Abstract: An electrical operating unit for a motor vehicle with a shaft for retaining an emergency key is described, wherein the emergency key is movably arranged in the shaft between a storage position and a usage position. A locking mechanism is provided for locking the emergency key and the movable battery compartment lid. As a locking mechanism, the battery compartment lid itself or a locking element which is mechanically connected to it is provided, and the battery compartment lid is movable into a position as a result of which the emergency key can be locked in the usage position and/or the storage position. The movement of the battery compartment lid is used to move the battery compartment lid or a locking element which is formed on it between the locking and unlocking position.