On-demand control of ancillary units saves energy

Intelligent energy management in the new BMW 3-Series is further enhanced by the ancillary units, which consume significantly less energy compared with conventional systems. Examples include the on-demand coolant pump, the electronically controlled oil pump and the electromechanical steering system, which only consumes electric power when steering assistance is actually required. The special air conditioning compressor featured on many of the sports sedan models works on the same principle. As soon as the driver switches the air conditioning off, the belt drive to the compressor is disconnected by a magnetic clutch, to minimise power drain.

    See also:

    Adaptive brake assistant
    In combination with the Active Cruise Control, this system ensures that the brakes respond even more rapidly when braking in critical situations. Refer also to Collision warning ...

    Displays in the instrument cluster
    Selected program The selected program is displayed in the tachometer. Program selection Pressing the button displays a list of the selectable programs. Display on the Control Display Pr ...

    Selecting menu items
    Menu items shown in white can be selected 1. Turn the controller until the desired menu item is highlighted Turn the controller until the desired menu item is highlighted 2. Press the control ...