BMW of Sterling

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What Does BMW Mean?

2022 BMW 3 Series driving

You know that BMW is a luxury automaker. But what does BMW mean? Is it an acronym? If so, what does BMW stand for? The answer is “Yes” — BMW is an acronym that stands for Bayerische Motoren Werke, which is German for Bavarian Motor Works. In the German language, Motorenwerke is generally a single word, so actually, this is unique to BMW! Read on or contact us at BMW of Sterling to learn everything you need to know about the BMW brand. Meanwhile, you can pre-order the BMW of your dreams online now!

How Did BMW Get Its Name?

The history of BMW stretches back over a century to a few companies that manufactured vehicles and aircraft engines. What’s the origin of the BMW brand and name? Here’s what you should know: 

  • The Rapp Motorenwerke company was founded in 1913 by Karl Rapp. It specialized in producing aircraft engines in Munich, Germany. However, the company changed its name to Bayerische Motoren Werke in 1917 when Rapp left the company.
  • "Bayerische" (Bavarian) was used to indicate that the company's headquarters were located in Bavaria, a federal state in the southeastern region of Germany.
  • The BMW logo with blue and white sections was originally created in 1917. Its colors are a nod to the Bavarian flag, which is a blue and white checkered diamond pattern.
  • The full name of the BMW Group is actually is BMW AG. "AG" stands for Aktiengesellschaft, meaning a corporation owned by shareholders (AKA a publicly-traded company).

More About What BMW Stands For

The blue-and-white checkered pattern on the BMW logo is often thought of as resembling a plane propeller moving through the air. But that’s been largely disputed as popular legend. 

The BMW logo has been updated just five times since it was originally introduced in 1917, but it has always continued to have blue and white elements in a nod to the Bavarian flag. The most recent change retains the same blue-and-white patterning, but the outer circle which surrounds it is now clear instead of black. The font that spells out “BMW” has also changed for a more futuristic look.

What is the BMW Slogan?

"The Ultimate Driving Machine" is the BMW slogan that was used for BMW USA through 1974. While it was replaced temporarily in 2010 with the slogan "Joy.", in 2012 the original slogan made a comeback. 

Experience the BMW Difference at BMW of Sterling

Ready to experience the unique driving pleasure that comes only with sitting behind the wheel of a BMW? Check out our new inventory or use our CarFinder tool. Then, call us if you’d like to schedule a test drive. We’re here to help you into the BMW of your dreams!