Electrical systems: Benefits

• The mainbeam assistant assists the driver in operating the mainbeam headlights. This enhances the level of convenience for the driver.
• The mainbeam headlights are switched on more frequently by the mainbeam assistant than is the case with manually operated mainbeam headlights.
• The driver's field of vision is optimally illuminated. Driving in the dark, therefore, is rendered safer.

The mainbeam assistant merely assists the driver in the task of operating the mainbeam headlights. The responsibility for switching the headlight on and off in accordance with the traffic situation remains with the driver. The mainbeam assistant can be deactivated at any stage with the driving direction - mainbeam switch.

• Adaptive headlights 

  The adaptive headlights turn the bi-xenon headlights towards the inside of a bend when cornering. This improves illumination of the curve of the road. Visibility is therefore improved. When cornering, the driver is not looking into a "black hole" - instead, the adaptive headlights allow the driver to see the curve of the road.

  The AHL control unit actuates the adaptive headlights. For safety reasons, the AHL control unit is also responsible for the automatic headlight-range adjustment. This is because: Oncoming traffic may not be dazzled by the adaptive headlights.

  If a headlight sticks in an unfavorable position, the AHL control unit will attempt to move this headlight down (using the stepper motors in the automatic headlight-range adjustment). The AHL control unit is connected to the PT-CAN.

  The turning light is new.

  The turning lights give the area next to the roadway additional illumination when you are turning or cornering (driving in tight bends). The function is also active when you are parking. Depending on the country concerned, the turning lights are switched on when cornering.

  The turning lights are implemented with the front foglights. (Reason: The installation location of the headlights is too high for the turning lights. This prevents the legal requirements from being observed.

  Depending on actuation, the right-hand and/or left-hand front foglight is switched on. The turning lights are actuated by the light module (LM).

  The front foglights have an additional reflector to improve illumination of the areas to the sides.

  When turning, the front foglight on the inside of the turn is automatically activated. The additional reflector for the turning light reflects the light beam towards the turning area.

  The turning light is not switched on suddenly but rather faded in according to special time parameters. Depending on the country concerned, the turning lights is switched on when cornering.

• Interior lighting 

  The FRM (footwell module) actuates the interior lighting.

  The internal lighting comprises the roof area, the luggage compartment, the footwell and the inside door lighting.

  The area outside the doors is lighted by the exterior lighting (outside door handles) and the access lights.

  The roof area is actuated by the footwell module via the Roof Control Centre (FZD) by bodywork CAN.

  In the roof area on the passenger side as well as at the rear of driver side the internal lighting is equipped with 2 separate lamps.

  The two-section electrically lockable glove compartment is new. The glove compartment lighting is controlled and supplied via electronics in the locking drive.

• Roof control panel 

  Prior to the introduction of the roof control panel, the wiring in the roof was extremely complex. Individual lines were required for the following functions:

  • Interior lighting (front and rear)
  • Sliding/tilting sunroof
  • Anti-theft alarm system
  • Lighting for vanity mirrors
  • Electrochrome interior mirror with connection for electrochrome exterior mirrors
  • Rain-light sensor or rain-light solar sensor
  • Condensation sensor

  The roof control panel is available in the Basic variant and the High variant. The roof control panel in the High variant is installed in conjunction with associated optional extras: e.g. sliding/tilting sunroof or with option 563 "Lighting kit".

  The internal lighting comprises the roof area, the luggage compartment, the footwell and the inside door lighting.

  The area outside the doors is lighted by the exterior lighting (outside door handles) and the access lights. The roof area is actuated by the footwell module via the Roof Control Centre (FZD) by bodywork CAN.

  In the roof area on the passenger side as well as at the rear of driver side the internal lighting is equipped with 2 separate lamps.

  The two-section electrically lockable glove compartment is new. The glove compartment lighting is controlled and supplied via electronics in the locking drive.

• Electrically lockable glove compartment 

  The glove compartment with a two-section lid is new. The two-section lid can be electrically unlocked by pressing a button.

  After unlocking, the lids are automatically opened by springs. This action is activated via a switch. The switch is installed below the central nozzle in the instrument panel.

  Locking and unlocking can also be effected via the center-lock button.

  All that is required to close the compartment is to push only one lid in the CLOSED direction. The other lid will then be automatically closed.

  The lids snap in place in the final CLOSED position in the lock. A CD or DVD changer can be installed in the glove compartment according to the customer order.

  So that the glove compartment can be opened when no power is available or if there is a fault, a manual unlocking option is available.

• Head-up display 

  The head-up display is a familiar technology.

  The head-up display is used to display information relevant to driving the vehicle (e.g. navigation instructions, driving speed) in an ergonomically favorable position on the windscreen. Information appears as a virtual image apparently at the front end of the bonnet.

  The following is new: 

  The driver can adjust the position of the image via the iDrive to his own requirements. The image position can be displaced by up to 30 mm upwards or downwards. A service function is now available in the BMW diagnostic system for adjustment of the head-up display (special tool no longer required).

  The geometric representation of the head-up display can be adjusted with the service function.

• Instrument cluster 

  The instrument cluster features a typical BMW Design.

  The permanent indicator and warning lights are centrally located between the two pointer instruments. There is no indicator lamp for spare fuel.

  A check-control message indicates that the fuel reserve has been reached. There is an LC display between the two indicator instruments.

  The following is new: 

  The test functions are no longer started at Terminal 15.

  Test functions must be called up with terminal R, coming from terminal 30: Terminal 15 > Terminal R > Terminal 30 > Terminal R.

• Steering Column Switch 

  The SZL (steering column switch) recognizes the steering angle. In addition, the SZL recognizes the position of the steering column switches via optical sensors.

  Switch pads are provided for the switches on the multifunction steering wheel and the various switches on the steering column.

  The signals are read by the steering column switch.

  The information from the switches and the steering angle sensor are in some cases processed by the steering column switch and relayed to other systems via the F-CAN.

  In some cases, information is directly forwarded to other control units.

  The following is new: 

  The steering wheel electronics are responsible for controlling steering wheel heating.

• Crash Safety Module 

  Passive safety is ensured by a development of the Advanced Crash Safety Module (ACSM).

  The Advanced Crash Safety Module is responsible for constantly monitoring all sensor signals so that it can recognize a crash situation.

  On the basis of the sensor signals and their evaluation, the CSM recognizes the crash direction and the force of the collision.

  Furthermore, it receives information about the occupants, e.g. whether these wearing belts or not. From this information, the system initiates appropriate measures for selective activation of the required restraint systems.

  The following is new: 

  Under the provisions of the FMVSS (Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard, US version), the system must be able to distinguish between a relatively small person (5% woman) and a normal sized person (50% man) in the driver's seat.

  The seat position detector indicates the longitudinal position of the driver's seat. This allows the system to recognize the distance between the person sitting on the driver's seat and the steering wheel.

  The seat position signal influences the response of the adaptive belt force limiter and the delayed triggering of the 2nd stage of the gas generator (driver's airbag). The adjustment distance of the driver's seat is registered by Hall sensors in the drive and processed in the seat module.

  The seat module emits a message on the K-CAN. The Crash Safety Module is joined to the K-CAN and the F-CAN buses.

  Special sensors for recognizing rollovers are integrated in the crash safety module: Yaw rate sensor, longitudinal acceleration sensor, lateral acceleration sensor. Occupant safety is yet further increased by the rollover protection system.

  The belt tighteners and head airbags are triggered by a certain severity of impact.

  The direct networking with the Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) via the F-CAN means that any rollover can be predicted more precisely and rapidly.

  From 10/2007  the E70 will be equipped with a crash-active head restraint (E71 from market launch).

  The crash-active head restraint reduces loading of the cervical spine in a rear collision.

  Depending on the seat position and the seat deign, the distance between the head and the head restraint may be more than 100 mm.

  In a rear collision the front part of the head restraint is moved almost instantaneously forwards by up to 60 mm by a spring drive.

  Even before the head is thrown back by the rear impact, the crash active head restraint has already reduced the distance between it and the passenger's head.

  The crash-active head restraint is pyrotechnically triggered by the Crash Safety Module (ACSM).

• Wiper/washer system 

  The vehicle is equipped with 2 front windscreen wipers and one rear window wiper. The headlight cleaning system is an optional extra. The wiper switch forms part of the steering column switch cluster (SZL).

  The signals from the wiper switch are relayed by the steering column switch cluster via the F-CAN to the Dynamic Stability Control.

  From the Dynamic Stability Control, the sign is transmitted via the PT-CAN to the junction box electronics (JBE). The JBE evaluates the signals and actuates the wiper motors.

  The JBE recognizes the resting position of the wiper via the reset contact in the wiper motor.

• Seats 

  An extensive range of seat fittings is available for the vehicle. Basically, 3 different seat models are offered: Basic seat, sport seat, multifunction seat (comfort seat).

  The front side airbag is integrated in the backrest of the driver and front passenger seats.

  In the active seat, the seating cushion is electropneumatically activated instead of electrohydraulically as previously. The electropneumatic control means that the total weight of the seat can be reduced.

  The backrests in the 2nd row are divided in two (60/40).

  The locking of the 2nd seat row is monitored by several microswitches. These microswitches ensure that the seat once locked is not inadvertently or unexpectedly released.

  This increases the protection of occupants against injuries.

  For the first time, the E70 has a third seat row (7 seater, SA 4UB). These seats are not heated. However, a separate heating system is available for the third row.

• Climate control 

  The heating/climate control system is a water regulated heating/climate control system. The performance of the system has been improved compared with that of the E53 with respect to cold output, heat output and comfort (air distribution and acoustics).

  In principle, 3 versions of the heating/climate control system are available:

  • IHKA Basic, integrated automated heat/climate control system (1-zone)
  • IHKA High, integrated automated heat/climate control system (2-zone)
  • IHKA High with automatic climate control system for rear seat FKA (4-zone)

  FKA is the automatic rear seat climate control system and is a separate control device for the rear seat. This control unit supports individual heating/air-conditioning options for the passengers in the rear seats.

  IHKA Basic supports uniform temperature setting, blower control and air vent control on the driver and front passenger sides. The entire passenger compartment is regulated according to these settings as a single zone (1-zone).

  IHKA High supports separate settings on the left and right for temperature and vent control or control for driver and front passenger.

  The passenger compartment is correspondingly regulated in 2 zones (2-zone).

  The rear passengers also have the option of setting different temperatures on the right and left and can control the blowers in the back of the car separately by means of the optionally available automatic rear seat climate control system.

  The passenger compartment is correspondingly regulated in 4 separate zones (4-zone).

  A separate heating and ventilation system is also available for the optional 3rd row (E70 only).

  Heating is provided in versions with diesel engines with a separate electrical heater based on the PTC principle.

  If a parking heater system is installed, the electrical PTC heater is omitted in diesel versions.

  Due to measures to reduce CO2 emissions, the A/C compressors are installed with a magnetic coupling (not for N62B48O1).

• Parking heater 

  The parking heater comprises the independent auxiliary heater and the associated components and power supply.

  The parking heater is incorporated in the integrated automatic heating/climate control system (IHKA).

  The main element of the new independent auxiliary heater is a Venturi burner. This optimizes the entire combustion process to make it considerably more efficient than compared to previous burner technology.

  The Junction Box Electronics (JBE) controls the water valve to meter the coolant throughflow for the heat exchanger

  The water valve operates electromagnetically and meters the coolant flow rate to the heating system heat exchanger as it is needed. This determines the air temperature used for heating the vehicle interior.

  In the case of automatic air conditioning with separate adjustment for the driver and passenger sides, a duo water valve is installed on account of the left/right separation of the heat exchanger.

  After starting, the parking heater runs in full-load operation. If the temperature in the heating circuit of the parking heater reaches approx. 80 °C it switches over to part-load operation.

  New from 04/2007: 

  A new Telestart transmitter is being used.

  The procedure for initializing this telestart transmitter has changed .

• Audio systems 

  The following equipment is available for audio reception:

  • Professional radio
  • "Professional" navigation system

  The Professional radio is fitted as standard. The standard equipment includes the iDrive with controller and Central Information Display (CID). The Professional Radio is available in 2 hardware versions with the same range of functions.

  In the European version, a development of the familiar M-ASK is used. In the U.S. version, with CHAMP (Central Headunit and Multimedia Platform), the new platform for the central radio segment is used for the first time in BMW vehicles.

  As the Professional Navigation System, a development of the Car Communication Computer (CCC) is available.

  CCC, M-ASK and CHAMP are designated as headunits, as they act as masters in the MOST ring that synchronizes data transmission. In addition the head unit acts as an interface between K-CAN and MOST.

  Radio Professional and Navigation System Professional provides 8 favorite buttons. In the U.S. version, 6 favorite buttons can be assigned with certain functions, two buttons are assigned fixed functions. In the European version, all 8 favorite buttons are assignable.

  In addition to the reception of AM and FM stations, digital radio is also available. In the U.S. version, the satellite tuner (SDARS) and the digital tuner (IBOC) are offered.

  In the European version Digital Audio Broadcasting (DAB) is available.

  For the first time ever, a CD changer with a shaft is being offered in a BMW. This changer can accept 6 CDs that can be inserted in the device without the necessity of a magazine.

  A DVD changer is offer for playing DVSDs. The combination of Top-HiFi amplifier and DVD changer supports multichannel audioformats such as "Dolby Digital" or "dts".

  CHAMP, M-ASK, CCC, CD and DVD changers support the replay of compressed audio files.

  A USB interface is offered in the vehicle in certain markets by means of the SA 6FL "USB Audio Interface". This supports the connection of a USB mass memory.

  The mass memories can be operated via the iDrive and the audio data can be relayed via the vehicle loudspeakers.

• Navigation systems 

  The navigation systems for the European and U.S. versions are integrated in the Car Communication Computer (CCC).

  In Japan an independent MOST control unit is used for navigation. An independent MOST control unit is also installed for navigation in China or Korea.

  The separate control units require the CCC as head unit. For the market launch in the USA and Canada, the Real Time Traffic Information (RTTI) warning service is being offered.

  The RTTI signals are transmitted via FM. The service is controlled via the SA 6UH "Traffic Info for Navigation" and at present is include in the scope of functions of the SA 609 "Navigation System Professional".

  In the European versions, the TMC (Traffic Message Channel) is used for traffic radio messages.

  If SA 612 "BMW Assist" is installed and activated in the vehicle, VInfoPlus (VI+) can also be selected as the traffic information channel.

  Compared with TMC, VI+ provides more accurate traffic information because of its higher update rate and the use of other traffic sensors.

  In the Japanese version, an independent traffic information in the form of VICS (Vehicle Information and Communication System) is used.

  CHAMP, M-ASK, CCC, CD and DVD changers support the replay of compressed audio files.

  A USB interface is offered in the vehicle in certain markets by means of the SA 6FL "USB Audio Interface". This supports the connection of a USB mass memory.

  The mass memories can be operated via the iDrive and the audio data can be relayed via the vehicle loudspeakers.

  The interface box High (ULF-SBX-H) is installed with the 6FL "USB audio interface".

• Television 

  The television allows motion pictures to be displayed on the screen and the reproduction of the associated sound information via the audio system.

  In the Central Information Display (CID) television or videos from DVD (Digital Versatile Disc) can be viewed.

  For safety reason, the TV picture is replaced during journeys with a notice.

  The following optional extras are available ex-works:

  • SA 601 "TV Function" in conjunction with SA 609 "Navigation System Professional"
  • SA 602 "On-board monitor with TV" without SA 609 "Navigation System Professional"
  • SA 696 "DVD changer 6-fold"

  Depending on the country-specific version, the Hybrid video module (VM-Hybrid) or the 5 (VM5) video module are used.

  The VM-Hybrid is designed to receive digital and analogue TV signals, the VM5 to receive analogue TV signals.

  For color TV systems, there are basically three different standards in use worldwide:

  • PAL
  • NTSC
  • SECAM

  The above color TV systems are supported by the video modules. The appropriate television system is selected via the country-specific settings.

  These settings can be changed by the customer.

  With the aid of the DVD changer and a suitable DVD it is possible, besides showing films, to display and operate interactive media such as travel guides, reference works, catalogues etc.

  Multichannel audioformats are supported in conjunction with the Top-HiFi amplifier.

• Rear Seat Entertainment

  With the SA 6FF "DVD system in the rear seat" an entertainment system for the back seats is offered as an optional extra ex-works. The (Rear Seat Entertainment = RSE control unit) offers the following functions:

  • Remote control
  • Playing of CDs or DVDs via the DVD drive
  • Confirmation of settings made to the Rear Seat Entertainment as well as display (CDs, DVDs, photos) via an 8 inch TFT color monitor (rear seat display)
  • Audio relay via the vehicle loudspeakers or cable-connected headsets
  • Audio replay via headsets with infrared transmission

    The infrared transmitter is integrated in the rear seat display.

  • Connection for external devices (e.g. video camera, games console)
  • TV in rear seat

    TV reception in the rear seat is also possible through the use of the headset module from 09/2007 and in conjunction with the SA 601 "TV Function" or SA 602 "On-board monitor with TV".

  The headset module (KHM) performs the following function:

  To convert the TV sound for the Rear Seat Entertainment (RSE), that is sent as an optical signal to the MOST bus into an analogue signal

  TV reception in the rear seat is only possible with the headset module (KHM).

  The Rear Seat Entertainment is functionally independent of other entertainment sources available in the vehicle.

  Via iDrive, the Rear Seat Entertainment can be enabled or locked in the menu "Settings". The RSE control unit can be activated via the K-CAN.

  The pictures shown in the rear seat display are all generated in the RSE control unit.

  All picture information is transmitted from the RSE control unit via the LVDS datalink to the rear seat display.

  The RSE control unit can be switched on from Terminal 30g ON.

  After Terminal R OFF, the RSE control unit can be switched on within the follow-up time (approx. 30 minutes).

• Telephone systems 

  With the SA 644, the new telephone control unit interface box (ULF-SBX) is being introduced.

  The ULF-SBX is a functional development of the universal and freespeaking device (ULF) familiar from other BMW models.

  The interface box High (ULF-SBX-H) operates in the U.S. version solely the SA 6FL "USB audio interface".

  In all other markets the telephone function is also available via the ULF-SBX-H.

  For the U.S. version from 04/2007 a development of the Telematic Control Unit (TCU) for the SA 639 "Complete Preparation Cellphone USA/CDN including telematics" is installed.

  New telematic functions in the U.S. version include:

  • Remote door unlock: remote control unlocking of doors

    The vehicle unlocking feature is activated by the service provider ATX on behalf of the customer.

  • Stolen vehicle recovery: locates stolen vehicles

    The service provider ATX can be given the job of locating the vehicle's position.

  In the European version the familiar TCU is installed as the SA 633 "Mobile Preparation Business with Bluetooth Interface".

  The use of a development of the TCU for the SA 633 is planned for 04/2007.

  In order to support customers in connecting their own mobile phones, a connecting assistant has been introduced. The connecting assistant accompanies the connecting procedure with extended menus in the Central Information Display (CID).

  The specified scope of functions is only achieved with Bluetooth-compatible mobile phones recommended by BMW. A list of the currently recommended Bluetooth-compatible mobile phones can be obtained via various applications (e.g. PuMA or ASAP).

• Voice input 

  Voice input is available in the Basic and High versions.

  The basic voice input is used to operate the telephone and the talking directory. Basic voice processing is available when no SA 620 "voice input system" is installed but one of the following optional extras:

  • SA 633 "Mobile Preparation Business with Bluetooth Interface"
  • SA 639 "Complete Preparation Cellphone USA/CDN inclusive Telematics"
  • SA 644 "Mobile Preparation Business with Bluetooth Interface"

  The Basic voice input is implemented in the telephone control unit.

  The High voice input is offered as the optional extra 620 "Voice input system". If a vehicle is equipped with the SA 609 "Navigation System Professional" the SA 620 is implemented in the Car Communication Computer (CCC).

  If the vehicle is not equipped with CCC, the SA 620 can still be ordered from 09/2007. In that case the High voice processing is integrated in the High interface box (ULF-SBX-H). There is no automatic connection to the telephone function.

  If the TCU (Telephone function) and ULF-SBX-H (voice input) are both installed in the vehicle then the microphone is connected to the TCU.

• iDrive 

  The head unit can be the following control unit.

  • Car Communication Computer (CCC)
  • Multi-audio system controller (M-ASK)
  • Central Headunit and Multimedia Platform (CHAMP), U.S. version only

  The new color display is integrated in the instrument panel without double binnacles. In comparison with the predecessor, the Central Information Display is however placed in a more ergonomically favorable position in the primary viewing range of the driver.

  Thus even while the driver looks at the display he can also take in the ongoing traffic situation. The display has been designed to be clear, simple and user-friendly.

  Colors and typography have been adjusted to optimize their readability and contrast in all environmental conditions (e.g. brightness).

  8 favorite buttons facilitate rapid and safe operation. Frequently used functions can be saved on these and accessed at any time.

  For example, telephone numbers or navigation goals can be stored as functions.

  Also entertainment sources such as radio stations or CDs can be directly selected. In the U.S. version 2 buttons are permanently assigned for switching between AM/FM and the individual audio sources.

  Functions are saved by keeping the buttons pressed down, functions are called up by pressing the button. The buttons are touch sensitive to enable a preview of the function assignment before the function is actually activated.

• BMW TeleServices 

  The intelligent networking between the vehicle and BMW Service has now been extending, thus offering even greater convenience:

  The BMW Group is the only car maker that offers the automatic BMW TeleService Call, by which the vehicle automatically reports a service requirement to the BMW Service Partner. The option of manually activating the BMW TeleService Call is still available.

  This is useful, when for example a driver would like to arrange a special service date for a tire change.

  The following is new: 

  The driver can now get into direct contact with the BMW Breakdown Service and initiate a BMW TeleService Diagnosis.

  In the process in addition to the Based Service data (CBS), any existing fault messages in the vehicle are transmitted.

  The specialist from the BMW Breakdown Service thus has more possibility to determine the cause of a fault and to initiate appropriate measures to rectify it.

  The specialist can then decide whether the operability of the vehicle can be restored by BMW TeleService remotely or other measures are required.

Subject to change.