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:
Exterior
The exterior remains the same for 2009, and the X3 retains its awkward
angles, disjointed taillights and odd lower bodywork. It's not unattractive, but
it sure isn't as stylish as Mercedes' new GL ...
Adaptive light control
The concept
Adaptive light control is a variable headlamp
control system that enables dynamic illumination
of the road surface.
Depending on the steering angle and other parameters,
the light ...
Switching on/off and interrupting
cruise control
Switching on
Press the button on the steering
wheel.
The indicator lamps in the instrument cluster
light up and the mark in the speedometer is set
to the current speed.
Cruise control can be ...
