BMW
BMW, founded in 1916 as Bayerische Motoren Werke, began by producing aircraft engines. After World War I, they shifted focus to motorcycles, introducing the iconic R32 in 1923. Gradually entering the automobile market, BMW gained prominence with their ‘New Class’ models in the 1960s and 1970s, notably the BMW 3 Series, which became synonymous with performance and luxury.
The company’s commitment to engineering excellence and a driver-oriented experience set them apart. Innovations in engine technology, handling, and design became hallmarks of BMW vehicles. They expanded their lineup, introducing models like the 5 Series and 7 Series, emphasizing both luxury and driving dynamics.
BMW’s growth extended through acquisitions, including the brands Mini and Rolls-Royce, diversifying their offerings while maintaining high standards of quality and performance.
In recent years, BMW has focused on sustainability and electric mobility. The introduction of electric and hybrid models, such as the i3 and i8, highlighted their dedication to eco-friendly technology. This commitment has positioned BMW as a pioneer in the shift towards electric vehicles while continuing to embody precision engineering, luxury, and an unwavering dedication to delivering a top-tier driving experience.
Birth of BMW
BMW can trace its origin to 1916 when Flugmaschinenfabrik Gustav Otto Company had Merged into Bayerische Flugzeug-Werke. At the beginning the company was an aircraft engine manufacturer
Emblem was born
For the first time the BMW emblem was shown. The colors showcase the Bavarian Color, and the design shows a rotating propeller.
First Motorcycle
After the war with the brohibition of aero-engine, BMW created their first motorcycle the R 32.
BMW car was born
BMW's first car was a licensed version of Austin 7 which was called Dixi, when BMW purchased the company known as Fahrzeugfabrik Eisenach. First company designed BMW came in 1932
First BMW Straight six
Although BMWwas putting straight six cylinder engines in aircraft as early as 1917, the first straight six engine put in their automobile was in 1933. The engine was called M78 and it was 1.2L with overhead valve design.
after WWII
Since 1933 BMW was heavily invested in making airoplane engines. After the war ended, lots of the plants that BMW owned were disassembled, and equipment was sent to other countries.
assembly line started
R 24 motorcycle was the first BMW vehicle to be built after the War. It sold around 10,000 units in its first full year, which built all expectations.
first car after the war
BMW's first car was the 501. It was a large 6-seater luxury automobile that had a straight six-cyclinder 2.5L engine as its heart.
New era of automobiles
With the financial difficulties that BMW was facing, the company presented the 1500. It was a four-door, compact middle-class sedan that established BMW as a modern automaker.
BMW M
This was the year that BMW brought all their varius motor racing activies under one roof called BMW Motorsport GmbH, later on known as BMW M
BMW Technik GmbH
BMW Technik GmbH was created to allow their best designers and engineers free reign on coming up with designs and concepts of tomorrow. BMW Z1 roadster was the first vehicle to be brought to life thanks to BMW Technik.
BMW buys Rover Group
BMW management to expand their line up and purchase the Rover Group. This included Land Rover, Rover, MG, Triumph, and Mini. Things did not go well with this acquisition, and by 2000 all the brands were sold again apart from Mini.
Rolls-Royce
BMW purchased Rolls-Royce motors from Volkswagen. This acquisition finished by the end of 2002, when BMW built its new headquarters and plant in Goodwood, England.
The first electric BMW
With the automotive world evolving rapidly, BMW intruduced the i3. This was BMW's first attemp on an ground up electric car.