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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    Information at a glance
    Info display Repeatedly pressing the button on the turn signal lever calls up the following information on the info display: ► Range. ► ECO PRO bonus range. ► Average fuel co ...

    Indicator/warning lamps
    The indicator and warning lamps can light up in a variety of combinations and colors. Several of the lamps are checked for proper functioning and light up temporarily when the engine is start ...

    Environmental conditions
    ► Say the commands, numbers, and letters smoothly and with normal volume, emphasis, and speed. ► Always say commands in the language of the voice activation system. ► When selec ...