History of the BMW brand
from aircraft engines to iconic cars
The BMW brand, known for its high-quality automobiles and motorcycles, has a rich and fascinating history dating back to its founding in the early 20th century. The company’s success was no accident; it was the result of innovation, quality production, and an endless pursuit of perfection. Let’s delve into BMW’s past and find out how the brand has earned trust and respect around the world.
Founding a company: the beginning of the journey
The history of BMW begins in 1916, when Bayerische Flugzeugwerke AG (BFW) was founded in Munich. The company's founder, Karl Friedrich Rapp, worked in the field of aircraft engines, which was extremely important at the time, given the need for new technologies in the context of World War I.
In 1917, after the company was renamed Bayerische Motoren Werke (BMW), the company began to gain popularity thanks to high-quality aircraft engines. BMW's first success came with the BMW IIIa engine, which was used in Fokker and Albatros aircraft. This engine was characterized by high power and reliability. Key components such as cylinders and crankcases were made of light alloys, which allowed for a significant increase in performance and a reduction in weight. It was this success in aviation that laid the foundation for future achievements in the automotive industry.
In 1917, after the company was renamed Bayerische Motoren Werke (BMW), the company began to gain popularity thanks to high-quality aircraft engines. BMW's first success came with the BMW IIIa engine, which was used in Fokker and Albatros aircraft. This engine was characterized by high power and reliability. Key components such as cylinders and crankcases were made of light alloys, which allowed for a significant increase in performance and a reduction in weight. It was this success in aviation that laid the foundation for future achievements in the automotive industry.
Transition to cars: first steps
With the end of World War I in 1918, BMW faced problems related to the economy and the reduction of military orders. As a result, the company was forced to diversify its business, and in 1920, the transition to the production of motorcycles and cars began. In 1923, BMW released its first motorcycle, the R32, which was revolutionary. The motorcycle was distinguished by a horizontally mounted engine and a robust design.
The success of motorcycles inspired BMW to take further steps. In 1928, BMW bought the Eisenach Motorenwerk company, which allowed it to enter the passenger car market. Then in 1929, the first passenger car was released - the BMW 3/15, which became the basis for further development of the automobile direction. It was a compact and economical car that was able to win the sympathy of consumers.
The success of motorcycles inspired BMW to take further steps. In 1928, BMW bought the Eisenach Motorenwerk company, which allowed it to enter the passenger car market. Then in 1929, the first passenger car was released - the BMW 3/15, which became the basis for further development of the automobile direction. It was a compact and economical car that was able to win the sympathy of consumers.
Golden Years: Development and Innovation
The 1930s were a time of prosperity for BMW. The company continued to introduce innovations and new technologies, which contributed to the growth of production. During this period, such models as the BMW 328 were introduced. This sports car became a symbol of success in maneuvering races and won many prizes, which strengthened the image of BMW as a manufacturer of high-quality cars.
No less important was the creation of the BMW 326, which was one of the first mass-produced cars with a body made of stamped steel. This technology made it possible to significantly reduce the cost of production, which made BMW cars more affordable for most buyers.
During World War II, BMW again focused on the production of aircraft engines, and automobile production was temporarily suspended. However, after the war, the company faced the challenges of recovery. The victorious countries took away BMW's production facilities, and for a long time the company remained on the verge of bankruptcy.
No less important was the creation of the BMW 326, which was one of the first mass-produced cars with a body made of stamped steel. This technology made it possible to significantly reduce the cost of production, which made BMW cars more affordable for most buyers.
During World War II, BMW again focused on the production of aircraft engines, and automobile production was temporarily suspended. However, after the war, the company faced the challenges of recovery. The victorious countries took away BMW's production facilities, and for a long time the company remained on the verge of bankruptcy.
Post-war years and the threat of bankruptcy
BMW was in complete decline after World War II. At that time, BMW's production facilities were represented by five large factories, four of which were in the territory controlled by the Soviet Military Administration in Germany (SVAG), and the only one that remained under full control, the Milbertshofen plant in Munich, was heavily damaged by bombing and was subject to demolition. Moreover, the Allied command forbade BMW from producing cars.
Only by 1950 was the company allowed to manufacture civilian vehicles.
In 1955, the situation for the company became catastrophic, BMW was threatened with bankruptcy and urgently needed to find a solution to overcome the crisis.
Then the company's management, rethinking the needs of the car market, turned its attention to a tiny Italian car with a motorcycle engine.
The owners of BMW agreed with the Italians to purchase the licensing rights for the Isetta and even bought a ready-made assembly line. The little Isetta with one front door, a tiny interior for two and a 9-horsepower motorcycle engine developed a speed of only 75 km/h. Moreover, even acceleration to 50 km/h took half a minute! But the Isetta required only 3 liters of gasoline per hundred, and cost a little more than a refrigerator. In Munich, the Italian Isetta was improved. BMW Isetta received a more powerful 250-cc 12-horsepower engine. This car became a true salvation for BMW, allowing the company to survive difficult times. From 1955 to 1962, over 160 thousand copies were assembled.
Only by 1950 was the company allowed to manufacture civilian vehicles.
In 1955, the situation for the company became catastrophic, BMW was threatened with bankruptcy and urgently needed to find a solution to overcome the crisis.
Then the company's management, rethinking the needs of the car market, turned its attention to a tiny Italian car with a motorcycle engine.
The owners of BMW agreed with the Italians to purchase the licensing rights for the Isetta and even bought a ready-made assembly line. The little Isetta with one front door, a tiny interior for two and a 9-horsepower motorcycle engine developed a speed of only 75 km/h. Moreover, even acceleration to 50 km/h took half a minute! But the Isetta required only 3 liters of gasoline per hundred, and cost a little more than a refrigerator. In Munich, the Italian Isetta was improved. BMW Isetta received a more powerful 250-cc 12-horsepower engine. This car became a true salvation for BMW, allowing the company to survive difficult times. From 1955 to 1962, over 160 thousand copies were assembled.
Rebirth and new horizons
As the 1960s began, BMW continued to develop its technology and expand its product range. In 1962, the company launched the BMW 1500, which was the first model in the famous "02 Class Necessities" series, giving BMW a new wave of popularity among young people.
The company decided to focus on sports cars, which led to the development of the BMW 507. Although this car was produced in limited quantities, it attracted attention and helped shape BMW's image as a luxury car manufacturer.
The company decided to focus on sports cars, which led to the development of the BMW 507. Although this car was produced in limited quantities, it attracted attention and helped shape BMW's image as a luxury car manufacturer.
Long-awaited success: BMW in the 70s and 80s
The 1970s were a time of significant changes and achievements for BMW. In this decade, the company introduced the legendary BMW 3 Series, which had a huge impact on the market. The BMW 3 Series was the first among all-wheel drive sports cars, changing the idea of the small class of cars. It was with the mid-price category that BMW, having found its new stylish look and additional functions, was able to create a unique image.
In 1982, BMW introduced one of its most significant and famous cars - the BMW 7 Series. It was the first hybrid car that met the highest requirements for comfort and safety. The BMW 7 Series was the perfect choice for those who appreciated luxury and technical achievements. With this model, BMW took a strong position in the luxury car market.
In the second half of the 1980s, BMW focused on the introduction of new technologies, including safety and control systems. It was a time when the introduction of electronics into cars became a trend, which was also confirmed at a high level by the BMW 750iL model - the first car with electronic throttle control.
In 1982, BMW introduced one of its most significant and famous cars - the BMW 7 Series. It was the first hybrid car that met the highest requirements for comfort and safety. The BMW 7 Series was the perfect choice for those who appreciated luxury and technical achievements. With this model, BMW took a strong position in the luxury car market.
In the second half of the 1980s, BMW focused on the introduction of new technologies, including safety and control systems. It was a time when the introduction of electronics into cars became a trend, which was also confirmed at a high level by the BMW 750iL model - the first car with electronic throttle control.
Inimitable Style and Innovation: The 90s and Early 2000s
The nineties were an era for BMW, when the company expanded its product lines and began to actively develop its image. In 1990, a new model was launched - the BMW Z3, which became a cult classic and infected fans of many models. The car was an original combination of style and performance, which allowed it to gain popularity in the film industry in a short time, thanks to the film "James Bond: GoldenEye".
In the early 2000s, BMW introduced a new strategy, focusing on creating cars with stable handling and excellent performance. During this period, another cult model was introduced - the BMW X5, the company's first SUV. This allowed BMW to stand in line with other major SUV manufacturers and strengthen its position in the market.
At this stage, the company also stepped up its efforts in the field of technology and innovation. The introduction of control systems such as the Dynamic Stability System and the Electronic Traction Control System ensured the safety and comfort of driving.
In the early 2000s, BMW introduced a new strategy, focusing on creating cars with stable handling and excellent performance. During this period, another cult model was introduced - the BMW X5, the company's first SUV. This allowed BMW to stand in line with other major SUV manufacturers and strengthen its position in the market.
At this stage, the company also stepped up its efforts in the field of technology and innovation. The introduction of control systems such as the Dynamic Stability System and the Electronic Traction Control System ensured the safety and comfort of driving.
Modern achievements: electric technologies and sustainable development
Since the early 2010s, BMW has been actively reviewing its strategy and adapting to global changes, including environmental and sustainability requirements. In 2013, BMW presented its first all-electric model, the BMW i3, which became a role model in the field of innovation. This car emphasized the company's commitment to the use of renewable energy sources.
In addition, the company is actively developing its line of plug-in hybrid cars. Models such as the BMW 330e and BMW X5 xDrive40e combined traditional internal combustion engines and electric motors, which contributed to improved fuel efficiency and reduced CO2 emissions.
Today, BMW continues to move forward, offering its customers both traditional models and electric cars. The desire for innovation and high technology in each new car determines BMW's approach to production and allows the company to remain at the forefront of the automotive industry.
In addition, the company is actively developing its line of plug-in hybrid cars. Models such as the BMW 330e and BMW X5 xDrive40e combined traditional internal combustion engines and electric motors, which contributed to improved fuel efficiency and reduced CO2 emissions.
Today, BMW continues to move forward, offering its customers both traditional models and electric cars. The desire for innovation and high technology in each new car determines BMW's approach to production and allows the company to remain at the forefront of the automotive industry.
BMW X3 G01
The Legend of the BMW Propeller
On October 5, 1917, the young company received its logo. The first BMW emblem, which was registered in the Imperial Register of Trademarks of Germany, retained the round shape of the old Rapp logo with the addition of two golden lines and the letters "BMW". The logo needed to reflect the Bavarian origin. Therefore, the four sectors of the inner circle of the logo are made in the colors of Bavaria - white and blue. However, they are placed in reverse order due to the legal restrictions of the time.
The legend of the BMW propeller appeared several years after the creation of the first company logo. A BMW advertisement from 1929 depicted airplanes with BMW logos inscribed in rotating propellers. The purpose of this advertisement at the very beginning of the global economic crisis was to promote a new aircraft engine, manufactured by BMW under license from Pratt & Whitney. The propeller fit perfectly into the advertising image of the young company.
Then in 1942, BMW itself associated the propeller with its emblem. An article appeared in the BMW magazine Flugmotoren-Nachrichten (Aircraft Engine News) that only supported the idea of the logo being connected to a rotating propeller.
But it is also incorrect to state unequivocally that the BMW logo is a propeller. But repeated repetitions and this interpretation have been widespread for 90 years, allowing this idea to take root.
Today, BMW is built into its brand – communication, openness and clarity.
The legend of the BMW propeller appeared several years after the creation of the first company logo. A BMW advertisement from 1929 depicted airplanes with BMW logos inscribed in rotating propellers. The purpose of this advertisement at the very beginning of the global economic crisis was to promote a new aircraft engine, manufactured by BMW under license from Pratt & Whitney. The propeller fit perfectly into the advertising image of the young company.
Then in 1942, BMW itself associated the propeller with its emblem. An article appeared in the BMW magazine Flugmotoren-Nachrichten (Aircraft Engine News) that only supported the idea of the logo being connected to a rotating propeller.
But it is also incorrect to state unequivocally that the BMW logo is a propeller. But repeated repetitions and this interpretation have been widespread for 90 years, allowing this idea to take root.
Today, BMW is built into its brand – communication, openness and clarity.
Malaga
February, 2024 г.
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