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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    At a glance
    1 Fuel gauge 2 Speedometer 3 Indicator/warning lamps 4 Tachometer 5 Oil temperature 6 External temperature 7 Electronic displays 8 Miles, trip miles 9 Clock 10 Display/reset miles ...

    Front passenger side
    Opening Pull the handle. The light in the glove compartment switches on. Close the glove compartment again immediately Close the glove compartment immediately after use while driving; otherwi ...

    Front storage compartment
    Raise the lid to open it. ...