01/16/2025
Lovely Dog ❤️🐶❤️
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Here are Ten lesser-known facts about
1. **BMW started with aircraft engines**: BMW, originally named Bayerische Flugzeugwerke (BFW), began as an aircraft engine manufacturer in 1916 before transitioning to motorcycles and cars after World War I.
2. **The iconic kidney grille debuted in 1933**: BMW’s distinctive kidney grille was first introduced on the 1933 BMW 303 and has become a signature design element of BMW vehicles ever since.
3. **BMW made its first electric car in 1972**: The BMW 1602e, an electric version of the BMW 1602, was introduced at the 1972 Munich Olympics as a demonstration of alternative energy sources.
4. **The headquarters is shaped like a four-cylinder engine**: BMW’s headquarters in Munich, Germany, is a 101-meter-tall building shaped like four cylinders, symbolizing their automotive engine design heritage.
5. **BMW built the world’s fastest motorcycle**: In 1937, BMW set a world motorcycle speed record with its BMW R12, reaching speeds of over 279 km/h (173 mph). This made BMW a leader in high-performance motorcycles.
6. **The “M” in BMW M stands for "Motorsport"**: BMW’s M division, known for high-performance vehicles, was created in 1972 to support BMW’s racing efforts and develop high-performance models for consumers.
7. **The roundel logo is not a spinning propeller**: Contrary to popular belief, BMW’s logo represents the blue and white colors of the Bavarian state flag, not a spinning airplane propeller.
8. **BMW once owned Rolls-Royce and Mini**: BMW took control of Rolls-Royce in 1998 and Mini in 1994. The company still produces Rolls-Royce and Mini vehicles today.
9. **The BMW i3 is made from recycled materials**: BMW’s i3 electric vehicle is one of the most sustainable cars in the world, with over 95% of the car being recyclable, and its interior features recycled plastics, sustainable wood, and eco-friendly fabrics.
10. **The first BMW car was built under license**: BMW’s first car, the BMW 3/15 (also called the Dixi), was actually a licensed version of the Austin 7 from the British Austin Motor Company in the late 1920s.
BMW's journey through aviation, racing, sustainability, and innovative design has shaped its reputation as a luxury automaker with a rich history.
