11/02/2025
Ten unknown fact about
Here are ten lesser-known facts about BMW:
1. **BMW's logo isn't based on a propeller**: Contrary to popular belief, the BMW logo's blue and white colors represent the Bavarian state colors, not a spinning airplane propeller.
2. **BMW built its first car under a license**: BMW’s first car, the 1928 Dixi, was a licensed version of the Austin 7, a British car model.
3. **The BMW M1 was the brand’s only mid-engine supercar**: Introduced in 1978, the BMW M1 is the only mid-engine sports car the company has ever mass-produced.
4. **They manufactured jet engines**: BMW was heavily involved in the production of jet engines during World War II, a legacy that they moved away from after the war.
5. **First turbocharged production car**: BMW introduced the world’s first turbocharged production car with the BMW 2002 Turbo in 1973.
6. **BMW is a leader in hydrogen technology**: BMW has invested in hydrogen fuel cell technology and even produced a hydrogen-powered car, the BMW Hydrogen 7, in 2006.
7. **Motorcycle racing pedigree**: BMW’s motorcycle division is as prestigious as its car division. In fact, they set world speed records and won several championships in the early 20th century.
8. **The grille has evolved, but never disappeared**: BMW's kidney grille is one of the longest-running design elements in automotive history, having first appeared on the 1933 BMW 303.
9. **BMW's factory in Munich survived WWII bombings**: Despite severe damage during WWII, BMW's Munich plant was rebuilt, and it still produces cars today.
10. **BMW once built economy cars**: After WWII, BMW was financially unstable and focused on producing small, fuel-efficient cars, like the Isetta, a bubble car that helped the company survive through the tough post-war years
