12/06/2024
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Ten Unknown Facts About
Aerospace Origins: BMW started in 1916 as a manufacturer of aircraft engines. The BMW logo represents a spinning propeller against a blue sky, not a stylized Bavarian flag as commonly believed.
Name Meaning: BMW stands for "Bayerische Motoren Werke" (Bavarian Motor Works). The company didn't produce its first car until 1928, the BMW Dixi, which was actually a licensed version of the Austin 7.
World War Impact: After WWII, BMW survived by making pots, pans, and bicycles as they were banned from producing engines. They didn't resume car production until 1952.
Saving Grace: The BMW Isetta, a tiny "bubble car" produced in the 1950s, saved the company from bankruptcy and potential takeover by Mercedes-Benz.
Art Car Tradition: Since 1975, BMW has commissioned renowned artists like Andy Warhol, Roy Lichtenstein, and Jeff Koons to paint their cars, creating the famous "BMW Art Car Collection."
Electric Pioneer: BMW was experimenting with electric vehicles as early as 1972, creating the BMW 1602e for the Munich Olympics, long before the i3 and i8.
Manufacturing Innovation: BMW's Leipzig plant features unique wind turbines and sustainable energy systems, making it one of the most environmentally friendly car factories in the world.
Technology Firsts: BMW introduced the world's first in-car internet access (1997) and was the first to use a heads-up display in a European production car (2004).
Motorcycle Heritage: BMW's motorcycle division, BMW Motorrad, has been in continuous production since 1923, making it older than their car production.
Ownership Structure: BMW remains one of the few major automakers that isn't part of a larger conglomerate. The Quandt family has been the major shareholder since 1959, helping maintain BMW's independence.
