What Does BMW Stand For?

Though the iconic blue and white BMW logo is instantly recognized by drivers in the Glendale area and around the world, few may know what BMW stands for. Each letter in the BMW name stands for something different because BMW is actually an acronym for Bayerische Motoren Werke, or Bavarian Motor Works as it translates to in English. Explore more about the BMW name, ownership details, and the renowned automaker’s story with Pacific BMW.

The History of the BMW Name

A rose is still a rose by any other name, and a BMW is still a BMW no matter what logo sits atop it’s hood, on its B-pillars, or in the center of the steering wheel. Still, there is power and meaning to a brand, as living up to brand standards creates accountability. So while BMW literally stands for Bavarian Motor Works, more abstractly speaking, it stands for quality, a focus on performance, and the “ultimate driving experience”. Here’s how that came to be over time:

• 1913: BMW has its roots in Rapp Motorenwerke, an aircraft engine manufacturer that was based in Munich, Germany. Rapp Motorenwerke was founded by German entrepreneur Karl Rapp, hence the name.
• 1917: Karl Rapp eventually left Rapp Motorenwerke. The name was then changed by new leadership to Bayerische Motoren Werke.
• 1917: BMW logo is originally developed and slightly evolved over the years. The blue and white elements of the BMW logo nod to the checkered, diamond-patterned Bavarian flag.
• BMW AG is the official holding company of BMW. The “AG” stands for Aktiengesellschaft, which means incorporation owned by shareholders.

Bimmer vs. Beemer

Proud Los Angeles BMW owners may often refer to their beloved vehicle as a “Beemer,” or “Bimmer.” If you’ve ever wondered what the difference is, Pacific BMW can clue you into their use cases. In the United States, auto enthusiasts often take the stance that “Beemer” refers to BMW motorcycles while “Bimmer,” specifically refers to a BMW car. In Canada, it’s more common to hear both “Bimmer,” and “Beemer,” to reference cars and motorcycles interchangeably.

What Is the Current BMW Slogan?

What is the BMW Slogan? The longstanding and well-known BMW slogan “The Ultimate Driving Machine,” was marketed in North America starting in 1974. It was replaced only short-term in 2010 with the slogan “Joy,” but made its return in 2010. Additionally, you may have seen the short-term campaign “Designed for Driving Pleasure,” which ran throughout the last decade.

Test Drive a BMW at Pacific BMW

There’s much more to learn about BMW than just “what BMW stands for”. That’s because BMW motor cars are best experienced behind-the-wheel!

Come to Pacific BMW near Hollywood when safe for more BMW expertise, including which BMW models are the fastest, the most outstanding new models in our inventory, and more BMW history. Then experience the premium German engineering from behind the wheel when you contact us to schedule a test drive.

Want to be one step closer towards driving home in the BMW of your dreams? If you want to get one step closer to your very own ultimate driving machine, you can start the financing process online before you stop in.