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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    Engaging the transmission position
    Transmission position P can only be disengaged if the engine is running and the brake pedal is pressed. With the vehicle stationary, press on the brake pedal before shifting out of P or ...

    Switching on automatically
    With the engine running or the ignition switched on, shift the selector lever into position R. ...

    Radio ready state
    Activate radio ready state: ▷ When the ignition is switched off: press ON/ OFF button on the radio. ▷ When the engine is running: press START/ STOP button. Some electronic systems/p ...