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:

    Front ventilation
    Thumbwheels for adjusting the temperature, arrows 1. Toward blue: colder. Toward red: warmer. Lever for changing the air flow direction, arrow 2. Thumbwheels for opening and closing ...

    Instrument lighting
    Adjusting The parking lamps or low beams must be switched on to adjust the brightness. Adjust the brightness using the thumbwheel. ...

    Onboard vehicle tool kit
    The onboard vehicle tool kit is located under the first aid kit behind the left folding cover in the cargo area. ...