BMW 5 - Manual (Page 45)

BMW
Media
Information
11/2009
Page 45
of restraint systems as well as the occupancy and belt status on the front
seats are also registered. The system is even able to detect head-on, rear-
end, side-on or multiple collisions, distinguishing them from one another.
Apart from sending out an automatic emergency call, the Enhanced
Emergency Call function enables the driver or passenger to manually activate
an emergency call going straight to the BMW Call Center.
Clear operating structure for superior control.
Through its structure, the cockpit of the new BMW 5 Series perfects the
driver orientation so typical of the brand, consistently breaking down all
functions relevant to driving the car, on the one hand, and enjoying motoring
comfort, on the other. Displays and controls for drive functions are arranged
on the driver’s side, functions relevant to comfort are positioned in the middle.
The multifunction steering wheels re-designed for the BMW 5 Series also
follow this concept, with the function keys for speed control, on the one hand,
and the control elements for the audio system and telephone, on the other,
also arranged separately from one another, like the controls and displays in
the cockpit.
Apart from this horizontal subdivision of control and display units, the vertical
structure of the driver’s workplace also ensures fast and intuitive orientation
in the new BMW 5 Series Sedan. All primary displays are in the upper part
of the cockpit on eye level with the driver. The control units such as switches,
etc are positioned further down within optimum reach and, thanks to their
different size, shape and surfaces, easy to use without even looking. The
switches serving to activate various driver assistance systems are arranged in
a panel in the immediate vicinity of the light control centre, offering the driver
enhanced perception and control of his surroundings.
The power unit of the new BMW 5 Series Sedan is started and stopped
simply by pressing the start/stop button as soon as the remote control key
is in the car. Hence, the driver is not required as in the past to actually insert
the key into the appropriate opening.
The direction indicators and windscreen wipers are operated by classic levers
on the steering column on both sides of the steering wheel .The buttons for
adjusting the seats, in turn, are positioned at the outside on the seats, again
with perfect ergonomics. The control units for the seat memory function are
in the inner door panel, allowing convenient use and activation even before
getting into the car.