7 Interesting Facts About BMW

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BMW is one of the largest and most recognizable luxury car brands in the world. With millions of BMW vehicles on the road today, it’s almost impossible to drive around town without seeing a decent amount of their cars. As arguably one of the best-known German car manufacturers in the world, you may think you know everything about the luxury car company.

In this article, we’ll share seven interesting facts about BMW that you may not have known so you can have a deeper appreciation for the long history of impressive engineering that has led BMW to become one of the premier luxury car brands to ever exist.

Here are seven facts about BMW we think you’ll appreciate:

1. BMW Originally Built Plane Engines

BMW was initially a manufacturer of airplane engines, and a good one at that. The company set records in aviation for both altitude and speed, making key advancements in the industry before making the switch to the auto industry.

2. BMW Stands for Bayerische Motoren Werke

Originally named Bayerische Flugzeugwerke or “BFW,” meaning Bavarian plane manufacturing, the company changed its name to Bayerische Motoren Werke (BMW) in 1917.

3. The BMW Logo is a Tribute to its Bavarian Roots

While some people believe the BMW logo represents the spinning propeller of a plane, hinting at the company’s history as airplane engine manufacturers, the design is actually a tribute to its roots in Bavaria, Germany. The iconic white and blue design reflects the blue and white pattern on the flag of Bavaria, where the company was born.

4. The Company is Over 100 Years Old

Because BMW is known for making ultramodern luxury cars with the latest features and technologies, you may think that the company was founded in the modern era. In fact, BMW was founded in 1916 and just recently celebrated its 100 year anniversary.

5. BMW Only Got into Automobiles after the Treaty of Versailles

One of the most incredible facts about BMW is that it only got into producing automobiles after the Treaty of Versailles following World War I. As a stipulation of the treaty, German companies were no longer allowed to produce warplanes and warplane engines. This forced the company to adapt and expand into the automobile industry.

6. BMW Made its First Electric Car in 1972

A leader in innovation since the company’s inception, BMW debuted its first all-electric car in 1972. The model was an electric version of the popular BMW 1602, and was more a feat of engineering than an actual product for purchase.

7. They Still Produce WWII Era Parts

Unlike many other luxury car brands, BMW continues to produce parts for many of its vehicles dating back to the 1940s. So, if you’re looking to restore an old BMW, you can fit it with the original parts it once had.

Whether you’re looking for top-quality BMW parts or replacement parts for any other luxury vehicle, you can find them at the lowest prices at AutohausAZ. Explore our selection of parts today and see why so many customers return to us for all of their auto parts needs!