During its North American introduction in Detroit, the BMW ActiveHybrid 3 was a real head turner. We at Wagner BMW of Shrewsbury in Shrewsbury were expecting just that. As the launch date for the BMW ActiveHybrid 3 is rapidly approaching, many of the cars amazing technological advancements are over shadowed by the hybridization. One piece the we would like to point out is the navigation system.

We admit, it might sound boring. But believe us when we tell you it's anything but.

The navigation system for the ActiveHybrid 3 does more than just "turn left onto Willow St." or traffic jam ahead, it will be the first to alert the driver of the best times to use and charge the battery. The result of this is the driver gets the most out of their battery.

How exactly does the system do this?

We're glad you asked.

This advanced technology takes a few things into consideration when alerting the driver such as, the altitude, distance from- and location of final destination and other real-time data points. For example, if you were driving the upcoming BMW 3 Series on a trip with a giant incline the car will "feel" a decline allowing it to recharge for the upcoming hill.

Essentially, it's a hybrid-specific navigation system designed to improve efficiency, performance and, perhaps most important, driver convenience. It will be standard on the BMW 3 Series when it comes out in autumn. And, word has it, all other current and future hybrid models will adopt it too, (i.e., the 2012 BMW ActiveHybrid 5 - out now).

Curious to read more BMW news? Stay tuned to the Wagner BMW of Shrewsbury blog. And remember we're always happy to have a conversation about BMW hybrid technology. Simply swing by 770 Boston Turnpike Shrewsbury, MA 01545 and speak to one of our friendly, knowledgeable BMW experts.