Bayerische Motoren Werke was founded in 1916 in Munich, the capital of Bavaria, but it was not until 1929 that the Dixi became the first vehicle to carry the famous BMW logo. The symbol is remarkably simple; silver lettering on a circular black band that encases four segments of solid blue and white - the colors of Bavaria. The image has its origins in World War I, when the Bavarian Luftwaffe flew planes painted in Bayern blue and white, affording the pilot a view through his propellor of blue and white segments. This inspired the stylized design we now recognize on vehicle logos, such as the one displayed beneath, and on other BMW products. It has been updated to project an identity that is smart, clean-cut, sporty - and image-conscious.

1930