What Does BMW Stand For?

2024 bmw xm

If you have a love of German automotive engineering and European style, you’ve probably wondered what BMW stands for. In German, the letters are an acronym for Bayerische Motoren Werke, which translates to Bavarian Motor Works in English. BMW of Florence has the historical details behind what BMW stands for. Learn more about the history of your favorite motor company, then shop our new BMW inventory

How Did BMW Get Its Name?

What does BMW mean? It means a history of over a century that’s been dedicated to creating some of the highest-performing cars in the world and bringing them to the streets of Darlington and Sumter. Here’s how it began: 

  • 1913: Karl Rapp founded Rapp Motorenwerke, a company that made aircraft engines in Munich, Germany.
  • 1917: Rapp left the company, which changed its name to Bayerische Motoren Werke. “Bayerische” translates to “Bavarian.” The company was located in the Bavaria region in southeastern Germany near the Austrian and Czech borders. Around this time, they introduced the first version of the blue and white BMW logo to resemble the Bavarian flag. 

The full name of the company is now BMW AG. “AG” stands for Aktiengesellschaft, meaning an incorporation owned by shareholders.

What Does the BMW Logo Mean? 

There have been five updates to the BMW logo since it first appeared in 1917. Each update has maintained the homage to the Bavarian flag. The most recent update kept the blue and white pattern, but now the outer circle surrounding the pattern is clear instead of black. An updated font is used in the lettering, giving the new logo a more minimalist look. 

What is the BMW Slogan?

Marion drivers know what BMW stands for, in terms of the company’s values, expressed in the slogan “The Ultimate Driving Machine.” The slogan made its North American debut in 1974 and was briefly replaced in 2010 with the word “Joy.” The company revived the classic slogan two years later. 

See What BMW Stands For at BMW of Florence

BMW of Florence has all the answers you want about BMW the company, along with the vehicles. You can learn more from our BMW research hub or when you contact us or stop by our dealership. 

 

More from BMW of Florence

  • 2025 BMW 5 Series Interior

    The 2025 BMW 5 Series interior offers an elegant blend of modern luxury and advanced technology, making every drive a first-class experience. Designed with premium materials and driver-focused features, this luxury sedan delivers exceptional comfort for the driver and passengers. From the ambient lighting to the premium seating, every detail is crafted to elevate your…

  • 2025 BMW X3 Overview

    Popular among Darlington drivers, the 2025 BMW X3 redesign adds even more performance and sophistication to this competent SUV. Are you looking for more information about the updates to the 2025 BMW X3? Discover more about the 2025 BMW X3, including styling and popular features as well as the BMW X3 price by trim level…

  • 2025 BMW X5 Exterior

    You’ll love seeing the elegantly styled 2025 BMW X5 in your Darlington garage. This midsize luxury crossover boasts a sharp-looking exterior with a beautiful range of color options, but is it a good size for your needs? The BMW X5 dimensions lend themselves to smooth handling and agility to help you maneuver like a pro….

Get Directions

2199 David H McLeod Blvd, Florence, SC, 29501
BMW of Florence 34.1883981, -79.8174176.