General information The electrical system is of the 12 volt negative earth type and comprises a 12 volt battery of which the negative terminal isearthed, an alternator which is driven from the crankshaft pulley, a starter motor and related electrical accessories, components and wiring. The battery supplies a steady amount of current for the ignition, lighting and other electrical circuits and provides a reserve of electricity when the current consumed by the electrical equipment exceeds that being produced by the alternator. The alternator is controlled by a regulator. This ensures a high output if the battery is in a low state of charge or the demand from the electrical equipment is high. Alternatively, it ensures a low output if the battery is fully charged and there is little demand for the electrical equipment. An on-board computer system is fitted to some BX 16v models, being located in the floor console forward of the gear lever. This system has fifteen possible functions, the main ones being to log petrol consumption, average speed, journey time elapsed and the estimated time of arrival, plus the range possible on the emaining fuel. The main system components are the computer unit, the distance sensor and the fuel output sensor. All models are equipped with a dim-dip lighting system to comply with UK regulations. The function of the system is to prevent the vehicle being driven with only the sidelights illuminated. This system uses a relay-controlled resistor circuit. When the sidelights are on (ignition also on), the headlights are automatically illuminated at approximately one-sixth their normal dipped beam power.