pack 20. For example, the hydraulic control unit 70 is fixed to the battery pack 20 via sheet metal and rubber (not shown).

[0075] Refer to Figures 4 and 5. The hydraulic control unit 70 comprises a hydraulic control unit main body 70a, a first connection part 71, a second connection part 72, a third connection part 73, and a fourth connection part 74. The hydraulic control unit main body 70a is positioned to the right of the vehicle centerline C. In a plan view of the vehicle, the hydraulic control unit main body 70a does not overlap with the vehicle centerline C.

[0076] The first connection portion 71 and the second connection portion 72 extend in the width direction Y (left) from the main body portion 70a of the hydraulic control unit to the vicinity of the vehicle centerline C. Then, the first connection portion 71 and the second connection portion 72 bend near the vehicle centerline C and extend forward. The third connection portion 73 extends forward from the main body portion 70a of the hydraulic control unit. The fourth connection portion 74 extends rearward from the main body portion 70a of the hydraulic control unit.

[0077] The right pipe 64 is connected to the first connection part 71. Therefore, the right pipe 64 connects the right operating unit 60 and the hydraulic control unit 70. The right pipe 64 transmits the hydraulic pressure of the brake fluid generated in the right operating unit 60 to the hydraulic control unit 70. The first connection part 71 inputs the hydraulic pressure of the brake fluid generated by the operation of the right brake lever 61 to the hydraulic control unit 70. The hydraulic control unit 70 adjusts the hydraulic pressure of the brake fluid to prevent the front wheel 7 from locking up.

[0078] The left pipe 69 is connected to the second connection part 72. Therefore, the left pipe 69 connects the left operating unit 65 and the hydraulic control unit 70. The left pipe 69 transmits the hydraulic pressure of the brake fluid generated in the left operating unit 65 to the hydraulic control unit 70. The second connection part 72 inputs the hydraulic pressure of the brake fluid generated by the operation of the left brake lever 66 to the hydraulic control unit 70. The hydraulic control unit 70 adjusts the hydraulic pressure of the brake fluid to prevent the rear wheel 11 from locking up.

[0079] As described above, the first connection part 71 and the second connection part 72 extend from the main body 70a of the hydraulic control unit to the vicinity of the vehicle centerline C. Therefore, the distance from the right master cylinder 62 to the first connection part 71 and the distance from the left master cylinder 67 to the second connection part 72 can be made the same. Thus, the length of the right pipe 64 and the length of the left pipe 69 can be made the same.

[0080] The front pipe 54 is connected to the third connection part 73. Therefore, the front pipe 54 connects the hydraulic control unit 70 and the front wheel brake 51. The front pipe 54 transmits the hydraulic pressure of the brake fluid adjusted by the hydraulic control unit 70 to the front wheel brake 51. The third connection part 73 outputs the hydraulic pressure of the brake fluid adjusted by the hydraulic control unit 70 to the front wheel brake caliper 53. The front wheel brake caliper 53 brakes the front wheel 7 according to the hydraulic pressure of the brake fluid adjusted by the hydraulic control unit 70.

[0081] A rear pipe 58 is connected to the fourth connection part 74. Therefore, the rear pipe 58 connects the hydraulic control unit 70 and the rear wheel brake 55. The rear pipe 58 transmits the hydraulic pressure of the brake fluid adjusted by the hydraulic control unit 70 to the rear wheel brake 55. The fourth connection part 74 outputs the hydraulic pressure of the brake fluid adjusted by the hydraulic control unit 70 to the rear wheel brake caliper 57. The rear wheel brake caliper 57 brakes the rear wheel 11 according to the hydraulic pressure of the brake fluid adjusted by the hydraulic control unit 70.

[0082] 3. Effects of the Embodiment The saddle-type electric vehicle 1 comprises a head pipe 3, a front fork 6, a front wheel 7, a rear wheel 11, an electric motor 8, and a battery pack 20. The front fork 6 is rotatably supported by the head pipe 3. The front wheel 7 is supported at the lower end of the front fork 6. The rear wheel 11 is positioned behind the front wheel 7. The electric motor 8 drives the rear wheel 11. The battery pack 20 supplies power to the electric motor 8. Furthermore, the saddle-type electric vehicle 1 comprises a front wheel brake 51, a rear wheel brake 55, a hydraulic control unit 70, and a seat 15. The front wheel brake 51 brakes the front wheel 7. The rear wheel brake 55 brakes the rear wheel 11. The hydraulic control unit 70 controls the hydraulic pressure of the front wheel brake 51 and the rear wheel brake 55. A driver can sit on the seat 15. The battery pack 20 is positioned in front of the seat 15. The hydraulic control unit 70 is located above the battery pack 20. Therefore, for example, the distance between the front wheel brake 51 and the hydraulic control unit 70 can be made relatively small. Thus, it is easy to improve the brake feel. For example, it is easy to improve the brake feel of the front wheel brake 51. The brake feel of the front wheel brake 51 refers to, for example, the responsiveness of the front wheel brake 51 to the hydraulic control of the brake fluid by the hydraulic control unit 70.

[0083] The hydraulic control unit 70 is positioned in front of the rear end 26 of the battery pack 20. Therefore, for example, the distance between the front wheel brake 51 and the hydraulic control unit 70 can be reduced. Thus, improving the brake feel becomes even easier.

[0084] The electric motor 8 is positioned below the battery pack 20. Therefore, the heavy battery pack 20 and electric motor 8 can be positioned near the center of the saddle-type electric vehicle 1 in the longitudinal direction X. Thus, improving the weight balance of the saddle-type electric vehicle 1 is easy. Furthermore, the distance between the head pipe 3 and the swing arm 10 can be reduced.

[0085] The hydraulic control unit 70 is positioned in front of the rear end of the electric motor 8. Therefore, for example, the distance between the front wheel brake 51 and the hydraulic control unit 70 can be reduced. Thus, improving the braking feel becomes even easier.

[0086] The hydraulic control unit 70 is fixed to the battery pack 20. Therefore, it is easy to fix the hydraulic control unit 70 in a location away from the main frame 4, for example.

[0087] In a plan view of the saddle-type electric vehicle 1, the hydraulic control unit 70 is positioned to overlap with the battery pack 20. Therefore, the heavy hydraulic control unit 70 can be positioned near the center of the saddle-type electric vehicle 1 in the width direction Y. Thus, it is easy to improve the weight balance of the saddle-type electric vehicle 1.

[0088] The saddle-type electric vehicle 1 is equipped with a handle 9 connected to the upper end of the front fork 6. The saddle-type electric vehicle 1 is equipped with a right-hand operation unit 60 located to the right of the handle 9. The saddle-type electric vehicle 1 is equipped with a right-hand pipe 64 connecting the right-hand operation unit 60 and the hydraulic control unit 70. Therefore, the length of the right-hand pipe 64 can be made relatively short. Thus, it is easier to improve the brake feeling. For example, it is easy to improve the brake feeling of the front wheel brake 51. The brake feeling of the front wheel brake 51 is, for example, the responsiveness of the hydraulic control unit 70 to the operation of the right-hand operation unit 60.

[0089] The saddle-type electric vehicle 1 is equipped with a left operating unit 65 located to the left of the handle 9. The saddle-type electric vehicle 1 is equipped with a left pipe 69 connecting the left operating unit 65 and the hydraulic control unit 70. The length of the right pipe 64 and the length of the left pipe 69 are the same. Therefore, the right pipe 64 and the left pipe 69 can be made to the same specifications. Thus, it is easy to reduce the cost of the saddle-type electric vehicle 1. Also, as mentioned above, the left pipe 69 is the same length as the right pipe 64. Therefore, the length of the left pipe 69 can be made relatively short, similar to the right pipe 64. Thus, it is even easier to improve the brake feeling. For example, it is easy to improve the brake feeling of the rear wheel brake 55. The brake feeling of the rear wheel brake 55 refers to, for example, the responsiveness of the hydraulic control unit 70 to the operation of the left operating unit 65.

[0090] The battery pack 20 has an upper surface 22. The upper surface 22 includes a first surface 23 and a second surface 24. The first surface 23 is located below the second surface 24. The hydraulic control unit 70 is located on the first surface 23. Therefore, it is easy to prevent the handle 9 and the hydraulic control unit 70 from coming into contact when the handle 9 is rotated.

[0091] The first surface 23 is located in front of the second surface 24. As described above, the first surface 23 is located below the second surface 24. Therefore, even when the first surface 23 is located in front of the second surface 24, it is easy to prevent the handle 9 from coming into contact with the hydraulic control unit 70 when the handle 9 is rotated.

[0092] The saddle-type electric vehicle 1 is equipped with a main frame 4 that extends rearward from the head pipe 3. The battery pack 20 is fixed to the main frame 4 with bolts B. Under normal circumstances, there is no need to remove the battery pack 20 from the main frame 4. Therefore, other components can be placed near the battery pack 20. For this reason, it is easy to place the hydraulic control unit 70 above the battery pack 20.

[0093] The saddle-type electric vehicle 1 is equipped with an onboard charger 30 that changes the voltage of electricity supplied from an external power source. The onboard charger 30 is electrically connected to the battery pack 20. The onboard charger 30 is positioned above the battery pack 20. Therefore, it is easy to efficiently utilize the space above the battery pack 20.

[0094] The saddle-type electric vehicle 1 is equipped with an onboard charger 30 that changes the voltage of electricity supplied from an external power source. The onboard charger 30 is electrically connected to the battery pack 20. The onboard charger 30 is located on the second surface 24. Therefore, it is easy to efficiently utilize the space above the battery pack 20.

[0095] The saddle-type electric vehicle 1 is equipped with an inlet 40 that can be connected to an external power source. The inlet 40 is electrically connected to the onboard charger 30. Therefore, charging the battery pack 20 is easy.

[0096] 4. Modified Embodiments This invention is not limited to the above embodiments and can be modified and implemented as follows.

[0097] (1) For example, the upper end of the battery pack 20 may be positioned above the sheet 15. For example, the entire upper end of the battery pack 20 may be positioned above the sheet 15. Therefore, it is easy to increase the storage capacity of the battery pack 20.

[0098] (2) For example, all of the hydraulic control units 70 may be positioned above all of the seat 15.

[0099] (3) In this embodiment, the hydraulic control unit body 70a was not aligned with the vehicle centerline C in a plan view of the vehicle, but is not limited to this. The hydraulic control unit body 70a may be positioned to be aligned with the vehicle centerline C in a plan view of the vehicle.

[0100] (4) In the embodiment, the battery pack 20 has an upper surface 22. The upper surface 22 includes a first surface 23 and a second surface 24, but is not limited to this. The upper surface 22 may consist only of the first surface 23.

[0101] (5) In this embodiment, the battery pack 20 was positioned above the electric motor 8, but is not limited to this. The battery pack 20 may be positioned in front of the electric motor 8.

[0102] (6) In this embodiment, the battery pack 20 was positioned above the MCU 16, but is not limited to this. The battery pack 20 may be positioned in front of the MCU 16.

[0103] (7) In this embodiment, the electric motor 8 was located behind the MCU 16, but is not limited to this. The electric motor 8 may be located below the MCU 16.

[0104] (8) In this embodiment, there is one front wheel 7. However, it is not limited to this. There may be two front wheels 7. In this embodiment, there is one rear wheel 11. However, it is not limited to this. There may be two rear wheels 11.

[0105] (9) The embodiments and each modified embodiment described in (1) to (8) above may be further modified as appropriate by substituting or combining each component with the components of other modified embodiments.

[0106] 1: Saddle-type electric vehicle 2: Body frame 3: Head pipe 4: Main frame 5: Down frame 6: Front fork 7: Front wheel 8: Electric motor 9: Handlebars 10: Swing arm 11: Rear wheel 12: Power transmission mechanism 13: Side cover 14: Upper cover 15: Seat 16: MCU 20: Battery pack 21: Top cover 22: Top surface 23: First surface 24: Second surface 25: Bottom cover 26: Rear end of battery pack 30: Onboard charger 40: Inlet 50: Brake system 51: Front brake 52: Front brake disc 53: Front brake caliper 54: Front pipe 55: Rear brake 56: Rear brake disc 57: Rear brake caliper 58: Rear pipe 60: Right operating unit 61: Right brake lever 62: Right master cylinder 63: Right reservoir tank 64: Right pipe 65: Left operating unit 66: Left brake lever 67: Left master cylinder 68: Left reservoir tank 69: Left pipe 70: Hydraulic control unit 70a: Hydraulic control unit main body 71: First connection part 72: Second connection part 73: Third connection part 74: Fourth connection part B: Bolt X: Front-rear direction of saddle-type electric vehicle Y: Width direction of saddle-type electric vehicle Z: Up-down direction of saddle-type electric vehicle

Claims

1. A saddle-type electric vehicle comprising: a head pipe; a front fork rotatably supported by the head pipe; a front wheel supported at the lower end of the front fork; a rear wheel positioned behind the front wheel; an electric motor for driving the rear wheel; a battery pack for supplying power to the electric motor; a front braking mechanism for braking the front wheel; a rear braking mechanism for braking the rear wheel; a hydraulic pressure control unit for controlling the hydraulic pressure of the front braking mechanism and the rear braking mechanism; and a seat on which a driver can sit, wherein the battery pack is positioned in front of the seat and the hydraulic pressure control unit is positioned above the battery pack.

2. A saddle-type electric vehicle according to claim 1, wherein the hydraulic control unit is positioned in front of the rear end of the battery pack.

3. A saddle-type electric vehicle according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the electric motor is located below the battery pack.

4. A saddle-type electric vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the hydraulic control unit is positioned in front of the rear end of the electric motor.

5. A saddle-type electric vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the hydraulic control unit is fixed to the battery pack.

6. A saddle-type electric vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, in a plan view of the saddle-type electric vehicle, the hydraulic control unit is arranged to overlap with the battery pack.

7. A saddle-type electric vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the saddle-type electric vehicle comprises: a handle connected to the upper end of the front fork; a right operating unit positioned to the right of the handle; and a right pipe connecting the right operating unit and the hydraulic control unit.

8. A saddle-type electric vehicle according to claim 7, wherein the saddle-type electric vehicle comprises a left operating unit located to the left of the handle, and a left pipe connecting the left operating unit and the hydraulic control unit, wherein the length of the right pipe and the length of the left pipe are the same.

9. A saddle-type electric vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the upper end of the battery pack is positioned above the seat.

10. A saddle-type electric vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the battery pack has an upper surface, the upper surface includes a first surface and a second surface, the first surface is located below the second surface, and the hydraulic control unit is located on the first surface.

11. A saddle-type electric vehicle according to claim 10, wherein the first surface is located in front of the second surface.

12. A saddle-type electric vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the saddle-type electric vehicle comprises a main frame extending rearward from the head pipe, and the battery pack is bolted to the main frame.

13. A saddle-type electric vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the saddle-type electric vehicle is equipped with a transformer that changes the voltage of electricity supplied from an external power source, the transformer is electrically connected to the battery pack, and the transformer is positioned above the battery pack.

14. A saddle-type electric vehicle according to claim 10 or 11, wherein the saddle-type electric vehicle comprises a transformer that changes the voltage of electricity supplied from an external power source, the transformer is electrically connected to the battery pack, and the transformer is located on the second surface.

15. A saddle-type electric vehicle according to claim 13 or 14, wherein the saddle-type electric vehicle comprises a connection part that can be connected to the external power supply, and the connection part is electrically connected to the transformer.

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