BMW - the Bavarian Motor Works - was created in Germany 1913 and commenced production of automobiles in 1928. Like many modern manufacturers the company began with engine production, supplying motorcycles and airplane engines during World War 2.
A three year ban on production after the war did not prevent BMW becoming a successful motorcycle manufacturer during the 1950s, but by the end of the decade the company faced serious financial crisis. A merger was narrowly avoided and the company saw a complete turnaround as in 1971 it became successful enough to move to its current headquarters, a building designed to resemble engine cylinders.
By this time BMW had established itself as a leading car manufacturer, thanks in part to its success in motor racing. Over the years the company has had victories in almost every major racing category and in 2005 the purchase of the Sauber Formula One team ensured the continuation of this association.
BMW have been pioneers of many design features in the industry and have built a reputation as being particularly innovative in this field. Features such as the ‘Hofmeister kink’ (an unusually shaped line by the rear window) and the famous kidney grill now appear as standard, while other BMW designs have greatly influenced the look of the modern car.
Since 1994 BMW have owned the Mini brand, successfully seeing it through a revival. Rolls Royce is also in the company’s control, with the Phantom model proving extremely popular since its 2003 creation. Despite the fact that many people regard BMW cars as elitist; the brand boasts one of the largest communities of automobile enthusiasts. ‘Bimmerfest’ has been held annually in the USA since 1996 and in 2006 was attended by 3000 people.
EuroNCAP Safety Ratings for BMW cars
The European New Car Assessment Programme produces reports on the safety of vehicles based on the results of several crash tests. As well as measuring how the car will hold up in a crash the risk to a pedestrian struck by the car is assessed. The star ratings (maximum 5) of key BMW models are shown below.
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