BMW is one of the world’s most recognized luxury car brands. But many people still ask, who owns BMW, and what companies fall under its umbrella? This article explores the ownership, structure, and influence behind the German automaker.
History of BMW
BMW, short for Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, was founded in 1916 in Munich, Germany. Initially, it produced aircraft engines during World War I. After the war, the company shifted its focus to motorcycles and later automobiles in 1928. BMW gained recognition for its performance vehicles, iconic design, and engineering excellence. Over the decades, it evolved from a regional manufacturer into a global automotive powerhouse.
Who Owns BMW: Largest Shareholders
BMW is a publicly traded company. However, a large portion of its shares is held by the Quandt family. The Quandts have been closely tied to BMW since the 1950s and are its most influential shareholders. The rest of the company is owned by institutional investors and the general public through stock markets.
Here’s a breakdown of the major shareholders of BMW:
| Shareholder | Percentage Ownership | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Stefan Quandt | 23.6% | Deputy chairman of BMW’s supervisory board, part of the Quandt family that has a long history with the company. |
| Susanne Klatten | 19.1% | Sister of Stefan Quandt, a key family member influencing BMW’s strategic decisions. She also holds significant investments outside BMW. |
| BlackRock | 4.5% | One of the world’s largest investment management firms, with a significant influence on corporate governance and shareholder value. |
| Vanguard Group | 3.9% | A major investment firm known for its passive index funds, holding a large stake in BMW through its various investment products. |
| Deutsche Bank | 2.4% | A leading German financial institution, maintaining a strategic relationship with BMW, particularly in finance and investment. |
| Allianz | 2.2% | A global insurance giant based in Germany, Allianz holds a notable stake in BMW, focusing on long-term returns and stability. |
| Other Asset Managers & Pension Funds | 45% | A collective of various large asset management firms and pension funds from Europe and North America, contributing significantly to BMW’s shareholding. |
| BMW Foundation Herbert Quandt | 2.9% | A philanthropic organization founded by the Quandt family, it supports social and environmental initiatives while holding shares in the company. |
| Employee Shareholders | <1% | Employees hold small portions of shares through stock ownership programs, fostering a sense of ownership and participation in the company. |
Stefan Quandt – 23.6%
Stefan Quandt is one of the most significant shareholders of BMW. He is the son of industrialist Herbert Quandt, who played a key role in saving the company from financial difficulties in the 1950s. As of recent reports, Stefan holds 23.6% of BMW’s shares.
In addition to his role as a shareholder, Stefan Quandt is also the deputy chairman of BMW’s supervisory board. His involvement allows him to maintain a strong influence over the company’s strategic direction, and his family’s legacy within BMW continues to be prominent.
Susanne Klatten – 19.1%
Susanne Klatten is Stefan Quandt’s sister and another key figure in BMW’s ownership. She holds 19.1% of the company’s shares. Like her brother, Susanne Klatten is an influential figure in both the company and beyond, as she has diverse investments across multiple industries.
Her family’s shareholding ensures that the Quandts remain the controlling force within BMW, with the combined shares of Stefan and Susanne accounting for a significant portion of voting rights. In addition to her role at BMW, she holds significant positions in other companies like Altana, a major pharmaceutical and chemical group.
BlackRock – 4.5%
BlackRock is one of the largest investment management firms in the world and holds a significant number of BMW shares. As an institutional investor, BlackRock’s holdings give it considerable influence over corporate governance decisions, particularly in terms of financial performance and shareholder value. BlackRock advocates for shareholder rights and is active in voting on key corporate resolutions.
Vanguard Group – 3.9%
Vanguard is another major institutional investor in BMW. Known for its index funds and passive investing strategies, Vanguard holds a large stake in BMW, which is typical for many of its funds that invest in blue-chip, stable companies. Vanguard’s influence on BMW comes from its substantial shareholding and voting power, although it tends to adopt a less active approach to management.
Deutsche Bank – 2.4%
Deutsche Bank, based in Germany, is one of the leading financial institutions and also holds a notable stake in BMW. As a German institution, its relationship with BMW is particularly important, and it often plays a role in discussions on corporate strategy, particularly in the areas of finance and investment.
Allianz – 2.2%
Allianz, another German financial giant, is a key institutional investor in BMW. As a major global insurance company, Allianz’s holdings are part of its investment portfolio. With its large stake, Allianz has a direct influence on BMW’s performance from an investment perspective, often focusing on long-term returns and stability.
Other Asset Managers and Pension Funds – 45%
Numerous other asset management firms and pension funds from across Europe and North America also hold significant shares in BMW. These funds generally invest in large, stable companies like BMW to provide consistent returns for their beneficiaries. Although these investors may not engage deeply with daily operations, they exert considerable influence during annual shareholder meetings and corporate governance decisions.
Private and Retail Shareholders – A Small Percentage
A small percentage of BMW’s shares are held by private and retail investors. These individuals typically buy shares on the stock exchange, and although they do not have significant control over the company’s decisions, they contribute to the overall market value of the shares. Retail shareholders are generally more interested in the financial performance of the company, often benefiting from dividends or stock appreciation.
BMW Foundation Herbert Quandt – 2.9%
The BMW Foundation Herbert Quandt is a philanthropic organization established by the Quandt family. While not a shareholder in the traditional sense, it plays a unique role in supporting BMW’s legacy. The foundation holds approximately 2.9% of the company’s shares, which it uses to fund various social and environmental initiatives. The foundation aims to promote social responsibility and sustainability, which aligns with BMW’s broader goals of sustainability in the automotive industry.
Employee Shareholders – Less Than 1%
A portion of BMW’s shares are also owned by employees through various employee stock ownership programs (ESOPs). While the shares held by employees make up less than 1% of the total, this is still a significant part of BMW’s shareholder structure, as it fosters a culture of ownership and participation among the workforce. Employee shareholders may have limited voting rights but often benefit from dividends and stock price appreciation.
Who Controls BMW?
BMW is a publicly traded company, and while it is owned by a mixture of institutional investors, family members, and the public, control is primarily exercised through the company’s governance structure, which includes a Supervisory Board and a Board of Management. The Quandt family retains substantial influence due to their significant shareholding, but day-to-day control is delegated to the executive leadership team.
The Quandt Family’s Influence
The Quandt family, particularly Stefan Quandt and Susanne Klatten, maintains considerable control over BMW despite not being directly involved in the daily management of the company. Combined, their shares account for 42.7% of BMW’s total equity, which gives them effective control over corporate decisions. The Quandts’ substantial voting rights provide them with significant leverage in the Supervisory Board, which oversees the Board of Management. They are influential in shaping the company’s long-term strategies, especially in areas like sustainability and innovation.
Supervisory Board
The Supervisory Board is responsible for overseeing the management of the company and approving major corporate decisions. The board has 20 members, including key figures from the Quandt family and other industry experts. The supervisory board’s duties include approving large investments, electing the members of the Board of Management, and ensuring that the company’s strategy aligns with shareholder interests.
Stefan Quandt, for instance, holds a strong position within this governance structure, with his family’s voting power ensuring that their voice is dominant in decision-making. The Supervisory Board also plays a significant role in approving the company’s overall direction, which often includes high-level decisions about production, innovation, and financial investments.
Board of Management
The Board of Management is the executive team that runs the company on a daily basis. This team is responsible for the operational management of BMW and includes positions like the CEO, CFO, and other executives overseeing departments such as production, sales, and R&D.
The Board of Management is selected by the Supervisory Board, which ensures that the individuals chosen align with the interests of the major shareholders. The CEO and other members of the executive team report directly to the Supervisory Board and implement its directives.
CEO of BMW: Oliver Zipse
Oliver Zipse has been the CEO of BMW since 2019. As the head of the company, Zipse is responsible for overseeing all aspects of BMW’s operations, including production, sales, marketing, and strategy. He was appointed after a successful career within BMW, where he had held various senior roles in manufacturing, production, and corporate strategy.
Zipse has led BMW through a period of significant transformation, focusing on expanding the company’s electric vehicle portfolio and advancing technological innovation, particularly in autonomous driving and connectivity. Under his leadership, BMW has also been working toward sustainable manufacturing and reducing its carbon footprint.
Before becoming CEO, Zipse was a member of BMW’s Board of Management, responsible for production and logistics. He has been instrumental in driving the company’s shift towards electric mobility and has overseen the development of the BMW i series and the investment in hydrogen technology. As CEO, Zipse maintains a strategic balance between preserving the brand’s luxury image while ensuring BMW remains at the forefront of the automotive industry’s technological evolution.
Zipse’s role also involves balancing the interests of BMW’s major shareholders, particularly the Quandt family, while addressing the needs of other investors, employees, and customers. Given his experience and background, Zipse has significant control over the daily operations and future direction of the company.
Decision-Making Process
While the CEO and the Board of Management make day-to-day decisions, major strategic moves require approval from the Supervisory Board, particularly when they involve large investments, changes in corporate direction, or key partnerships. The Quandt family holds a significant portion of the voting rights, allowing them to have considerable influence over these decisions, especially on major corporate issues.
The decision-making process at BMW is a collaboration between the Board of Management, which executes the business plan, and the Supervisory Board, which ensures that these actions align with the long-term interests of shareholders, particularly those with substantial stakes like the Quandts.
Annual Revenue and Net Worth of BMW
In 2024, BMW reported a revenue of €142.4 billion, marking an 8.4% decline from €155.5 billion in 2023. This decrease was primarily attributed to reduced demand in the Chinese market and challenges related to supplier issues, such as brake component problems with Continental.
The company’s net profit for 2024 fell by 36.9%, reaching €7.68 billion, down from €12.17 billion in the previous year. Earnings before tax (EBT) also saw a significant drop, decreasing by 35.8% to €10.97 billion from €17.1 billion in 2023.
As of April 2025, BMW’s estimated net worth stands at approximately $60 billion. This valuation reflects the company’s strong market position, diverse revenue streams, and strategic initiatives in electric mobility and global expansion. Despite the challenges faced in 2024, BMW’s robust brand equity and ongoing investments in innovation contribute to its substantial market value.
Below is an overview of BMW revenue and net worth from 2015-24:
| Year | Revenue (€ Billion) | Net Profit (€ Billion) | Estimated Net Worth (€ Billion) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 142.4 | 7.68 | 56.5 |
| 2023 | 155.5 | 12.17 | 58.4 |
| 2022 | 134.0 | 9.18 | 60.0 |
| 2021 | 111.2 | 5.98 | 58.7 |
| 2020 | 98.99 | 3.86 | 55.1 |
| 2019 | 104.2 | 5.02 | 54.3 |
| 2018 | 97.5 | 7.2 | 51.5 |
| 2017 | 98.7 | 8.7 | 53.0 |
| 2016 | 92.2 | 6.9 | 48.6 |
| 2015 | 92.2 | 6.9 | 47.0 |
Brands and Companies Owned by BMW
BMW owns and manages several major brands and subsidiaries. Each plays a strategic role in the company’s operations.
Below is a breakdown of the major companies and brands owned by BMW:
| Company/Brand | Category | Description |
|---|---|---|
| MINI | Automotive Brand | A British-origin premium compact car brand, fully revived by BMW since 1994. Known for urban agility and youthful appeal. |
| Rolls-Royce Motor Cars | Ultra-Luxury Automotive Brand | Acquired in 1998, Rolls-Royce represents the peak of automotive luxury and craftsmanship under BMW. |
| BMW Motorrad | Motorcycle Division | BMW’s division for high-end motorcycles and scooters. Renowned for adventure, touring, and sport bikes. |
| BMW i | Electric Vehicle Sub-Brand | Focuses on sustainable mobility, producing all-electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles like the i3, i4, and iX. |
| BMW Group Financial Services | Financial Services | Offers leasing, financing, insurance, and fleet services globally, supporting vehicle sales. |
| DriveNow (part of SHARE NOW) | Mobility Service | Car-sharing platform merged with Car2Go to form SHARE NOW, focused on flexible urban transport. |
| BMW ConnectedDrive | Digital Services | Integrated suite offering in-car connectivity, navigation, remote vehicle access, and driver-assistance features. |
| Alphabet | Fleet Management | Corporate mobility and fleet management arm offering customized leasing and electric fleet solutions. |
| BMW M | Performance Sub-Brand | High-performance version of BMW vehicles, including M3, M5, M8, and various M SUVs. |
| BMW iPerformance | Plug-in Hybrid Sub-Brand | Aimed at combining performance with reduced emissions; includes models like the 530e and 330e. |
| BMW Group Classic | Heritage Division | Preserves and restores classic BMW vehicles and motorcycles; manages the BMW Museum and archives. |
| BMW Designworks | Industrial Design Subsidiary | BMW’s global design consultancy working across multiple industries beyond automotive, including aviation and tech. |
| BMW Personal CoPilot | Driver Assistance/Autonomy | BMW’s technology platform for autonomous driving and safety features like lane assist and adaptive cruise. |
| Parkmobile | Smart Parking Service | Acquired for integration into BMW’s mobility services, allowing digital parking solutions in cities. |
| ReachNow (part of SHARE NOW) | Mobility Service | Merged into SHARE NOW; previously BMW’s standalone U.S.-based car-sharing service. |
| Bikes and E-Bikes by BMW | Urban Mobility Products | BMW’s sustainable transport options including e-bikes, scooters, and city bicycles under the Active and i brands. |
| BMW Group Plant Oxford | Manufacturing Facility | Major production site in the UK, mainly producing MINI vehicles for global markets. |
MINI
MINI, a British automobile marque, was acquired by BMW in 1994. The brand is known for its compact and stylish cars that combine modern design with efficient performance. MINI vehicles are marketed as urban cars with a unique blend of heritage and contemporary engineering. BMW revitalized the MINI brand, making it a key player in the premium compact car segment.
MINI’s most notable models include the MINI Hardtop, MINI Clubman, and MINI Countryman. The brand also expanded into electric mobility with the launch of the MINI Electric. The success of MINI is largely due to its distinctive design and appeal to a younger, environmentally conscious demographic.
Rolls-Royce
BMW acquired Rolls-Royce Motor Cars in 1998, and since then, the iconic British luxury automobile brand has been a key part of BMW’s portfolio. Rolls-Royce is synonymous with luxury, craftsmanship, and performance. The acquisition of Rolls-Royce allowed BMW to further cement its position in the luxury car market, focusing on ultra-high-end vehicles.
Under BMW’s ownership, Rolls-Royce expanded its lineup with models like the Rolls-Royce Phantom, Rolls-Royce Ghost, and Rolls-Royce Cullinan. These cars offer unmatched levels of opulence and performance, catering to an exclusive clientele. BMW’s engineering expertise has helped elevate Rolls-Royce’s performance while retaining its commitment to traditional craftsmanship.
BMW Motorrad
BMW Motorrad is BMW’s motorcycle division, known for producing premium motorcycles. The division was established in 1923 and has been a significant part of BMW’s diversification into the two-wheeled market. BMW Motorrad produces a range of motorcycles, from touring and sport bikes to adventure and naked bikes.
Notable models include the BMW R 1250 GS, BMW S 1000 RR, and BMW F 900 R. The brand has a strong reputation for performance, safety, and innovation, and it is a major player in the premium motorcycle market. BMW Motorrad has also expanded into electric motorcycles, including the BMW C Evolution electric scooter, aligning with the company’s commitment to sustainable transportation solutions.
BMW i
BMW i is the company’s sub-brand for electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles. Launched in 2011, it is a key component of BMW’s strategy to lead the way in sustainable mobility. The BMW i3 and BMW i8 were among the first vehicles to showcase BMW’s commitment to electric mobility. The i3 is a fully electric compact car, while the i8 is a plug-in hybrid sports car that combines innovative technology with high performance.
In addition to these models, the BMW iX3 and BMW i4 are part of the company’s ongoing push to offer a more extensive electric vehicle lineup. BMW’s i sub-brand is a significant part of its future strategy, aiming to achieve carbon neutrality and increase the proportion of fully electric vehicles in its portfolio.
BMW Group Financial Services
BMW Group Financial Services is the financial arm of BMW, offering a variety of services to both customers and dealers. These services include vehicle financing, leasing, insurance, and fleet management. Through BMW Financial Services, the company supports the purchase and lease of BMW, MINI, and Rolls-Royce vehicles, making luxury cars more accessible to a wider audience.
The division also provides mobility solutions and financial products for fleet management, and it plays a crucial role in supporting BMW’s sales and customer loyalty programs. BMW Group Financial Services operates globally, with a significant presence in markets like Europe, the United States, and China.
DriveNow (Now part of SHARE NOW)
DriveNow, a car-sharing service launched by BMW in 2011, was a part of the company’s efforts to tap into new mobility services. In 2018, BMW and Daimler merged their car-sharing services, including DriveNow and Car2Go, to form SHARE NOW, a major player in the car-sharing and mobility sector. SHARE NOW allows users to rent vehicles for short periods, providing a flexible alternative to traditional car ownership.
SHARE NOW operates in various cities worldwide, offering electric and conventional vehicles for users who prefer the convenience of on-demand mobility without the responsibilities of ownership. The service is a significant part of BMW’s broader strategy to be at the forefront of new urban mobility solutions.
BMW ConnectedDrive
BMW ConnectedDrive is the company’s suite of digital services and technologies that integrate connectivity, infotainment, and driver assistance features. The service is available in most BMW models and provides features such as real-time navigation, remote vehicle management, and advanced safety technologies.
BMW ConnectedDrive allows drivers to connect their smartphones to their vehicles and access a range of features such as remote control for vehicle functions, emergency assistance, and concierge services. It also integrates with a range of third-party apps and services, enhancing the overall driving experience.
Alphabet
Alphabet is a subsidiary of BMW Group focused on fleet management and mobility services. It offers solutions for companies to manage their vehicle fleets efficiently, including leasing, financing, and maintenance services. Alphabet serves a variety of industries, from small businesses to large corporations, providing customized fleet solutions that help companies optimize their mobility needs.
Alphabet is part of BMW’s broader strategy to provide comprehensive mobility solutions that go beyond vehicle ownership. The company has expanded its services to include electric vehicle fleets and car-sharing solutions, reflecting BMW’s commitment to sustainable transportation.
BMW M
BMW M (Motorsport) is the performance division of BMW, responsible for designing high-performance vehicles, including the famous BMW M3, BMW M5, and BMW X5 M. The M series is known for its superior performance, handling, and engineering precision, offering a sportier and more aggressive version of BMW’s standard models.
The M division was founded in 1972, and since then, it has become synonymous with the brand’s motorsport heritage and engineering excellence. The M models are targeted at driving enthusiasts and those looking for an elevated driving experience with improved performance and speed. The BMW M4 and BMW M8 continue this legacy, making M the go-to performance sub-brand for BMW.
BMW iPerformance
BMW iPerformance is a sub-brand focused on plug-in hybrid (PHEV) technology. It blends the performance and luxury of BMW vehicles with environmentally friendly hybrid technology. iPerformance models are designed to offer improved fuel efficiency and lower emissions, while still delivering the driving pleasure BMW is known for.
The iPerformance series includes models like the BMW 530e and BMW 330e, which feature both an internal combustion engine and an electric motor. These vehicles are part of BMW’s strategy to reduce emissions and offer hybrid alternatives to traditional gasoline-powered models, aligning with the company’s sustainability goals.
BMW Group Classic
BMW Group Classic is a subsidiary of BMW that preserves and maintains classic BMW models, as well as offering services for owners of vintage BMW cars and motorcycles. This division operates a museum and manages the restoration of historical vehicles, ensuring that BMW’s heritage is preserved for future generations.
BMW Group Classic also offers parts, services, and expert restoration for enthusiasts of classic BMW vehicles. It is a key part of the company’s strategy to connect past innovations with future technologies, and it helps BMW maintain its reputation as a brand steeped in history and tradition.
BMW Designworks
BMW Designworks is a global design consultancy that is part of the BMW Group. This division specializes in industrial design, branding, and product development for companies across a wide range of industries. Designworks has worked on a variety of projects beyond automobiles, including aircraft, consumer electronics, and furniture.
BMW Designworks plays an important role in shaping the design philosophy of the BMW brand, ensuring that aesthetics and user experience are at the forefront of vehicle development. It also provides external design services to companies that wish to tap into BMW’s expertise in innovation and high-end design.
BMW Personal CoPilot
BMW Personal CoPilot is BMW’s suite of driver assistance and autonomous driving technologies. It includes advanced systems like Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure Warning, and Automatic Parking, all designed to enhance the driving experience and improve safety.
BMW has been at the forefront of developing autonomous driving systems, and Personal CoPilot represents the company’s push to integrate cutting-edge technologies into its vehicles. It marks the next step in BMW’s vision of creating fully autonomous vehicles in the future, while offering enhanced safety and convenience for drivers today.
BMW Group Plant Oxford
While not a separate company or brand, BMW Group Plant Oxford is a significant part of BMW’s global manufacturing footprint. Located in the UK, this plant is the main production site for the MINI brand. It is where many of the MINI models are assembled, and it plays a crucial role in BMW’s operations.
The Oxford plant is known for its highly efficient production techniques, as well as its focus on sustainability. It produces a large number of MINI vehicles each year, contributing to the company’s overall sales and market presence in the compact car segment.
Parkmobile (Now part of BMW’s Mobility Services)
Parkmobile is a digital parking service acquired by BMW as part of its broader strategy to enter the mobility services market. The app allows users to find and pay for parking spaces in cities across the globe, streamlining urban mobility and enhancing convenience for drivers. Parkmobile is now integrated into BMW’s mobility services suite, alongside services like SHARE NOW and ReachNow.
Through Parkmobile, BMW enhances its portfolio of urban mobility solutions, promoting sustainable transport and offering alternatives to car ownership. The service supports BMW’s vision of making cities more connected and accessible, improving the overall driving and parking experience for urban dwellers.
ReachNow (Merged with SHARE NOW)
ReachNow, originally a car-sharing service, was developed by BMW to expand its mobility offerings. Similar to DriveNow, ReachNow was focused on providing customers with the flexibility to rent cars on demand. In 2018, ReachNow merged with Car2Go, ultimately becoming part of SHARE NOW, the car-sharing service jointly operated by BMW and Daimler.
The combination of ReachNow with Car2Go created one of the largest car-sharing networks in the world, offering a wide range of vehicles, including electric cars, in urban centers around the globe.
Bikes and E-Bikes by BMW
In addition to motorcycles under BMW Motorrad, BMW also offers a series of e-bikes and electric bicycles under the BMW Active and BMW i sub-brands. These e-bikes are designed to provide an alternative to traditional cars for short-distance travel, especially in urban environments. With models like the BMW Cruise e-bike and the BMW X2 City e-bike, the company is leveraging its expertise in engineering to create sustainable urban transportation solutions.
These e-bikes align with BMW’s strategy to promote sustainable mobility and reduce urban congestion, making them a key part of BMW’s broader portfolio of mobility services.
Conclusion
So, who owns BMW?
The answer lies in a mix of family control and public ownership.
The Quandt family remains the most powerful force, while institutional investors hold the majority of floating shares. With a strong brand portfolio and massive global reach, BMW is not just a carmaker—it’s a symbol of innovation and prestige.
FAQs
What is BMW short for?
BMW stands for Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, which means Bavarian Motor Works.
Is BMW still a German company?
Yes, BMW is headquartered in Munich, Germany. It remains a German corporation.
Who owns Rolls-Royce Motor Cars?
Rolls-Royce Motor Cars is fully owned by BMW Group. It should not be confused with Rolls-Royce Holdings, which makes airplane engines and is a separate company.
Are BMW shares publicly traded?
Yes, BMW shares trade on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange. Institutional and private investors can buy shares.
Do the Quandts run BMW?
They are not part of daily management but sit on the supervisory board. Their shareholding gives them major influence.
Did BMW buy Volkswagen?
No, BMW did not buy Volkswagen. BMW and Volkswagen are two separate, independently owned German automotive companies. Volkswagen Group owns brands such as Audi, Porsche, Bentley, Lamborghini, and others. BMW is owned by institutional and individual shareholders and operates independently.
What brand did BMW buy?
BMW has acquired several notable brands over the years. The most prominent acquisitions include MINI (in 1994) and Rolls-Royce Motor Cars (in 1998). Both brands are now fully integrated into the BMW Group and play key roles in its premium and ultra-luxury segments.
Who sold Rolls-Royce to BMW?
BMW acquired the rights to the Rolls-Royce brand from Rolls-Royce plc, the aerospace company, in 1998. At the time, Volkswagen had acquired Rolls-Royce Motors, which included the factory and the “Spirit of Ecstasy” mascot. However, BMW secured the rights to the Rolls-Royce name and logo directly from Rolls-Royce plc. The brand was officially transferred to BMW in 2003.
Who makes BMW now?
BMW vehicles are manufactured by Bayerische Motoren Werke AG (BMW Group). The company produces vehicles in multiple countries, including Germany, the United States, China, South Africa, and the United Kingdom. BMW is managed by a board of directors, led by CEO Oliver Zipse as of 2025.
Did BMW buy Bentley?
No, BMW did not buy Bentley. Volkswagen Group owns Bentley. During the late 1990s, both BMW and Volkswagen competed to acquire Rolls-Royce and Bentley. In the end, Volkswagen got Bentley, while BMW secured Rolls-Royce.
Is BMW owned by Volkswagen?
No, BMW is not owned by Volkswagen. BMW Group is an entirely separate company, listed on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange. Its ownership is shared among the Quandt family, institutional investors, and public shareholders.
Who owns Rolls-Royce?
Rolls-Royce Motor Cars is owned by BMW Group. The company acquired the rights to the Rolls-Royce name, logo, and brand in 1998. It began full production of Rolls-Royce vehicles under BMW ownership in 2003 at its plant in Goodwood, England.