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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    Sound output
    Switching on/off When the ignition is switched off: press ON/OFF button on the radio. Muting When the ignition is switched on or the engine is running: press the ON/OFF button on the radio. ...

    Starting playback
    Push the CD/DVD into the drive with the labeled side facing upward. The CD/DVD is automatically pulled in. ▷ Playback begins automatically after a few seconds. ▷ Otherwise: select ...

    Indicator/warning lamps
    The indicator lamp flashes: DSC controls the drive forces and brake forces. The indicator lamp lights up: DSC has failed. ...