About the BMW
Bayerische Motoren Werke (better known as BMW) is one of Europe's top automakers. BMW models include the 1 Series, the 3 Series (coupe, sedan, convertible, and compact) 5 Series (sedan and touring), 6 Series (coupe and convertible), and 7 Series sedan. Other models include the M3 coupe and convertible; the X3 and X5 sport utilities; and the Z4 roadster. In addition to its BMW automobiles, the company's operations include motorcycles (K 1200 GT, R 1200 CL, and R 1150 R models, among others), the MINI automotive brand, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, and software (softlab GmbH). BMW's motorcycle division also offers a line of motorcycling apparel such as leather suits, gloves, and boots.
BMW was founded by Karl Friedrich Rapp in October 1913, originally as an aircraft engine manufacturer, Bayerische Flugzeug-Werke. The Milbertshofen district of Munich location was chosen because it was close to the Gustav Otto Flugmaschinenfabrik site, a German aircraft manufacturer. The blue-and-white circular logo BMW still uses (illustrated above right) is a stylized spinning aircraft propeller, and dates from this period in the company's history. The design also alludes to the blue and white checkered flag of Bavaria.
In 1916 the company secured a contract to build V12 engines for Austria-Hungary. Needing extra financing, Rapp gained the support of Camillo Castiglioni and Max Friz, the company was reconstituted as the Bayerische Motoren Werke GmbH. Over-expansion caused difficulties; Rapp left and the company was taken over by the Austrian industrialist Franz Josef Popp in 1917, and named BMW AG in 1918 more [...]
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