What Does BMW Stand For? The Surprising Origins of the Name

BMW stands for Bayerische Motoren Werke, which translates to Bavarian Motor Works in English. While today the name is synonymous with high-performance cars and luxury engineering, its origins are tied to aircraft engines and the legacy of early 20th-century Germany.

From Aircraft to Automobiles

BMW was founded in 1916 during World War I, originally as a company called Rapp Motorenwerke, which specialized in aircraft engines. After a reorganization in 1917, the company was renamed Bayerische Motoren Werke to reflect its Bavarian roots — both geographically and culturally. The focus remained on aviation until the Treaty of Versailles, which restricted Germany’s ability to produce military aircraft after the war.

With aircraft manufacturing limited, BMW pivoted. The company briefly built motorcycle engines, then motorcycles, and finally its first car in 1928 — the BMW 3/15, a compact vehicle based on a licensed design from the British Austin Seven.

Why the Name Stuck

Even after shifting focus to road vehicles, BMW kept its name — a nod to its engineering roots and its commitment to precision manufacturing. "Motoren Werke" means “engine works,” which feels fitting considering BMW’s reputation for powertrains and driving dynamics.

You can still experience that legacy firsthand at BMW’s headquarters in Munich, part of Motorsport Lab’s Germany Supercar Tour.

Today, the name isn't just an acronym — it’s a global brand loaded with identity. And while most people associate BMW with sedans and sport coupes, the company's story started with propellers and altitude.

One Last Myth: It’s Not About the Propeller

You may have heard that the BMW logo represents a spinning propeller — a fitting origin story, given the brand’s early aviation ties. But that's actually a myth. The blue and white colors are based on the flag of Bavaria, not the sky.