BMW
s are known for their luxury and performance, but there is a lot of interesting information about these iconic vehicles that many people may not know. Here are some cold, hard facts about BMWs that might surprise you.
1. BMW Started as an Aircraft Engine Manufacturer When BMW was founded in 1916, it started out as a manufacturer of aircraft engines. It wasn't until after World War I that the company turned its focus to producing automobiles.
2. The BMW Logo Represents a Propeller In honor of its aviation roots, the blue and white BMW logo represents a spinning propeller in a blue sky. This logo was introduced in 1929 and remains one of the most recognizable logos in the world today.
3. The First BMW Car Was the BMW 3/15 In 1927, BMW released its first car, the BMW 3/1
5. This car was designed to be affordable and accessible to the average person, which was a departure from the luxury vehicles the company would become known for.
4. BMW's Most Popular Model is the 3 Series Over the years, BMW has produced many iconic cars, but the 3 Series stands out as its most successful model. Since its release in 1975, the 3 Series has sold over 15 million units worldwide.
5. BMW Has Built Over 150 Million Engines In addition to producing cars, BMW has also been a major player in the engine market. Since the company's inception, it has built over 150 million engines, which have been used in everything from cars to boats to aircraft.
6. BMW Makes Its Own Carbon Fiber One of the reasons BMWs are so sought after is their use of lightweight carbon fiber in their vehicles. Unlike other car manufacturers, BMW makes its own carbon fiber, which allows them to control the quality and production process.
7. The BMW i8 is a Plug-In Hybrid While BMW is known for its high-performance gas-powered vehicles, it also produces a range of electric and hybrid cars. The BMW i8, for example, is a plug-in hybrid that combines a gasoline engine with an electric motor to produce impressive performance and efficiency.
8. BMW Has Its Own Museum In Munich, Germany, there is a museum dedicated entirely to BMW. The BMW Museum features exhibits about the history and evolution of the company, as well as displays of classic and modern BMW vehicles. These are just some of the many interesting facts about BMWs. Whether you're a fan of the brand or just appreciate the engineering and design that goes into these vehicles, there's no denying the impact BMW has had on the automotive industry.