BMW

BMW (Bayerische Motoren Werke AG) is a German automobile manufacturer that produces high-end luxury vehicles. It is considered one of Germany’s Big 3 auto manufacturers, the other two being Volkswagen and Mercedes-Benz, and is the parent company of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars.

Launched in 1916 by Franz Josef Popp, BMW produced aeroplane engines used in World War I and didn’t manufacture its first car until 1927 with the Dixi 3/15. Motorcycles were also an integral part of their product mix before their first car was produced.

One can’t mention BMW without taking into account its iconic logo. Though many think the BMW logo is made to resemble a spinning propeller, symbolic of BMW’s roots in the aeronautics industry, it is actually patterned after the shape of Rapp Motor’s logo, a key influencer in the BMW brand. Blue and white, also found in the logo, are the national colors of Bavaria where BMW is based.

Also interesting to note is the design of BMW’s headquarters. The four combined towers are made to mirror the design of a four cylinder engine.

BMW has always been ahead of its time in engineering and technology. They’ve set numerous records for altitude and speed. In 1919, a biplane powered by BMW reached a record-breaking 32,000 feet. Their 1937 motorcycle reached speeds of a mind-boggling 137.7 mph which earned them a world record. Their H2R hydrogen-fueled vehicle has set nine international speed records. BMW also produced its first electric car in 1972.

Giving the driver a beautiful experience behind the wheel is at the core of BMW’s mission statement and has permeated their advertising slogans through the years. These marketing slogans have included: “The Ultimate Driving Machine, Sheer Driving Pleasure, and The Ultimate Driving Experience.”

BMW’s pursuit of elegance and luxury is not only evident in the speed and precise handling of their vehicles, but also in the cabins. Leather interiors, beautiful taut lines and ergonomically arranged instruments truly make the BMW driving experience unique. BMW also makes seats and interiors for luxury airlines.

Several current models of BMW are available including the 1 series (BMW’s smallest car), the 6 series and the iPerformance series (a new plug-in hybrid line) among many others. The BMW 328i and the BMW X5 are among some of the most sought-after models.

BMW has corporate sponsorships ranging in industry from healthcare to arts to education, but their primary focus is in the areas of motorsports, golf, and sailing. They have enduring sponsorships with the PGA championship and Copa Del Rey sail racing competition among numerous other events.