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.

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    Opening
    Opening Press the button. The covers open upward and downward and the lighting in the glove compartment switches on. Close the glove compartment again immediately Close the glove compartmen ...

    Example: dialing a phone number
    1. Briefly press the button on the steering wheel. 2. ›Dial number‹ The system says: »Please say the number«. 3. For instance, ›123 456 790‹ The system says: »123 456 790. Continue?   ...

    Rear seat heating
    Switching on Press the button once for each temperature level. The maximum temperature is reached when three LEDs are lit. Switching off Press the button longer. The LEDs go out. Temper ...