A data transfer, power supply and charging apparatus having a data interface transfers both energy to an energy storage device and vehicle- or driver-related data via a charging cable or electric line. The use of a charging cable for transmitting data to and from the vehicle is suitable particularly for electric and hybrid vehicles in the automotive sector. In this way, it is possible to perform updates for vehicle-internal systems and to check these. In addition, the data transfer, power supply and charging apparatus may include a communication unit which also allows data to be received and sent during travel without an electrical connection.