BMW (Bayerische Motoren Werke AG) is one of the most iconic and respected brands in the global automotive industry. Founded in 1916 in Munich, the company began as a manufacturer of aircraft engines and later became a symbol of premium quality, engineering precision, and driving pleasure.
The company’s roots trace back to Karl Rapp and Gustav Otto, founders of Rapp Motorenwerke and Flugmaschinenfabrik Gustav Otto. In 1916, their companies merged into Bayerische Flugzeugwerke AG, which was renamed Bayerische Motoren Werke (BMW) in 1922. The blue-and-white logo reflects the colors of the Bavarian flag, not a spinning propeller as often believed.
After World War I, BMW shifted to motorcycle production, launching the R32 in 1923. In 1928, it entered the automobile market by acquiring a factory in Eisenach. By the 1930s, BMW had already earned a reputation for sporty and luxurious vehicles.
Following World War II, BMW faced a severe crisis but survived thanks to the success of the BMW 700 and investments from the Quandt family, who remain major shareholders. In the 1960s, the “Neue Klasse” series laid the foundation for the modern 3, 5, and 7 Series.
Today, the BMW Group includes the BMW, MINI, and Rolls-Royce brands, as well as the BMW Motorrad motorcycle division. The company is a leader in electric mobility (BMW i series), hybrid technologies, and digital services. Its production facilities span Germany, the U.S., China, South Africa, and beyond.
As of 2025, BMW’s global footprint includes:
-Vehicles delivered (2024): 2.45 million
– Fully electric vehicles delivered (Q1 2025): 109,516
– Motorcycles delivered (2023): 221,988
– Revenue (2023): €155.5 billion
– Net income (2023): €12.17 billion
– Employees (2023): ~155,000
– Number of models: Over 40 across BMW, MINI, and Rolls-Royce
Fascinating facts:
– The BMW logo is inspired by the Bavarian flag, not a propeller.
– BMW’s headquarters in Munich is shaped like a four-cylinder engine.
– The company built its first electric car in 1972 — the BMW 1602e.
– BMW still manufactures parts for classic models dating back to the 1940s.
– The BMW M1, the brand’s first supercar, was originally a joint project with Lamborghini.
– BMW motorcycles have broken over 200 world speed records.
– BMW continues to shape the future of mobility, blending its rich heritage with cutting-edge technology. Its slogan, “Sheer Driving Pleasure,” reflects the brand’s philosophy: cars built not just for transportation, but for the joy of the road.