BMW (Bayerische Motoren Werke AG) was founded in 1916 in Munich, Germany, initially as a manufacturer of aircraft engines. The company was founded by Franz Josef Popp, Karl Rapp, and Camillo Castiglioni.
Key developments:
- 1916: Founded as aircraft engine manufacturer
- 1928: Began automobile production
- 1959: Avoided takeover by Daimler-Benz
- 1994: Acquired Rover Group (later sold)
- 2003: Acquired Rolls-Royce Motor Cars
Ownership:
- Publicly traded company
- Major shareholders include:
- Quandt family (about 47% combined):
- Susanne Klatten (~19%)
- Stefan Quandt (~29%)
- Institutional and retail investors
- Listed on Frankfurt Stock Exchange
- Quandt family (about 47% combined):
The company has evolved from its aviation origins to become one of the world’s leading premium automobile manufacturers, with additional brands including MINI and Rolls-Royce Motor Cars. Known for luxury vehicles and motorcycles, BMW maintains significant manufacturing facilities globally while keeping its headquarters in Munich.