BMW passenger car

BMW, which stands for Bayerische Motoren Werke, is a prestigious German automotive brand founded in 1916. Originally a manufacturer of aircraft engines, the company transitioned to motorcycles and eventually passenger vehicles, becoming a global leader in the premium car segment. The brand is deeply rooted in Munich, Bavaria, where its world headquarters and research centers are located.

While BMW is an iconic German brand, its manufacturing footprint is global. Significant production facilities exist in Germany (such as plants in Munich, Dingolfing, and Regensburg), but the company also operates major manufacturing hubs in the United States (Spartanburg), China, South Africa, and Mexico to serve international markets. As of 2026 and beyond, the brand remains under the ultimate ownership of BMW AG, a publicly traded company with significant shareholdings by the Quandt family.