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:

    Text messages
    Text messages in combination with a symbol in the instrument cluster explain a Check Control message and the meaning of the indicator and warning lamps. ...

    Center armrest
    Opening Press the button, arrow 1, and fold the center arm rest up, arrow 2. Connection for an external audio device This can be used to connect an external audio device, such as an MP3 play ...

    Switching the split screen on and off
    1. Press the button. 2. "Split screen" ...