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:

    All other models: Oil levelcheck
    The concept The oil level is monitored electronically during driving and shown on the Control Display. If the oil level reaches the minimum level, a check control message is displayed. Requirem ...

    Displays in the instrument cluster
    Selected program The selected program is displayed in the tachometer. Program selection Pressing the button displays a list of the selectable programs. Display on the Control Display Pr ...

    System limits
    Personal responsibility The system cannot serve as a substitute for the driver's personal judgment of the course of the road and the traffic situation. In the event of a warning, do not jerk th ...