The BMW story
BMW started in Munich in 1916 as a maker of aircraft engines. After the First World War it turned to motorcycle engines, launched its first motorcycle in 1923 and built its first car in 1928. The blue-and-white roundel reflects the colours of Bavaria. After the Second World War, models such as the Isetta, the 1500 and later the 3 Series rebuilt the brand.
What makes BMW powerful
BMW's power comes from its promise of driving pleasure, "Sheer Driving Pleasure" in Europe and "The Ultimate Driving Machine" in the United States. Its saloons and SUVs, its M performance division and its kidney grille give it a clear identity. BMW also owns MINI and Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, giving the group reach from city cars to the top of the luxury market.
BMW today
BMW AG is listed in Frankfurt, with the Quandt family as its largest shareholder, which has given the company stable ownership. Milan Nedeljković became chairman of the board of management in May 2026. BMW has taken a flexible approach to drive technology, offering petrol, diesel, hybrid and electric versions, and has launched its Neue Klasse electric platform.
What comes next for BMW
BMW's main task is the move to electric cars without losing the driving character that customers expect. The Neue Klasse is its biggest bet on that future.
Why BMW ranks #12
BMW ranks #29 in WCRC's World's Most Powerful 100 Brands 2026 with a Power Score of 77.78.
Europe's ranking carries the same score, which places BMW at #12 among brands of core European origin.
Pillar profile
BMW was assessed on all five pillars and 50 parameters in the World's Most Powerful 100 Brands 2026. See its full global profile.
Versus its nearest rivals
13 Automotive & Mobility brands are in the Europe 100. BMW is #2 in its sector.
Questions people ask
What rank is BMW in WCRC's Europe's Most Powerful 100 Brands 2026?
BMW ranks #12 of 100 in Europe's Most Powerful 100 Brands 2026, with a WCRC Power Score of 77.78 out of 100. It also ranks #29 in WCRC's World's Most Powerful 100 Brands 2026.
When was BMW founded and who founded it?
BMW was founded in 1916. Founder(s): Karl Rapp, Gustav Otto and Franz Josef Popp.
Who leads BMW today?
Milan Nedeljković, Chairman of the Board of Management (since 14 May 2026). The brand is owned by Bayerische Motoren Werke AG.
Where is BMW headquartered?
BMW is based in Munich, Germany. Its country of origin is Germany.
What is BMW's revenue?
€133.5bn BMW Group revenues (FY2025, -6.3%), according to the company's published results.
What is a signature fact about BMW?
BMW began as an aircraft engine maker before building its first motorcycle in 1923 and its first car in 1928.
Key facts
| Brand | BMW |
|---|---|
| Company / owner | Bayerische Motoren Werke AG |
| Headquarters | Munich, Germany |
| Founded | 1916 |
| Founder(s) | Karl Rapp, Gustav Otto and Franz Josef Popp |
| Leadership | Milan Nedeljković, Chairman of the Board of Management (since 14 May 2026) |
| Latest revenue | €133.5bn BMW Group revenues (FY2025, -6.3%) Source |
| Sector | Automotive & Mobility |
| Country of origin | Germany |
| Signature fact | BMW began as an aircraft engine maker before building its first motorcycle in 1923 and its first car in 1928. |
| Official website | bmw.com |
BMW is ranked #12 in WCRC's Europe's Most Powerful 100 Brands 2026 (Power Score 77.78).