Drive experience switch

Depending on the series, there are several programmes available for selection via the driving experience switch (see Owner's Manual).

ECO PRO guides the driver to adopt the best possible driving style for fuel consumption. The driver is also aided in his consumption-optimized driving style by displays (see Owner's Handbook). Intelligent control of energy management and the heating and air conditioning system forms the cornerstone of ECO PRO. A real life reduction in consumption of up to 10 % can be achieved.

ECO PRO comprises 4 subsections:

• Steady driving

  Here, a different characteristic curve is selected for the accelerator pedal and different shift points set for the automatic transmission. For manual gearboxes, the shift point indicator is set differently. ECO PRO will also reactivate the automatic engine start-stop function if it is switched off.

• Heating and air conditioning system control

  The heating and air conditioning system is tuned for efficiency. The air conditioning has a lower drying and cooling effect on the air. The refrigerant circuit is placed under a lower load. This reduces the amount of mechanical power required. Actions cause the combustion engine to emit higher levels of heat are avoided as far as possible. The positive temperature coefficient auxiliary heating (diesel engine) is operated at a lower heater output. The air conditioning compressor is switched off when the required temperature is reached, even without cooling power. The automatic engine start-stop function availability is increased. This can have acceptable comfort implications.

  The vehicle memorises these settings when ECO PRO is next activated.

• Reducing electrical consumers

  The mirror heating of the exterior mirrors is switched off (saves up to 100 W). The maximum temperature of the seat heating is restricted to approx. 37.5 °C (normally approx. 42 °C). The heating power of the heated rear window is also restricted.

  The center console operating facility is connected to the Body Domain Controller (BDC). The BDC control unit places the signals on the FlexRay.

  The Personal Profile can be configured at the Central Information Display under Options.

  The following graphic shows the center console operating facility using the example of I01 (vehicle equipment shown: driving experience switch and PDC button).

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

The following graphic shows the center console operating facility using the example of I12 (vehicle equipment shown: DTC button, driving experience switch, side view camera button, PDC button).

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

The following graphic shows the driving experience switch in the center console operating facility using the example of F55, F56

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Several programmes are generally available for selection (see operating instructions):