Charging means for charging an electrical energy storage device of a motor vehicle

The invention relates to a charging device (14) for charging an electrical energy accumulator (12) of a motor vehicle (10), with at least one first connecting element (16) provided with a second connecting element (18), via which in the energy storage (12) to be stored electrical energy from a direction different from the electrical energy storage power source can be provided, can be electrically connected, comprising - a locking device (28) which is secured between at least one second connecting element (18) on the first connecting element (16) locking position and at least one second connecting element (18) releasing the open position is adjustable, and - at least one in the area of ​​the first connecting element (16) arranged sensor (30), by means of which an approximation of a person at the first connecting element (16) is detectable, said locking means (28) in dependence on the detected approaching from the locking position into the is movable open position.