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:

    Radio Data System RDS
    In the FM waveband, additional information is transmitted via RDS. If the reception conditions are good, the station names are shown on the Control Display. Where reception is poor or in the event ...

    Adjusting
    Adjusting 1. Fold the lever down. 2. Move the steering wheel to the preferred height and angle to suit your seating position. 3. Fold the lever back. ...

    Reference
    This chapter contains technical data, short commands for the voice activation system, and an index that will quickly take you to the information you need. ...