What Does BMW Stand For?

For Chino Hills-area drivers, the name “BMW” is synonymous with exceptional performance and class-leading capability, but what does BMW stand for, exactly? These three letters are short for Bayerische Motoren Werke, which translates to Bavarian Motor Works in English. This German automaker has been impressing our neighbors for decades, and they don’t show any signs of stopping soon. Explore the name’s history below!

How Did BMW Get Its Name?

• The BMW company came into being more than 100 years ago, when Karl Rapp founded a company in 1913.
• Initially, they were focused on manufacturing aircraft engines in Munich, Germany.
• The name Bayerische Motoren Werke wouldn’t be adopted until 1917, when Rapp left the company.
• Bayerische, or Bavarian in English, indicates the region in Germany where the company is based.
• The Bavarian flag is a checkered flag in blue and white, so you can see where the BMW logo comes from!
• When BMW was incorporated, the full name of the company became Bayerische Motoren Werke Aktiengesellschaft, or BMW AG.

What is a Bimmer? What is a Beemer?

The meaning of colloquialisms like “Bimmer” and “Beemer” will vary depending on who you ask:

• For most drivers near Corona and Rancho Cucamonga, “Bimmer” refers to a BMW automobile. “Beemer,” on the other hand, refers to a BMW motorcycle.
• In Canada, and elsewhere, “Bimmer,” is used to reference both BMW automobiles and BMW motorcycles.

What is the BMW Slogan?

What does BMW mean? For many drivers, that question is best answered with reference to the BMW slogan. Today, that slogan is exactly the same as it was in 1974, when the “Ultimate Driving Machine” campaign was first introduced.

In 2010, the company briefly replaced this classic BMW slogan with the single word, “Joy.” However, the popularity of the old slogan was simply hard to beat; it would be restored just two years later, in 2012.

Experience the BMW Difference at BMW of Ontario

You’ve seen what BMW stands for, but what do those letters actually represent in practice? If you’re ready to experience the Ultimate Driving Machine® for yourself, then browse our virtual showroom and find a new BMW with everything you desire.

We’re ready to assist you at every stage of your ownership journey, from the moment you program your BMW key fob to the day when you trade up for a new model!