Patent ID: 8228166

Claim:
A vehicle, comprising: a flap operatively configured to automatically open as a result of an opening command, the opening command being generated without a manual operation of an unlocking/locking mechanism; a first proximity sensor arranged on the vehicle; a second proximity sensor arranged on the vehicle; a distance detection system arranged on the vehicle, the distance detection system being operational for an area situated behind the vehicle; and a control device operatively coupled to the unlocking/locking mechanism and the first and second proximity sensors, the control device being configured to recognize a presence of a valid access authorization device for the vehicle within a defined area surrounding the vehicle; wherein the distance detection system is arranged separately from the control device; wherein the distance detection system is switched on only if the valid access authorization device is recognized by the control device; wherein the first proximity sensor is switched on only with a response from the distance detection system; wherein the control device is further operatively configured to activate the unlocking/locking mechanism only if the first and second proximity sensors are actuated within a defined time window; and wherein, if the valid access authorization device is recognized, a detection signal of the first proximity sensor is present, and a detection signal of the second proximity sensor is present, the control device is operatively configured to activate the unlocking/locking mechanism for releasing the automatically opening flap.