Bayerische Motoren Werke ‘Aktiengesellschaft’, better known as BMW AG is a German-based company manufacturing world class automobiles and motorcycles. Founded in 1916 producing only aircraft engines uptil 1920 when their first entirely designed BMW car rolled out named BMW 3/20 powered by a 4-cylinder engine. BMW began production of motorcycles in 1923, with the R32 model. The company almost went bankrupt between the 1959-1968 period. The new four-door sedan class including 2000 C and 2000 CS luxury coupes is credited for it’s revival.
Throughout the 100 plus years history, the brand has always reinvented itself. It’s been a pioneer of new technologies within both the industry and the world of mobility. The Company also has a prominent history in motorsport, especially in touring cars, Formula 1, sports cars and the Isle of Man TT.
The current model lineup starts with the 2-Series all the way upto the 7-series sedans. X1, X3, X4, X5, X6 are the options in the SUV category. The M series represents the Motorsport variants and models of the Bayerische cars. The BMW i sub-brand is focused on all-electric and plug-in vehicles such as the futuristic i8.
Type
Subsidiary
Founded
1916
Founder
Karl Rapp
Headquarters
Munich, Germany
Revenue
€94 b
Owner(s)
Stefan Quandt (29%)
Susanne Klatten (21%)
Public float (50%)