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.

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    Emergency unlocking
    Pull the handle inside the cargo area. The trunk lid unlocks. ...

    Checking the pressure
    Only check the tire inflation pressure when the tires are cold. This means after driving no more than 1.25 miles/2 km or when the vehicle has been parked for at least 2 hours. When the tires are w ...

    Switching on the rear window wiper
    Press the lever forward: intermittent wipe. When reverse gear is engaged, the system switches to continuous operation. To clean the rear window, press the lever further forward. ...