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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    Heated seats
    Press the button once per temperature level. Three LEDs indicate the highest temperature. To switch off: Press button longer. If you continue driving within approx. the next 15 minutes, the sea ...

    Avoiding unintentional alarms
    The tilt alarm sensor and interior motion sensor can be switched off together, such as in the following situations: ► In automatic car washes. ► In duplex garages. ► During tran ...

    Locking the doors and windows
    Rear doors Push the locking lever on the rear doors down. The door can now be opened from the outside only. Safety switch for the rear Press the button on the driver's door if children ar ...