Early Years (1916–1923)
- Founded in 1916 in Munich, Germany, BMW originally started as a manufacturer of aircraft engines during World War I. The company was founded as Bayerische Flugzeugwerke AG (BFW) and later renamed Bayerische Motoren Werke AG (BMW) in 1917.
- The company’s signature blue-and-white logo symbolizes the Bavarian state flag and is often mistaken for representing a spinning airplane propeller.
Shift to Motorcycles (1923–1928)
- After World War I, the Treaty of Versailles banned Germany from producing aircraft engines, prompting BMW to shift its focus to motorcycles.
- In 1923, BMW produced its first motorcycle, the R 32, which introduced the iconic flat-twin boxer engine design.
Automobile Production Begins (1928–1939)
- BMW entered the automobile industry in 1928 by acquiring the Eisenach car factory and the license to build the small car Dixi 3/15, a German version of the British Austin 7.
- The first car produced under the BMW name was the BMW 3/15 DA-2 in 1929.
- In the 1930s, BMW gained recognition for its luxury and performance cars, including the BMW 328 Roadster, which became a motorsport icon.
World War II Impact (1939–1945)
- During World War II, BMW returned to producing aircraft engines, as well as motorcycles and military vehicles for the German army.
- The war left the company in ruins, with its factories destroyed by Allied bombings.
Post-War Recovery (1945–1959)
- After the war, BMW was banned from producing vehicles for several years. The company survived by manufacturing pots, pans, and bicycles.
- In 1952, BMW resumed car production with the BMW 501, a luxury sedan, but it struggled financially.
- By the late 1950s, BMW faced bankruptcy and was nearly acquired by Mercedes-Benz.
The Turning Point (1960s–1970s)
- The launch of the BMW 1500 in 1961 marked a turning point. This sporty sedan was part of the “New Class” series, which revived the company’s fortunes.
- In 1972, BMW established its iconic M Division, producing high-performance vehicles, starting with the BMW M1.
Global Expansion (1980s–1990s)
- BMW became a global leader in the luxury car segment during the 1980s and 1990s.
- It acquired the British brands Rover, Mini, and Rolls-Royce Motor Cars in the 1990s, though it later sold Rover but retained Mini and Rolls-Royce.
Modern Era (2000–Present)
- BMW has focused on innovation, sustainability, and electric mobility in recent decades.
- In 2013, it launched the BMW i Series, including the electric i3 and hybrid sports car i8.
- The company continues to lead in luxury, performance, and technology, with popular series like the 3 Series, 5 Series, X Series SUVs, and the electric BMW i4 and iX.
Legacy
BMW is now one of the world’s most respected automotive brands, known for its blend of performance, luxury, and cutting-edge technology. The company’s motto, “The Ultimate Driving Machine,” reflects its commitment to driving pleasure.