BMW or Bayerische Motoren Werke AG first became a public company in 1922 but its origins can be traced back to 1913. It began producing motorcycles in 1923 and car in 1929 and has continued at the forefront of both these markets right up to the present day. The famous BMW roundel badge is believed to be derived from the logo of its predecessor company Rapp Motorenwerke with the colours and checks of the Bavarian flag thrown in.

BMW has become a by-word for advanced engine technology and sharp, sporty driving dynamics. In every market sector where its products compete, BMW is at or near the top of the class in terms of driver enjoyment. A stream of major international engine awards has flowed into Munich over the years and petrol or diesel, BMW's powerplants are amongst the finest you?ll find anywhere.

More recently, BMW has pioneered environmental technologies with its EfficentDynamics package. This amalgamation of different technologies has shown other manufacturers the way to cut fuel consumption and vehicle emissions without relying on the development of complex hybrid or fuel-cell powertrains.