| Full title: | Bayerische Motoren Werke AG |
| Other names: | bmw |
| Existence: | 1916 - present day |
| Location: | Germany: Munich |
| Key Figures: | Norbert Reithofer, Chairman of the Board of Directors |
| Products: | Cars, trucks, buses, engines |
| The lineup: | BMW M4; BMW X5 ; |
The impetus to join forces and release more aircraft engines served as the First World War. Military operations required a lot of equipment, and the plant, which arose in 1917, was ready to meet these needs. During the merger, the company was given the name "Bayerische Motoren Werke". The first letters made up the now famous automobile brand BMW.
From aircraft to motorcycle engines
With the end of the First World War, the prosperity of the company also ended. According to the Treaty of Versailles, the Germans lost the right to manufacture engines for aircraft, whose power exceeded 100 hp.
Reprofiling saved the company from bankruptcy. Thanks to optimism, entrepreneurs managed to quickly reorganize and start producing small motors for motorcycles in 1920. Many motorcycle manufacturers have become buyers of BMW boxer engines.
Somewhat later, the company began to assemble the whole two-wheeled product. The first-born - R32 appeared in 1923. The quality of the vehicle can be judged by sales. More than three thousand R32 units were sold by the beginning of 1926. With an engine power of 8.5 hp. the motorcycle could accelerate to 90 km / h or more. The low center of gravity made it very stable. There were no difficulties in handling and care. Taken together, it made it possible to sell the product at a high price of 2.2 thousand imperial marks. Competitors asked for much less for their products. But the R32 was worth that kind of money, because it was the absolute champion in speed and the results of international races have repeatedly confirmed this fact.
Now it is no longer a secret, what used to be a big secret: the company supplied aircraft engines to the USSR. We can say that Russian aviation developed on German aircraft engines. At least, most of the records of the Land of the Soviets in air travel were won precisely on those aircraft on which BMW engines were installed.
In 1928, the firm made two significant acquisitions. First - production area in Eisenach. The second is permission to manufacture Dixi small cars. It was the little Dixi that became the first car produced by BMW. The machine was very popular in a difficult economic period, as it did not require a lot of expenses.
By September 1939, BMW was one of the world's leading vehicle manufacturers. The company focused on the production of sports equipment. For example, the distance record was set on an open plane while flying across the North Atlantic. The speed record belongs to the motorcycle racer Ernst Henne, who managed to accelerate to 279.5 km / h on the R12.
Car - for the driver
The first car with a six-cylinder engine began to be assembled in 1933. Models were assigned the index "303". A few years later, the legendary "328" appeared. This sports car was destined to become a true celebrity. His output formed the concept that lives today: "The car is for the driver." Absolutely all the innovations of the company are designed, first of all, for ease of operation and driver comfort.
Another equally well-known German company Mercedes-Benz is of the opinion that a car, first of all, must satisfy the needs of passengers. “The car is for passengers” is their motto.
Both concepts are relevant, both allow concerns to develop successfully.
As for the BMW 328, it was far ahead of all its rivals in rally, circuit racing, and hill climbing competitions. Connoisseurs sports cars mobiles gave her unconditional superiority.
vicissitudes of fate
The new war did not bypass the BMW factories. Germany again needed aircraft engines. Car production was suspended. Despite the hostilities, but rather because of them, the company is developing rapidly. She was the first in the world to create a jet engine, and also began testing rocket engines.
The end of the war turned out to be a real disaster for the concern. By that time, his factories were scattered throughout Germany. Those that ended up in the east of the country were irretrievably lost. The winners dictated their own rules to the Germans and, in particular, banned the production of engines for aircraft and missiles.
We must pay tribute to the perseverance and hard work of Otto and Rapp, who found the strength in themselves and began to restore production from scratch.
The very first post-war product of the company is the R24 single-cylinder motorcycle. It was assembled not at a factory, but in a small workshop, since the manufacturers had neither production facilities nor equipment.
The first post-war passenger car - "501" appeared in 1951. Here friends miscalculated. This model was a waste of money. They did not receive any profit from the new model.
Four years later, motorcycles of the R 50 and R 51 models began to be assembled. They opened a completely new generation of two-wheeled vehicles. A distinctive characteristic was that the entire chassis. At the same time, the small car "Isetta" appeared. This three-wheeled product was something strange. No longer a motorcycle (there was a door that opened forward), but not yet a car (there was no fourth wheel), Isetta was extremely popular with impoverished Germans for some time.
The passion for powerful engines and the same cars played a cruel joke on the manufacturers. Too much was spent on the production of limousines, but there was no demand for them. So the company was threatened with collapse again. There was talk of selling the company.
Mercedes-Benz announced the purchase of a "brother". But the deal fell through: the owners of BMW shares, its agents and employees opposed such a solution to the issue.
Many years of experience of working together helped to cope with a difficult situation for the third time. The restructuring of finances and a new model of a sports car - BMW-1500 allowed to rise to its former height.
New achievements
The last three decades of the last century, the company has developed rapidly. New capacities were built, equipment was improved. At this time were created:
- "2002-turbo" (for the first time in world practice);
- a system that protects the brakes from blocking. All modern cars are equipped with a similar system;
-Electronic engine management (for the first time).
At the Formula 1 competition in 1983, the driver who started in a Brabham BMW wins. The headquarters moves to a new building in Munich. For testing open a test site in Aschheim. A research facility is being built to conduct the development of improved models.
In the 70s, the first cars of the third, fifth, sixth and seventh series appeared.
From the 69th, motorcycles began to be produced at a factory located in Berlin. Then there were motorcycles - "opposites". The first full-size fairing in '76 was installed on the R100 RS.
The 83rd was marked by the fact that then a well-known brand was released - K100. Its four-cylinder engine was fuel-injected and liquid-cooled. One hundred years since the release of the very first motorcycle was celebrated in the 85th. Then a record number of motorcycles was assembled at the Berlin plant - more than 37 thousand pieces. Another novelty - K1 was presented at a presentation in the 89th.
In the 90s, Germany was reunited, and the concern registered a company called BMW Rolls Royce GmbH. In addition, it was decided to re-engage in the creation of aircraft engines. A year later, the BR-700 engine was ready.
The company significantly strengthened its position when, in 1994, it bought the Rover Group and the largest British complex that produced cars. Land Rover, Rover and MG. The acquisition cost an amount equal to 2.3 billion Deutschmarks. New capacities have replenished the model range of the company with SUVs and ultra-small cars. Four years later, the concern acquired another British company. This time, the famous Rolls-Royce company became her property.
Airbag for front passenger, all production cars BMW began to be completed from the 95th year. And since March of the same year, a station wagon of the third series (touring) was launched into the series.
IN last years of the last century, a lot of interesting motorcycles from a technical point of view appeared. special attention deserves the R100RT Classic. This copy is designed for lovers of tourism, has luggage cases and heated steering wheel grips. Another one was designed for tourist trips. the bike of that same family - R100GS PD. Both models took part in the prestigious world-class Paris-Dakkar rally. They were not only participants, they had four victories on their account.
The F650 model is quite popular. From the very beginning of release (1993), she began to compete on equal terms with Japanese motorcycles similar class.
The development of the R1100RS opposites also began in the 93rd of the 20th century. On this model, for the first time, not only the footrests and handlebars, but also the saddle were equipped with an adjustment mechanism. A year later, two more representatives of a similar model appeared. The first is R1100RT, the second is R850R.
The group of the world's most powerful motorcycles includes the R1100GS. And the tourist K1100RS became the most popular among representatives of motorcycles with four cylinders. It owes its popularity to the sports fairing. Well, the most interesting is the representative K1100LT. The huge fairing of this bike is equipped with an electric drive. He has:
Adjustable windshield;
-large trunks for luggage;
- anti-lock brake system.
Modern concern BMW- this is a well-developed production, which has its offices in all parts of the world. BMW does not rely on automation, all assembly processes are carried out manually. Each copy is subjected to computer diagnostics.
High-quality, safe and comfortable equipment is in constant demand. Therefore, sales are growing every year, and with them the profit of the company.
However, if you prefer cars from Japanese manufacturers, then we can advise you to the lexus Yekaterinburg center. In this dealership, you can buy cars from the ES, IS, GS, LS, CT and RX lines at an affordable price.
Today, BMW is a modern, dignified and popular vehicle manufacturer. However, the history of the BMW company clearly reflects its path, passed in order to gain the trust and respect of its fans.
Currently, the BMW logo adorns cars, motorcycles, bicycles, engines of the best quality. The company's turnover is about 170 billion euros per year, of which about 9 billion is net profit. Major subsidiaries of the brand specialize in the production of small cars, luxury cars and electric vehicles.
Company `s logo
Geographically, the head office of the company is located in Germany, in the city of Munich. Production facilities are located both in some cities in Germany and in other countries. BMW cars have been successfully competing with Mercedes Benz products for many years. Originally founded for the production of aircraft engines, the company has firmly established itself in automotive industry and is one of the flagships in the industry.
Company head office
How it all began
The history of the company's creation began with the fact that in 1916 Karl Friedrich Rapp registered his company for the production of aircraft engines. The headquarters of the future leader of the automotive industry is located in Munich, pursuing certain goals - to be closer to the production facilities for the production of aircraft owned by Gustav Otto, a friend and later companion of Rapp.
Carl Friedrich Rapp, company founder
Almost immediately, the newly created enterprise was lucky in the form of a lucrative contract for the production of engines for Austro-Hungarian aircraft. Along the way, there was also a difficulty - a lack of finance. To solve the latter problem, the company was able to expand by hiring co-founders who provided cash flow. Unfortunately, such an expansion brought a series of setbacks that led to the departure of the founder of the company. The reins of government passed to Franz Joseph Popp, thanks to whom, since 1918, history has continued as a BMW company.
During the historical events of that time, after the conclusion of the Versailles Peace Treaty, the production of aircraft in Germany became impossible - it was prohibited, and the history of the company turned in a different direction - the manufacture of brake systems for trains and trains.
But not for long bmw brand had a connection with railway transport - already in 1923, the first motorcycle was produced under this brand. BMW motorcycles immediately captivated the public with their level - the cars were well thought out, ideal for racing use and spectacular in appearance.
Having made an excellent impression on buyers with motorcycles, the founders of the company did not stop there and in 1928 the first production capacity for the production of automobiles. Since that time, along with motorcycles, the first car has received the right to life.
Automotive history
The history of BMW cars began with small cars. At that time (and this is the 20-30s of the XX century), small cars were at the peak of popularity due to their fuel economy, maneuverability and ease of control. So, the first developed and produced BMW car was the Dixi 3/15 PS. She only had 20 Horse power, but a number of its advantages were complemented by the ability to reach speeds of up to 80 km / h, a four-cylinder engine and impeccable workmanship. This model was largely copied from the famous English brand, so in 1933 the model range was replenished with a small-capacity in-house design: the BMW 303.
303
A small engine capacity was comfortably combined in it with a relatively light body and not a bad power of 30 horsepower. It was already a real representative of the brand, with a characteristic appearance of the radiator grille in our time.
In 1936-1937, BMW 321 and 327 were produced - full-fledged cars overall dimensions, with a two-liter engine. Beautiful, high quality and very affordable. Thus, the history of BMW, as a brand that guarantees the highest quality of products, began in 1927 and continues today.
Post-war recovery
The forced break in the automotive industry due to hostilities and their consequences also affected BMW. Factories located in Germany were not able to produce cars and motorcycles. Permission to manufacture them was obtained only in 1948.
The first BMW 501 produced after the war was notoriously unsuccessful. Firstly, while work was underway to develop it and obtain permits for release, the machine was already morally and physically outdated - the engine did not have good power, and the appearance did not attract buyers. Secondly, the price of the 501 was too high for post-war Germany, a fact that has never boosted sales.
501
Swallowing failure, the Bavarians set to work, which brought great results. In 1954, the release of the 502 took place, which, outwardly, seemed to be one of the versions of the 501, but had a clear advantage - an all-aluminum V8 engine. Prior to this, the history of automotive engines has never known such a motor.
502
A good profit was provided by the mass production of a new model manufactured under an Italian license - BMW Isetta. This is a small machine with one door and a motorcycle engine. Such little ones were very popular; they were collected more than sixteen thousand copies.
Isetta
Hard times
In the mid-50s of the twentieth century, the history of the company's development was marked by the development and release of two chic BMW models: the 503 and 507 Roadster. The first was immediately noticed at the motor show in 1955 due to the original body structure called hartop.
507 roadster
A powerful engine and the ability to reach speeds of almost two hundred kilometers per hour are guaranteed to make this model the main participant in the show in Frankfurt. The 507th BMW immediately after the release was recognized as one of the most beautiful cars in the world. It combined a 3.2-liter engine with an elegant body design designed by Count Albrecht Hertz. By the way, one of these roadsters became famous after being bought by Elvis Presley.
Unfortunately, although these BMW cars were created stylish and of high quality, they also had a very expensive cost, which could not but affect the financial condition of the company. Motorcycle production remained at an average level, expensive sedans were bought little, and small cars are no longer as popular as they used to be. The history of the BMW brand is again faced with the possibility of a premature end.
Renaissance
In December 1959, a possible sale of the company was announced. The crisis was helped to resolve the 700 model. It was decorated with a Michelotti body, and the functionality was provided by an engine of 700 cubic meters and a power of 30 horsepower. A feature of this model is the location of the motor at the back. The 700 was well received by the public and orders poured in one after another.
700
Having experienced a slight upsurge, the brand already in 1962 not only got on its feet confidently, but also gained fame, known to this day. BMW 1500 - it was this model that brought worldwide fame to the Bavarian company. Rear-wheel drive, with a recognizable body deflection and grille, it was equipped with a four-cylinder engine - so excellent in every respect that even Soviet engineers paid tribute to it, copying it for their creation - Moskvich.
1500
In the 1960s, the history of BMW rapidly developed the direction of sedans and coupes with a spectacular appearance and attractive technical characteristics. 1962 was the year of the release of the BMW 3200 CS with a Bertone body, 1965 was marked by the production of the first car with automatic transmission - it was BMW coupe 2000.
3200CS
The power of a car is growing rapidly every year, already in 1968 a car of this brand overcame the bar of 200 km / h. We are talking about the BMW 2800 CS.
Rapid development
This period fell on 70-90 years of the last century. The BMW 3.0 C SL is a legendary racing model capable of reaching speeds of up to 220 km / h, with an improved engine and a novelty of those times - ABS brakes.
The BMW 2000 Turbo is the pioneer of serial production of turbocharged cars.
BMW 3er - with this model, the production of the third series of bodies began. Here, a new generation engine with a cooling fan was presented, and the chassis was improved.
bmw 6er coupe sports class, which has a stunning appearance, a reliable Big Six engine. In this series, the models have undergone many changes. Already by 1989, they had a sunroof, a leather interior in body color, a computer, disc brakes, and air conditioning.
The BMW 7er is a luxury sedan body. Quite a few models were released in this series. 728, 730 and 733i are among the first to have Chek-control, flow indicators and a ZF automatic in their arsenal.
733i
Subsequent models were more advanced, including turbocharging, full power accessories and leather interior. In 1986, it was the BMW "seven" that was first equipped with a twelve-cylinder engine.
Luxurious, reliable, expensive
Observing the changes in modifications of cars bearing BMW emblems, we can say with confidence that every year the equipment of cars is becoming more and more luxurious, able to provide for the slightest needs of users, providing complete comfort and convenience in any situation.
BMW cars continue to be produced in sedans and coupes, and already in 1998, the third series model was released, which is presented both in a sedan, and in a station wagon, and in a hatchback. And 1999 was the year of birth, one might say, of the already legendary X5 crossover.
X5
The main feature of this model is the same good fitness to off-road and to the autobahn - so far no one has managed to combine these qualities in their offspring. She made a real sensation among motorists and became a bestseller for many years.
In 2001, the history of BMW models made another steep turn, presenting its creation from the 7er line - E65, which differs from all previously made ones by a radically new approach to controlling the mechanism. For her, the i-Drive system was developed, which allows coordinating up to 700 parameters, a six-speed automatic transmission and a servo brake.
E65
Analyzing the history of everything model range bmw, the principle of success of this company becomes clear. Here, the priority is intellectual technical developments, the implementation of the most daring ideas, customer focus in detail, as well as the foresight of shareholders and the correct monitoring of market demand.
History of motorcycle construction
Despite the clear priority in the automotive industry, motorcycles were, are and will be in demand. This type of transport has its own advantages, its own market and range.
The very first motorcycle in the history of the company was created by engineer Max Friz, embodying a radically new idea for the structure of this vehicle. His idea was unusual for 1922 and consisted in the possibility of installing the engine not along, but across the longitudinal axis of the motorcycle.
First motorcycle
The development led to the release of the innovative R32. It was presented at the famous motor show in 1923 and received loud publicity and rapidly growing popularity, despite the rather high cost.
Having widely presented its new product both in the form of urban transport and in the form of racing, the company began to improve the first model. Within ten years, motorcycles bearing BMW emblems have undergone significant changes. The tubular frames have been replaced by pressed metal bases, the engine displacement reaches 750 "cubes", the front wheel fork is equipped with shock absorption. The R12 and R17 models produced in 1935 looked similar.
R17
The world-wide fame of BMW as a manufacturer of motorcycles was brought by racing. It is by constantly setting new speed records that the German brand's motor vehicles have become incredibly popular not only in their own country, but also abroad. A well-known victory for the BMW brand was brought in 1939 by the racing driver George Mayer, who created a unique compressor that combines the lightness of a car and a high speed limit.
The Second World War also served as an excellent advertisement for the brand. Concerned about providing troops with equipment, the authorities gave preference to BMWs, given their previous merits in terms of speed and ease of operation and maintenance. Some models were created directly for military purposes, such as the R 75, which received a lot of positive feedback and awards from military leaders in different countries.
R75
After the war, the company set itself a more urgent goal for peacetime - ensuring the comfort of the driver and passengers of motorcycles. In 1951, the R51/3 was released with an improved Boxer engine and a smoother ride.
Over time, the manufacturer will continue to work on bringing the configuration and characteristics of their motorcycles. In the 60s, the fashion for this type of transport, both for movement and for sports, will spread throughout Europe and even America.
Motorcycles are becoming profitable to produce in series. Comfortable and reliable BMW models are widely used and world famous. The new 750cc R75/5 is not only different high speed, but also ease of operation, design and quality of components.
In 1973, a jubilee, 500,000 copy of the motorcycle, the R 90 S, was released. Its distinctive features are a streamlined shape and an increased engine capacity. Soon it was supplemented by an even more updated R 100 RS. The production of motorcycles has become (and still remains) in demand.
R 100 RS
1980 was a significant year in the field of motorcycle production at BMW factories. A single pendulum has been developed for the R 80 G/S rear wheel- this design allowed the car to overcome impassability without sacrificing speed.
Further developments made it possible to equip the K100 with electronic fuel injection and provide it with 90 horsepower. Also in 1993, another novelty conquered women's hearts - the F650 single-cylinder bearer of the blue and white brand badge.
The heyday of the production of motor vehicles fell on the 90s of the last century. In 1996, the company suspends the production of three-cylinder models (K75) and switches to four-cylinder - 1200 RS with an engine of 1171 cubic centimeters and a power of 130 horsepower. Perfectly tuned suspension and drive make the new product a sales star, it is popular both for tourism and for traveling around cities and autobahns.
Motorcycles are currently represented in huge assortment, there are also touring models that pass on any road or even in its absence, high-speed sports bikes that can satisfy the most sophisticated drivers, and, of course, classic city riding options - elegant or extravagant.
BMW motorcycles are constantly being improved, their quality has long been confirmed by years of successful operation, reliable design and the authority of this brand.
History of engines
BMW was originally formed as an engine company, and it is not so important that the engines were planned to be produced for the aircraft industry! Be that as it may, when establishing production, the founders relied on the quality of this particular part of the machines - the company has always designed, assembled and improved engines for its cars and motorcycles on its own, achieving stable operation and maximum performance.
Produced at the very beginning, the engines mainly had military purpose and made to order for the German army. But after the end of the Second World War and the conclusion of the Treaty of Versailles, which prohibits the production military equipment, the plant had to direct its activities in a slightly different direction.
The first engines produced by the company were the primitive M10-M50, this was the first generation of engines that did not yet have special requirements, their repair was frequent and how simple, which at times was carried out independently by the owners of the cars.
Engines improved over time had an intake valve timing control mechanism - VANOS. They can already be attributed to the new generation of motors. Here, the wear resistance of the engine is significantly increased and environmental parameters of operation are taken into account.
The next step is the thermostat, which opens at 97 degrees, this made it possible to perfectly adapt the motor for driving in urban conditions. These engines have a function complete combustion fuel. Such engines (and these are M54, M52TU) work with an electronic gas pedal, the sensitivity of which is increased tenfold. This device is very whimsical to the choice of brand of fuel. The quality of the product being poured directly affects its proper operation and service life.
Sport in BMW history
Releasing such a huge variety of models of cars and motorcycles, the history of BMW could not ignore such a popular field of application of technology as sports. Often sports models brought the brand popularity and ensured sales growth!
The first BMW sports car was made in 1936 and instantly made a splash in the world of motorsport. It was a BMW 328, its design perfectly combined the light weight of the car and good power with an engine capacity of only two liters. In subsequent years, based on this model, other, faster ones were also released.
First sports car
The shareholders of the company, seeing a successful trend in the development of production in the sports direction, in 1972 created subsidiary— BMW Motorsport GmbH. It was designed specifically for the development, production and refinement of racing models.
In 1973, the BMW 3.0 CSL received dizzying fame after participating in circuit races. This model also had a corresponding racing look - trunk spoilers, enlarged wings, and besides this - a lot of advantages in technical equipment. The first turbocharged variant, the BMW 2002 turbo, had a similar career, and a unique engine was developed for it, adapted specifically for the race track.
It was at this time that BMW confidently became a leader in sports series, releasing racing new items with light weight and high power. Both automobiles and motorcycles are produced in this area. In the automotive industry, the CSL series continues to develop, a six-cylinder engine appears, a brake ABS system, body made of special lightweight alloys.
BMW motorcycles are developing very rapidly in the racing business - the main focus of the company's designers is in this direction. Engines for racing cars are being developed. The acclaimed Boxer series of motorcycles has undergone many improvements, including special racing engines, wheel dampers and off-road capability. In particular, it was on a BMW motorcycle (it was R 90 S) in 1976 that the Superbike Championship in America was held.
R90S
All these successes led to the opening in 1988 of special production BMW capacities Motorsport GmbH in Munich.
For more than 50 years, there has been a separate racing program from BMW Motorsport, which provides for the production and sale of cars for racing sports.
origin of name
The name BMW logically comes from the original purpose of the company: Bayerische Motoren Werke, namely "Bavarian engine factories". The history of the brand began shortly before the First World War, when this enterprise for the production of aircraft engines was created.
Officially, this happened in Munich, July 20, 1917 - from this date the countdown begins. bmw history. The founders of the Bavarian motor factories were Karl Rapp and Gustav Otto - having opened their two small companies, they subsequently merged them into one, which just became the world-famous BMW.
Creation of a logo
No less interesting is the history of the brand logo. Known to every modern person, the blue and white BMW emblems were developed at the very beginning of the founding of the enterprise and symbolized the white propeller of an airplane against a blue sky background.
The creation of the logo was directly influenced by the history of the creation of this brand. Since the company was founded as the Bavarian Motor Works and produced aircraft engines. It is quite natural that the history of the logo began with the design in the sky style.
First emblem
The very first version in the history of the emblem, approved in 1917, depicted the propeller of a flying aircraft. The idea was great, but the execution of such a logo turned out to be complicated and visually the details were small. In a small badge, it was not at all clear what exactly was depicted on it. Therefore, in 1920, the shareholders of the company decided to improve it.
Logo evolution
The image of the propeller was simplified to the form that is known in our time: blue and white diamonds. The white quarters of the circle symbolize the propeller of the engine, the blue ones are the sky background. Such an image is doubly relevant, since it is in white and blue colors that the flag and coat of arms of Bavaria go.
The history of the BMW mark is simple and uncomplicated, and the logo of this brand is known all over the world and is recognizable at first sight.
A look into the future
A company that has survived more than one crisis, has made many technical discoveries and the right marketing moves, and is firmly on its feet, is simply doomed to a successful career. Celebrating its centenary, BMW set itself the goal of "The Next 100 Years".
Market research and customer needs are currently being researched. A careful analysis of the data will lead to the development and production of the latest types of machines, taking into account modern digital technologies. Active development includes additive technologies and total process automation, digital intelligence, the possibility of robotic vehicle control and other innovations.
BMW also pays special attention to environmental protection; it was the first in the world to introduce requirements for compliance with environmental standards for its production facilities. In the future, it is planned to focus on this problem, taking into account new types of fuel, electric vehicles and similar measures.
BMW has been, is and will remain one of the leaders in the global automotive industry. Quality, exterior, technical data and ease of operation, which invariably accompany absolutely all products of this brand, have been speaking for themselves for more than a hundred years.
On the exchange
Name
In Russian, the name "BMW" is pronounced "be-em-ve", which is close to the German pronunciation; occasionally there is a spelling "BMW". In English-speaking countries, they pronounce "b-m-double-u". There are also several "unofficial" names: for the company's motorcycles, the name "beamer" (eng. beemer) has historically developed, for cars - similar, but not equivalent "bimmer" (eng. bimmer). In Russia, the names “beha”, “bimmer”, “boomer”, “beamer” can also be used to designate a brand, in Greece - “beba”, in Arab countries - “BM”. Cars can also be named according to their series, for example, for the 5th series - “five”, German. Fünfer, eng. fiver.
Story
Before World War II
Since 1929, the white and blue round BMW emblem, which is still in use today (shown at the top right), for convenience, begins to be interpreted as an airplane propeller against a blue sky. BMW claims that the white and blue colors in the logo are taken from the flag of Bavaria. In 1916, the company signs a contract for the production of V12 engines for Austria-Hungary. Needing additional funding, Rapp receives the support of Camillo Castiglioni and Max Fritz, the company is re-established as Bayerische Motoren Werke GmbH. The rapid growth of the company in 1917 caused some difficulties, after which Rapp left the company, the management passed to the Austrian industrialist Franz Josef Popp, and in the year the company was renamed BMW AG. Interwar periodIn 1919, Franz Diemer set the first BMW world record by flying a BMW-powered airplane to a height of 9,760 meters. After World War I, under the terms of the Treaty of Versailles in 1919, the production of aircraft in Germany was prohibited, as a result of which Gustav Otto closed his factory, and BMW switched to the production of agricultural machinery, household items and brakes for trains. In 1922, east of the Munich Oberwiesenfeld airport, BMW built its current main building (today the city's Olympic Centre). In 1923, the first BMW motorcycle was produced at the Munich factory. In 1924, the first intercontinental flight to Persia took place on an airplane equipped with BMW engines. In 1926, the seaplane Rohrbach Ro VII with BMW VI engines sets five world records. In 1927, 87 world air records were set, 29 of them on aircraft powered by BMW. The Second World WarAfter the warThe BMW concern, powerful in the pre-war era, found itself in a critical situation after the Second World War, largely due to the ban on the production of aircraft engines that formed the basis of its business and the destruction or occupation by Germany's enemies in the world war of the concern's factories in Munich (American zone of occupation of Germany) and Eisenach ( Soviet military administration of Germany). So, Milbertshofen Automobile Plant near Munich, according to the decision of the American occupation authorities, was subject to demolition. Like other German car companies with their industrial base destroyed by the Second World War, it took years for BMW to revive as a serious car manufacturer: it was not until 1962 that the company launched a car on the market that allowed it to fulfill this task. BMW's strategy in the post-war years was to try to improve things by producing low-power motorcycles, since after the war the Allies only allowed BMW to produce motorcycles up to 250 cc, and also banned the production of large comfortable sedans. [ ] In addition, the company lost the plant in Eisenach, which remained in the territory occupied by the Soviet troops, and then in the newly formed GDR. However, market conditions and the attempts made by BMW management to restore the production of aircraft engines led BMW to the very brink of the abyss, which almost ended in the establishment of control over it from the eternal competitor - Mercedes-Benz. Production of light motorcyclesHowever, the company's staff managed to save BMW through the release of household goods and bicycles, which changed the Americans' decision to demolish the plant. Subsequently, permission was obtained for the production of light motorcycles, so in 1948 the R24 motorcycle from Munich became the first post-war BMW product. Like its 1930s predecessor, the R24 was equipped with a proprietary gimbal BMW transmission, was painted black and had a white upholstery of the stroller. Unlike its predecessor, this product had a single-cylinder engine with a working volume of only 247 cm 3, much more low price, and, as a result, was much more accessible and in great demand among Germans in need of means of transportation. By 1951, BMW was producing more than 18 thousand of these motorcycles a year, which made a profit and ensured the development of a new model - R51 - already with a 2-cylinder boxer engine. Significant dates in the history of BMW
Owners and managementAs of July 25, 2011, Stefan Quandt owns 17.4% of the automaker's shares, his sister Susanne Klatten - 12.6%, their mother Johanna Quandt - 16.7%. 53.3 percent of the company's shares are traded on the market. ActivityIn 2007, the BMW concern produced 1,203,482 cars (a drop of 7.6% compared to the same period in 2006). BMW intends to increase production by 25% in 2020. Thus, having produced 2.4 million cars in 2016, in 3.5 years BMW plans to produce at least 3 million. Main BMW competitor in the passenger car market is Mercedes-Benz. The company also competes with Audi and Lexus cars. Member of the Association of European Automobile Manufacturers (ACEA). The main production facilities of the company are concentrated in Germany (Dingolfing, Regensburg, Leipzig, Munich). Also, cars are assembled at enterprises in Thailand, Malaysia, India, Egypt, South Africa, Vietnam and the USA (Spartanburg). In Russia bmw cars assembled in Kaliningrad ("Avtotor"). In China, BMW is partnering with Huacheng Auto Holding, a manufacturer of cars under the brand name Brilliance. see alsoNotes
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In 1913, on the northern outskirts of Munich, Karl Rapp and Gustav Otto, the son of the inventor of the internal combustion engine, Nikolaus August Otto, set up two small aircraft engine companies. The outbreak of the First World War immediately brought numerous orders for aircraft engines. Rapp and Otto decide to merge into one aircraft engine plant. Thus, an aircraft engine factory was established in Munich, which in July 1917 was registered under the name Bayerische Motoren Werke ("Bavarian Motor Works") - BMW. This date is considered to be the year of foundation of BMW, and Karl Rapp and Gustav Otto its founders.
Although the exact date of appearance and the moment the company was founded is still the subject of controversy between automotive historians. And all because the BMW industrial company was officially registered on July 20, 1917, but long before that, in the same city of Munich, there were many firms and associations that were also involved in the development and production of aircraft engines. Therefore, in order to finally see the “roots” of BMW, it is necessary to travel back to the last century, to the territory of the GDR that existed not so long ago. It was there that on December 3, 1886, the involvement of today's BMW in the automotive business was “lit up”, and it was there, in the city of Eisenach, in the period from 1928 to 1939. was the headquarters of the company.
Heinrich Ehrhardt and the Wartburg Motorized Carriage
On December 3, 1896, in the city of Eisenach, Heinrich Ehrhardt founded a factory for the production of cars for the needs of the army and, oddly enough, bicycles. Already the fifth in the district. And, probably, Erhardt would have produced dark green mountain bikes, ambulances and mobile soldiers' kitchens if he had not seen the success that accompanied Daimler and Benz with their motorized sidecars.
And it was decided to make something light, not military, and, of course, different from what competitors have already done. But to save time and money, Ehrhardt bought a license from the French. The Parisian car was called Ducaville.
So there was what today is called BMW. And then this monster was called the "Wartburg motorized carriage", and it was not its own development. A couple of years later, in September 1898, the Wartburg arrived on its own at an automobile exhibition in Düsseldorf and took its place on a par with Daimler, Benz, Opel and Durkopp.
1917: Rapp company motor company renamed BMW Bayerische Motoren Werke
One of the local sights of Eisenach was the reason for the appearance of the name of the first car ("Wartburg"), which was released in 1898 after the company created a number of 3- and 4-wheeled prototypes. The first-born Wartburgs were the most horseless wagon equipped with a 0.5-liter 3.5 hp engine. There were no hints of the presence of front and rear suspensions. Such a simplified design became a good incentive for the more progressive work of local engineers and designers, who a year later created a car that accelerated to 60 km / h. Moreover, in 1902, the Wartburg appeared with a 3.1-liter engine and a 5-speed gearbox, which was enough to win the race in Frankfurt that year.
Very important point 1904 began in the history of BMW and the Eisenach plant, when cars called Dixie were exhibited at the Frankfurt Motor Show, indicating the good development of the enterprise and a new level of production. There were two models in total - "S6" and "S12", the numbers in the designation of which indicated the amount of horsepower. (By the way, the "S12" model was not discontinued until 1925.)
1919: Franz Zeno Diemer (center) with his record-breaking aircraft
Max Fritz, who worked at the Daimler plant, was invited to the position of chief designer at Bayerische Motoren Werke. Under the direction of Fritz was made aircraft engine BMW IIIa, which in September 1917 successfully passed bench tests. The aircraft equipped with this engine set a world record at the end of the year, having risen to 9760 m.
At the same time, the BMW emblem appeared - a circle divided into two blue and two white sectors, which was a stylized image of a propeller rotating against the sky. It was also taken into account that blue and white are the national colors of Bavaria.
After the end of the First World War, the company was on the verge of collapse, because, under the Treaty of Versailles, the Germans were forbidden to produce engines for aircraft, namely, engines at that time were the only products of BMW. But the enterprising Karl Rapp and Gustav Otto find a way out - the plant is converted to the production of motorcycle engines first, and then the motorcycles themselves. In 1923, the first R32 motorcycle leaves the BMW factory. At the 1923 motorcycle show in Paris, this first BMW motorcycle immediately gained a reputation for speed and reliability, which was confirmed absolute records speeds at international motorcycle races of the 20s-30s.
1923: The first BMW motorcycles
In the early 20s, two influential businessmen appeared in the history of BMW - Gothaer and Shapiro, to whom the company went, falling into the abyss of debts and losses. The main reason for the crisis was the underdevelopment of automotive production, along with which the enterprise, by the way, was engaged in the production of aircraft engines. And since the latter, unlike cars, brought the bulk of the means of subsistence and development, BMW was in an unenviable position. The "cure" was invented by Shapiro, who was on a short footing with the English car manufacturer Herbert Austin and was able to agree with him on the start of mass production of "Austins" in Eisenach. Moreover, the release of these machines was put on the conveyor, which by that time, except for BMW, only Daimler-Benz could boast.
1928 Austin 7
The first 100 licensed "Austins", which enjoyed incredible success in Britain, left the assembly line in Germany with a right-hand drive, which was new for the Germans. Later, the design of the machine was changed in accordance with local requirements, and the machines were produced under the name "Dixie". By 1928, more than 15,000 Dixies (read Austins) were made, which played a decisive role in the revival of BMW. This first became noticeable in 1925, when Shapiro became interested in the possibility of producing cars of his own design and began to negotiate with the famous designer and designer Wunibald Kamm. As a result, an agreement was reached, and another talented person was involved in the development of the now famous automobile brand. Kamm has been developing new components and assemblies for BMW for several years.
1929: First BMW car: BMW 3/15 PS.
In the meantime, the issue of approving a branded trademark was resolved positively for BMW. In 1928, the company acquired car factories in Eisenach (Thuringia), and with them a license for subcompact car Dixi. November 16, 1928 "Dixie" ceased to exist as a trademark - it was replaced by "BMW". Dixi is the first BMW car. During a period of economic difficulties, the small car becomes the most popular car Europe.
On April 1, 1932, the premiere of the first “real” BMW was scheduled, which subsequently earned the recognition of the automotive press and became the starting point for the production of a car of its own design. The same car, with a well-thought-out body received from the outside, was a combination of new ideas and developments with those already well known and used on Dixie models. The engine power was 20 hp, which was enough to drive at a speed of 80 km / h. A very successful development four-speed box transmission, not offered on any other model until 1934.
By the beginning of World War II, BMW was one of the most dynamically developing companies in the world, producing sports-oriented equipment. She has several world records to her credit: Wolfgang von Gronau crosses the North Atlantic from east to west in an open seaplane Dornier Wal, equipped with a BMW engine, Ernst Henne on an R12 motorcycle equipped with a cardan drive, hydraulic shock absorbers and a telescopic fork (invented by BMW), sets a world speed record for motorcycles - 279.5 km / h, not surpassed by anyone for the next 14 years.
Production receives an additional boost after the conclusion of a secret agreement with Soviet Russia to supply her with the latest aircraft engines. Most of the Soviet record flights of the 1930s were made on aircraft equipped with BMW engines.
1933: Beginning of the BMW six-cylinder tradition: BMW 303.
In 1933, the production of the 303 model began - the first BMW car with a 6-cylinder engine, which made its debut at the Berlin Automobile Exhibition. His appearance was a real sensation. This inline "six" with a displacement of 1.2 liters allowed the car to move at a speed of 90 km / h and became the basis for many subsequent BMW sports projects. Moreover, it was used on the new model "303", which became the first in the history of the company, which was equipped with a radiator grille with a corporate design, expressed in the presence of two elongated ovals. The "303rd" model was designed at the Eisenach factory and differed primarily tubular frame, independent front suspension and good handling characteristics, reminiscent of sports.
"BMW-303" was perfect for the "autobahns" then actively built in Germany. Immediately after the presentation, a run was made on it across the entire country, and in this action the car proved itself only on the good side. People were willing to pay the price set by the manufacturer for this car. Moreover, wealthy BMW fans chose the “303rd” model with a sports two-seater roadster body.
For two years of production of the BMW-303, the company managed to sell 2,300 of these cars, which, by the way, were later followed by their "brothers", distinguished by more powerful engines and other digital designations: "309" and "315". Actually, they became the first samples for the logical development of the BMW model designation system. On the example of these machines, we note that the number "3" denoted the series, and 0.9 and 1.5 - the displacement of the engines. The designation system that appeared then successfully exists to this day, with the only difference being that it was replenished with such numbers as "520", "524", "635", "740", "850", etc.
"BMW-315" was far from the last in a series of outwardly similar cars, as the brightest and most notable among them were the "BMW-319" and "BMW-329", more related to sports cars. The maximum speed of the first, for example, was 130 km / h.
Along with all the previous cars, the 326 model, which appeared at the Berlin Automobile Exhibition in 1936, looked simply gorgeous. This four-door car was far from the world of sports, and its rounded design already belonged to the direction that came into force in the 50s. open top, good quality, a chic interior and a large number of new changes and additions put the 326th model on a par with Mercedes-Benz cars, whose buyers were very wealthy people.
With a mass of 1125 kg, the BMW-326 model accelerated to a maximum of 115 km / h and at the same time consumed 12.5 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers. With similar characteristics and with its appearance, the car got into the list best models company and was produced until 1941, when BMW production amounted to almost 16,000 units. With so many produced and sold cars "BMW-326" became the best pre-war model.
Logically, after such a resounding success of the “326th” model, the next logical step should have been the appearance of a sports model made on its basis.
1938: The BMW 328 dominates racing.
1940: Mille Miglia wins again: BMW 328.
In 1936, BMW produced the famous "328" - one of the most successful sports cars. With its appearance, the BMW ideology was finally formed, which to this day determines the concept of new models: “The car is for the driver.” The main competitor, Mercedes-Benz, follows the principle: "The car is for passengers." Since then, each company has gone its own way, proving that its choice is the right one.
The winner of a great many competitions - circuit races, rallies, hill climbs - the BMW 328 was addressed to sports car connoisseurs and left all mass-produced sports cars far behind. The two-door, two-seater, truly sporty "BMW-328" was equipped with a six-cylinder engine and accelerated to 150 km / h. This model allowed the company to take part in many pre-war races and win recognition in a new quality. With the “328th” model, BMW became so famous in the second half of the 30s that all subsequent cars with a two-color brand name were perceived by the public as a symbol High Quality, reliability and beauty.
The outbreak of war leads to the suspension of the production of cars. Priority is once again given to aircraft engines.
1943: The Arado 234 is one of the first aircraft to be powered by the BMW 003 jet engine.
In 1944, BMW was the first in the world to launch the BMW 109-003 jet engine. Rocket engines are also being tested. The end of World War II was a disaster for the concern. Four factories that ended up in the Eastern zone of occupation were destroyed and dismantled.
The main plant in Munich was dismantled by the British. In connection with the production of aircraft engines and missiles during the war, the winners issue an order to ban production for three years
World War II took a toll on German car manufacturers, and BMW was no exception. The plant in Milbertshofen was completely bombed, and the enterprise in Eisenach ended up on the territory controlled by the USSR. Therefore, the equipment from there was partially exported to Russia as repatriations, and what remained was used to produce the BMW-321 and BMW-340 models, which were also sent to the USSR.
The only more or less "livable" were two factories in the city of Munich, around which the shareholders of BMW and concentrated their main efforts. By the way, the support of the German National Bank came: thanks to it, the company brought the concept of the BMW 328 sports car back to life and in the period from 1948 to 1953. released several new sports models on its basis.
The company was not in best position, however, in 1951 it introduced a prototype of the future BMW-501 car, which was distinguished by a large four-door sedan, drum brakes and a 65-horsepower engine with a working volume of 1971 cc. The novelty was received in two ways - with interest and with surprise. The second, most likely, was due to the fact that the company could not even financially ensure the mass production of the “501st” model, in connection with which only 49 cars were assembled in 1952. By 1954, production reached 3410 copies, bought only by real and wealthy adherents of the BMW brand.
But what is most surprising is the idea that at that time was ripening in the minds of BMW designers and designers. They planned to release a luxury model.
In the same post-war years, BMW thought about the lack of necessary motors. This was especially evident after the presence of weak and low-torque engines began to affect car sales. As a result, the designers developed a long-term project for the production of a new eight-cylinder power unit. The first samples appeared in 1954 and had a volume of 2.6 liters and a power of 95 hp, increased to 100 hp. in the 60s.
Simultaneously with the installation of an eight-cylinder on the BMW-501, the appearance of the car also changed a little: chrome-plated side moldings appeared that added elegance to the car. Equipped with a new engine, the 501st could accelerate to a maximum speed of 160 km / h. Naturally, the fuel consumption of a car with an eight-cylinder engine was significantly different from pre-war figures, but this worried BMW management the least.
"Isetta" (Isetta): a link between motorcycles and cars. Over 200,000 were built.
1955 saw the launch of the R 50 and R 51 models, inaugurating a new generation of fully sprung motorcycles. undercarriage, the small car "Isetta" comes out, a strange symbiosis of a motorcycle with a car. A three-wheeled vehicle with a forward-opening door was a huge success in impoverished post-war Germany. At the Frankfurt Motor Show in 1955, she became the absolute opposite of the models produced at that time. The tiny BMW Isetta looked like a bubble with small attached headlights and side mirrors. The rear wheelbase was much smaller than the front. The model was equipped with a single-cylinder engine of 0.3 liters. With a power of 13 hp "Isetta" accelerated to a maximum of 80 km / h.
Along with the little Isetta, BMW introduced two luxury coupes, the 503 and 507, based on the 5 Series sedan.
1956: Today it's a rare collector's car: the BMW 507.
Both cars were at that time referred to as “sufficiently sporty”, although they had a “civilian” appearance. For example, the maximum speed of the 507th varied somewhere between 190 and 210 km / h. A similar result was achieved thanks to a 3.2-liter engine with a compression ratio of 7.8: 1, maximum power 150 HP at 5000 rpm and 237 Nm at 4000 rpm. Servo drum brakes were on all wheels, and the average fuel consumption per 100 km was 17 liters.
But because of the ensuing passion for large limousines and the resulting losses, the company is on the verge of collapse. This is the only time in the history of BMW when the economic situation and the cars thrown on the market were not in demand.
Models belonging to the 5th series did not improve the position of BMW in the 50s. On the contrary, debts began to grow rapidly, sales decreased. To correct this situation, the bank that provided assistance to BMW and was one of the largest shareholders of Daimler-Benz offered to set up production of small and not very small ones at the plants in Munich. expensive car"Mercedes Benz". Thus, the existence of BMW as an independent company that produces original cars With own name and trademark. This proposal was actively opposed by BMW's small shareholders and dealerships throughout Germany. By common efforts, a certain amount of money was collected, which was required for the development and launch of a new middle-class BMW model, which was supposed to significantly improve the position of the company in the 60s.
By restructuring the capital structure, BMW manages to continue its activities. The third time the firm starts all over again. The middle class car was supposed to be a family car for "average" (and not only) Germans. as the most suitable option a small four-door sedan, a 1.5-liter engine and independent front and rear suspensions were considered, which at that time were not present in all cars.
It was almost impossible to put the car into production by 1961 and then present it at the Frankfurt Motor Show: there was simply not enough time. Therefore, under pressure from the sales department, several prototypes were urgently prepared for the exhibition, designed to attract future customers. The bet was made and in many respects justified itself. During the exhibition and over the next few weeks, about 20,000 orders for the BMW-1500 were made! Try to imagine the situation in which the company found itself, releasing only 2000 cars in 1962! In general, the production of the model "1500" for the entire time of its existence on the assembly line amounted to 23,000 copies. This was the beginning of the rise to the top of the automotive industry.
At the height of the production of the 1500 model, small engineering firms began to refine the car and increase engine power, which, of course, could not please the BMW management. The response was the release of the model "1800" with a 1.8-liter engine. Moreover, a little later, a version of the "1800 TI" appeared, corresponding to cars of the "Gran Turismo" class and accelerating to 186 km / h. Outwardly, it did not differ much from the basic version, but, nevertheless, it became a worthy addition to the already replenished family.
"BMW 1800 TI", although it was released in the amount of only 200 copies, still became an extremely popular model. By 1966, on the basis of the car, the designers created a worthy follower - the BMW-2000, which today is perceived as the ancestor of the 3rd series, which has been released to date in several generations. At the same time, a coupe with a 2-liter engine and 100-120 “horses” hidden under the hood was a subject of particular pride for BMW.
In fact, the "BMW-2000" in the basic and other versions is one of the most successful models throughout the history of BMW. It takes a long time to count the number of variants of bodies and power units that appeared at that time of various capacities and with various maximum speeds. Together they formed a series that received the designation "02". Its representatives could satisfy the needs of almost all motorists, who were offered a choice from the simplest and most modest coupes to "fancy" high-speed convertibles with alloy wheels, "automatic" boxes and 170 "horse" motors.
The world's first mass-produced car with a turbo engine: the BMW 2002 turbo.
The last 30 years has been 30 years of victories for BMW. New factories are being opened, the world's first serial turbo model "2002-turbo" is being produced, an anti-lock braking system is being created, which now all leading automakers equip their cars with. The first electronic engine control is being developed. Almost all the models of the 60s that brought the automaker so much popularity were equipped with four-cylinder engines. However, BMW management still remembered the powerful and reliable units, which they intended to revive by 1968 simultaneously with the release of a new model, the BMW-2500. The single-row "six-cylinder" used in it, which was constantly being upgraded, was produced over the next 14 years and managed to become the basis for the same reliable and more powerful 2.8-liter engine. Along with the latest four-door sedan moved into a range of sports cars, because. only a few production cars in standard equipment could exceed the speed mark of 200 km / h.
BMW headquarters near the Olympic Center in Munich.
The headquarters building of the concern is being built in Munich, and the first control and testing ground is opened in Aschheim. A research center was built to design new models. In the 1970s, the first cars of famous BMW series- 3rd series, 5th series, 6th series, 7th series models.
After the production of the 2500 model and its main successors, the next significant event for BMW was the appearance of the 6 series, the first representative of which in 1978 was the luxurious 635 Csi coupe. Its 3.5-liter engine has become a new symbol technical excellence and even began to be installed on machines of the 5th series. The "Five", equipped with such an engine (power 218 hp), received the designation "M", confirming the exclusivity and sportiness of the car. Moreover, this motor really showed itself on the 5th series of the second generation, on the so-called. transitional models that saw the light in 1983.
In the year of German reunification, the concern, having founded BMW Rolls-Royce GmbH, returned to its roots in the field of aircraft engine building, and in 1991 introduced the new BR-700 aircraft engine. In the early 1990s, the third-generation 3 Series compact sports cars and the 8 Series Coupé hit the market.
1989: New BMW 850i coupe.
A good step for the company was the purchase in 1994 for DM 2.3 billion of the industrial group Rover Group (“Rover Group”), and with it the UK's largest car production complex brands Rover, Land Rover and MG. With the purchase of this company, the list of BMW cars was replenished with the missing midget cars and SUVs. In 1998, the British company Rolls-Royce was acquired.
Since 1995, an airbag has been included as standard on all BMW vehicles for front passenger and system anti-theft lock engine. In March of the same year, the station wagon (touring) of the 3rd series is launched into production.
BMW factory
Among the latest motorcycle models of the 90s, the R100RT Classic touring motorcycle, equipped with luggage cases and heated handlebars, should be highlighted. Another model from this family, R100GS PD, is also intended for tourists. These motorcycles won four victories in the international rally Paris - Dakar. The F650, released in 1993, became a popular model. In addition, it turned out to be quite competitive compared to its Japanese counterparts. In 1993, BMW begins development of the new R1100RS "opposers". (for this motorcycle, for the first time, not only the height of the steering wheel and footrests, but also the saddle was regulated), R1100GS (one of the most powerful motorcycles in the world). In 1994, identical R850R and R1100RT models were released. BMW's most popular 4-cylinder motorcycle is the K1100RS -tourist motorcycle with a sports fairing. But the most representative and equipped motorcycle is the K1100LT model, equipped with a huge electric fairing, adjustable windshield, large luggage cases and anti-lock braking system.
Since 1995, the BMW plant in Spartanburg (USA) has been producing the BMW Z3.
In general, the end of the nineties was incredibly productive for BMW. New "fives", "sevens", the undeniable success of the Z3, all this did not make it possible even for a short break.
All these machines and motors have one thing in common: they prove that serial engines BMWs are built so solidly, so designed for their power and so balanced already in their basic concept that they can withstand any load on any track in the world.
The beginning of 1999 marked the debut of the BMW X5, which became the world's first Sports Activity Vehicle: a vehicle that uniquely combines elegance and practicality, thus opening up a new dimension of mobility.
And one more first place: The BMW Z8, the great sports car, celebrated its premiere in 1999 and delighted James Bond fans in The World Is Not Enough.
In 1999, BMW also gave a surprise to automotive enthusiasts at frankfurt motor show, providing a futuristic Z9 gran turismo concept.
BMW, which began as a small aircraft engine plant, currently manufactures its products at five factories in Germany and twenty-two subsidiaries scattered around the world. This is one of the few automobile firms, which does not use robots in factories. All assembly on the conveyor goes only manually. Output - only computer diagnostics basic parameters of the car.
Over the past 30 years, only the concerns of BMW and Toyota have been able to operate with annually increasing profits. The BMW empire, which has been on the verge of collapse three times in its history, has risen and succeeded each time. For everyone in the world, the BMW concern is synonymous with high standards in the field of automotive comfort, safety, technology and quality.
sources
http://www.bmw-mania.ru
http://www.bmwgtn.ru
http://bikepost.ru
We have already studied a large number of stories of car brands, you can find them by the tag "AUTO", and I will remind you from the last one: and The original article is on the website InfoGlaz.rf Link to the article from which this copy is made -BMW - how much is contained in these three letters. There is not a single person in the world who does not know that this is one of the best German car companies. Cars of this brand excite the minds of teenagers, adult men and even women. It all started back in 1913, when two young people created two firms for the production of engines for aircraft. Soon they will merge into one enterprise, which is proudly called the "Bavarian Motor Works". Since that time, BMW cars are called Bavarian, and some official dealers receive the prefix "Bavaria" in the title. The official year of foundation of the company is 1917. In five years, the company will be almost 100 years old. A whole century of unique and diverse cars, various innovations and a mass of fans around the world. Here is the main achievement of BMW. After the end of the First World War, the company is on the verge of bankruptcy and decides to focus on the production of motorcycles and engines for them. Note that BMW still produces the most modern two-wheeled vehicles that are sold in countries such as North Ossetia, Belarus, Ukraine, Moldova, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Finland, South Ossetia, Abkhazia , Armenia, Turkey, Azerbaijan, Georgia, USA, Canada, Mexico, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Brazil, Europe (European Union (EU)), Bulgaria, UK, Spain, Germany, Greece, Italy, Poland, France, Croatia, Czech Republic, Montenegro , Austria, Switzerland, Australia, Israel, India, Thailand, Singapore, Vietnam, Malaysia, Philippines, Iran, China, Japan, Tunisia, Egypt, Libya.
The German company develops a variety of motorcycle engines and motorcycles themselves, while thinking about the production of cars. In 1928, BMW buys a license to manufacture its first car. He gets the name Dixi. The novelty immediately begins to conquer Europe, and the Bavarians are slowly increasing their popularity around the world. In those years, BMW distinguished the sporty character of their creations. As you can see, these features can be traced in the company's cars so far.
In the 30s of the last century, the first BMW 328 was produced, which will become one of the most successful in history. The main difference between "treshki" in its aggressive nature. The 3-series car wins a number of awards and honorary titles, which only underlines the correctness of the chosen BMW line.
After the Second World War and the collapse of Germany, the company begins to experience not the most rosy times. BMW again decides to focus on the production of aircraft engines. However, the Germans are still thirsty for innovation and create a mixture of motorcycle and car. The three-wheeled “miracle” (and there is no other way to call it) is gaining success in the homeland, but just a few months later, people begin to be interested in other cars and BMW is approaching the verge of bankruptcy. There is a question about the sale of the company, and main competitor Mercedes is even trying to buy out the Bavarian company. BMW carry out a capital restructuring and begins to continue its production. In fact, this is the beginning of the formation of a company that has won the hearts of motorists around the world. It should be noted that today this allows Bavarians to successfully sell their cars for such world currencies as the Russian ruble, US dollar, Australian dollar, Belarusian ruble, British pound, Kazakhstani tenge, Canadian dollar, Chinese yuan, Ukrainian hryvnia, New Zealand dollar , Swiss frank.
Naturally, many banks in the world are happy to cooperate with the reputable German brand. Among them we can highlight the banks of Belarus, Banks of Russia (VTB Bank, Sberbank, Alfa Bank), Banks of Europe, Banks of Ukraine, Banks of the USA, Banks of Switzerland.
The German concern is gradually opening new factories around the world, producing the first car with a turbocharged engine, and also creating an anti-lock braking system. brake system known as ABS. All of the above achievements by leaps and bounds bring BMW closer to the world automotive leaders. In the 70s of the last century, the still popular models of the 3rd, 5th, 7th and 6th series were created, without which it is impossible to imagine the German brand today.
Meanwhile, other automakers do not stand still: VAZ, UAZ, Renault, Audi, Toyota, Kia, BMW, Nissan, Ford, Chevrolet, Volkswagen, Mercedes.
BMW cars are increasingly mentioned in various media in Russia and the CIS, foreign media, among which are: The Guardian, The Financial Times, The New York Times, Forbes.
The company does not forget about the production of motorcycles, which are also gradually gaining their popularity, as well as Yachts, Cars, Phones, Dogs, Diamonds, Online Games, real estate.
In 1994, BMW buys the British industrial group Rover, which owns the Rover, Land Rover and MG brands. This acquisition allows the company to increase its share of the SUV market and compact cars. Four years later, the Germans get the British premium brand Rolls Royce.
The number of cars produced is constantly growing. Today, BMW is a very prestigious brand, so employees of embassies, consulates, travel and insurance companies often travel in cars of a German company. In addition, cars attract the attention of such personalities from the world of show business as Alla Pugacheva, Anastasia Volochkova, Ani Lorak, Kristina Orbakaite, Ksenia Sobchak, Philip Kirkorov, Nikolai Baskov.
