What Does BMW Stand For?

2019 BMW X2

 

Driving a new BMW vehicle on the Normal streets is something to be proud of. BMW vehicles offer incredible styling and unbeatable performance that’ll really draw you in when you own one. But, what does BMW mean? BMW is a German car company and actually stands for Bayerische Motoren Werke.

Bayerische Motoren Werke translates to Bavarian Motor Works and today, BMW is known for offering some of the finest vehicles you can drive around Decatur. Looking for a more in-depth answer to, “What does BMW stand for?” we’ve got you covered. Learn all about the rich history of BMW today with the professionals at BMW of Bloomington! We’ll go over the BMW slogan, explore the questions, “What Does BMW mean?” and much more below.

Why Is the Company Called Bavarian Motor Works?

We’ve answered the question, “What Does BMW stand for?” but why does it stand for Bavarian Motor Works? Bavaria is a southern state in Germany and BMW originally made airplanes in Bavaria. Today, the BMW headquarters is located in Munich which is the capital of Bavaria. The history of BMW began in Bavaria and it continues to build a legacy today in Bavaria.

BMW History

BMW vehicles today provide plenty of excitement for drivers like you and its history is one of the main drivers that allow it to be so impressive. Here’s a quick look at the history of BMW:

  • 1916: BMW was originally known as BFW or Bayerische Flugzeug Werke.
  • 1917: BFW was officially changed to BMW and continued producing airplane engines.
  • 1920s: Introduced motorcycle engine production.
  • 1928: BMW became an automaker and continued competing against high-level rivals.
  • 1959: Herbert Quandt, a German engineer, gained controlling interest of BMW. The Company began producing the 700 series and from then on, BMW has gained popularity in the U.S. and overseas.

BMW Today

Today, BMW is owned by the BMW Groupe, otherwise known as BMW AG. AG means that BMW is a public company and is owned by shareholders. While the Quandt family is still involved, they own 50% of BMW, and the other 50% is owned by public investors. While BMW has a German heritage and offers high-quality vehicles for you to enjoy on the Urbana roads, BMW actually has facilities all over the world. Some facility locations include:

  • Germany
  • Austria
  • Great Britain
  • China
  • United States

What Does BMW Stand For? | Bimmer vs. Beemer

You may have heard BMW vehicles being referred to as “Bimmer” or Beemer” but which one is right? Technically, there are various different answers and they’re both slang for BMW motorcycles and BMW automobiles. The proper usage of the term can vary depending on who you ask. Some owners argue that Beemer is in reference to BMW motorcycles while Bimmer is in reference to BMW automobiles. Whatever you decide to call your BMW, rest assured that its driving characteristics in Bloomington are sure to keep you entertained behind the wheel.

History of BMW Slogan

Now that we’ve gone over, “What does BMW mean?” let’s take a closer look at the BMW slogan. One of the most popular BMW slogans is, “The Ultimate Driving Machine” which was introduced in North America in 1974. There were some different slogans from the introduction of the original slogan, but the most recent one is “Sheer Driving Pleasure” which references the excitement you’ll enjoy when you’re driving a BMW vehicle.

Learn More About the BMW Brand at BMW of Bloomington

At BMW of Bloomington, we’re happy to share the rich history of BMW and help you find the right vehicle for your needs. Contact us today if you’re ready to take a test drive with one of the most extraordinary vehicles on the market!

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