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:

    Manual transmission
    Starting the engine 1. Depress the brake pedal. 2. Press on the clutch and shift to neutral. 3. Press the Start/Stop button. The ignition is activated automatically for a certain time and is sto ...

    Example: dialing a phone number
    1. Briefly press the button on the steering wheel. 2. ›Dial number‹ The system says: »Please say the number«. 3. For instance, ›123 456 790‹ The system says: »123 456 790. Continue?   ...

    Activating/deactivating Bluetooth
    Bluetooth is not permitted everywhere. Comply with all safety guidelines and regulations. 1. "Telephone". 2. "Options" Open. 3. "Bluetooth®" ...