BMW Group is a globally renowned premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles, headquartered in Munich, Germany. The company is committed to delivering innovative, sustainable, and high-quality mobility solutions, emphasizing technological advancement, environmental responsibility, and customer satisfaction.
Table of Contents
Company Profile
BMW Group operates across multiple business segments, including Automotive, Motorcycles, Financial Services, and Other Entities, with a strong focus on electrification, digitalization, and sustainability. The company’s strategic vision integrates cutting-edge technologies, such as artificial intelligence and hydrogen infrastructure, with a commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. BMW Group’s global presence spans production facilities, research hubs, and sales networks across Europe, Asia, the Americas, and beyond, ensuring a robust market position in the premium mobility sector.
The company’s governance structure includes a Board of Management, led by Chairman Oliver Zipse, and a Supervisory Board, chaired by Norbert Reithofer, ensuring strategic oversight and compliance with international standards. BMW Group’s sustainability efforts align with the EU Taxonomy (Regulation (EU) 2019/2088) and the European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS), earning accolades such as a Leadership Scoring (A-) for CDP Water Security and a strong position in the MSCI Implied Temperature Rise index. The company’s workforce, exceeding 150,000 employees globally, is supported by extensive training programs, with €415 million invested in employee development in 2024. BMW Group’s commitment to diversity, compliance, and social responsibility underpins its operations, making it a leader in responsible corporate practices.
Business Segments
BMW Group operates in four primary business segments: Automotive, Motorcycles, Financial Services, and Other Entities. Each segment contributes uniquely to the company’s revenue and strategic objectives, with a focus on premium products and services.
1. Automotive Segment
- Description: The Automotive segment is the core of BMW Group’s operations, focusing on the development, production, and sale of premium cars under the BMW, MINI, and Rolls-Royce brands. This segment emphasizes electrification, with a growing portfolio of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and plug-in hybrids, alongside traditional internal combustion engine vehicles. The segment integrates advanced technologies, such as autonomous driving systems and connected vehicle ecosystems, to enhance customer experiences.
- Key Highlights: In 2024, the Automotive segment delivered 2,442 vehicles globally, a slight increase from 2,538 in 2023. The segment’s revenues reached €108,639 million in 2024, down from €155,498 million in 2023, reflecting market challenges. The segment achieved a Return on Capital Employed (RoCE) of 15.1% in 2024, down from 17.2% in 2023, indicating stable but slightly reduced profitability. Investments in research and development, particularly for electric and hydrogen-powered vehicles, remain a priority.
- Revenue Contribution: Approximately 76.3% of total Group revenues (€142,380 million in 2024).
2. Motorcycles Segment
- Description: The Motorcycles segment, operated under the BMW Motorrad brand, designs and manufactures premium motorcycles for both urban mobility and long-distance touring. BMW Motorrad emphasizes sustainability, with certified processes to minimize environmental impact.
- Key Highlights: In 2024, BMW Motorrad delivered 98,775 units, up from 93,320 in 2023. Revenues for the segment were €2,917 million in 2024, compared to €4,232 million in 2023. Motorcycles represent a small but growing share of BMW Group’s portfolio, with a focus on electric models to align with sustainability goals.
- Revenue Contribution: Approximately 2.0% of total Group revenues.
3. Financial Services Segment
- Description: The Financial Services segment provides financing, leasing, and insurance solutions to support vehicle sales. It operates globally, offering tailored financial products to customers and dealers, enhancing accessibility to BMW Group’s vehicles.
- Key Highlights: In 2024, the segment managed 1,600 units (in thousands) of contracts, with revenues of €31,034 million, down 12.9% from €35,615 million in 2023. The segment faces competition from local banks but maintains a strong market position due to its integration with BMW Group’s sales strategy. The Return on Equity (RoE) for this segment was 15.1% in 2024.
- Revenue Contribution: Approximately 21.8% of total Group revenues.
4. Other Entities
- Description: This segment includes holding companies and other non-core activities, such as investments in subsidiaries and joint ventures. It supports the Group’s strategic initiatives and innovation hubs, such as BMW TechWorks in Romania and India.
- Key Highlights: This segment contributes minimally to revenue but plays a critical role in strategic investments and corporate governance. Specific financial data for 2024 is not separately disclosed but is included in the Group’s consolidated figures.
- Revenue Contribution: Less than 0.1% of total Group revenues (estimated).
Revenue Breakup by Segment (2024):
| Segment | Revenue (€ million) | Percentage of Total Revenue |
|---|---|---|
| Automotive | 108,639 | 76.3% |
| Financial Services | 31,034 | 21.8% |
| Motorcycles | 2,917 | 2.0% |
| Other Entities | ~90 | ~0.1% |
| Total | 142,380 | 100% |
Products and Services
BMW Group offers a diverse portfolio of products and services across its business segments, focusing on premium mobility solutions.
1. Automobiles
- BMW Brand: Includes a wide range of vehicles, from compact models like the BMW 1 Series to luxury models like the BMW 7 Series, and electric vehicles like the BMW i4 and iX. In 2024, BMW delivered models such as the BMW 194 xDrive 40 touring and BMW X2 xDrive20d, with fuel consumption ranging from 132–139 g CO2/km.
- MINI Brand: Offers compact, stylish vehicles like the MINI Cooper SE and MINI Countryman E, emphasizing urban mobility and electrification.
- Rolls-Royce Brand: Produces ultra-luxury vehicles, such as the Rolls-Royce Cullinan Series II (fuel consumption: 16.8–16.0 l/100 km, CO2 emissions: 380–362 g/km) and the Phantom, celebrating its centenary in 2024.
- Revenue Contribution: The Automotive segment, encompassing all three brands, contributed €108,639 million (76.3% of total revenue).
2. Motorcycles
- BMW Motorrad: Offers premium motorcycles for various riding styles, including urban, touring, and adventure models. The segment focuses on sustainability, with certified production processes.
- Revenue Contribution: €2,917 million (2.0% of total revenue).
3. Financial Services
- Leasing and Financing: Provides tailored leasing and financing options for BMW, MINI, and Rolls-Royce vehicles, supporting customer accessibility.
- Insurance: Offers vehicle-related insurance products, integrated with sales contracts.
- Revenue Contribution: €31,034 million (21.8% of total revenue).
4. Technology and Innovation Services
- Connected Vehicle Ecosystems: Includes digital services like connected navigation and driver assistance systems.
- Research and Development: Investments in AI, hydrogen technology, and high-voltage storage systems, with €6,636 million spent in 2024 (32.3% increase from €2,146 million in 2023).
- Revenue Contribution: Not separately reported but included in Automotive segment revenues.
Revenue Breakup by Product/Service (2024):
| Product/Service | Revenue (€ million) | Percentage of Total Revenue |
|---|---|---|
| Automobiles | 108,639 | 76.3% |
| Financial Services | 31,034 | 21.8% |
| Motorcycles | 2,917 | 2.0% |
| Total | 142,380 | 100% |
Company History
BMW Group, founded in 1916 as Bayerische Flugzeugwerke AG (BFW), initially focused on aircraft engine production. In 1917, it was renamed Bayerische Motoren Werke AG (BMW), marking the beginning of its automotive legacy. The company produced its first motorcycle, the R 32, in 1923, establishing BMW Motorrad. In 1928, BMW entered the automobile market by acquiring Fahrzeugfabrik Eisenach, launching the BMW 3/15 PS (Dixi). The 1930s saw BMW develop iconic models like the BMW 328, a sports car that set the tone for the brand’s performance heritage.
Post-World War II, BMW faced financial challenges but recovered in the 1950s with models like the BMW 501 and 507. The 1960s marked a turning point with the “New Class” vehicles (e.g., BMW 1500), which solidified BMW’s reputation for engineering excellence. The 1970s introduced the 3, 5, and 7 Series, establishing BMW’s core model lineup. The acquisition of MINI in 1994 and Rolls-Royce in 1998 expanded BMW Group’s portfolio into compact and ultra-luxury segments.
The 21st century saw BMW Group pioneer electrification with the BMW i sub-brand, launching the i3 and i8 in 2013. The company has since accelerated its electric vehicle strategy, aiming for a significant proportion of all-electric deliveries by 2030. BMW Group’s commitment to sustainability includes achieving carbon neutrality in production and reducing lifecycle CO2 emissions, with a target of net-zero emissions by 2050. The company’s innovation hubs, such as BMW TechWorks, and investments in hydrogen technology reflect its forward-looking approach.
Brands
BMW Group operates three distinct automotive brands and one motorcycle brand, each catering to specific market segments.
1. BMW
- Description: The core brand, known for premium vehicles combining performance, luxury, and innovation. BMW’s portfolio includes sedans, SUVs, and electric models like the i4, iX, and i7.
- Key Highlights: In 2024, BMW delivered the majority of the Group’s 2,442 vehicles, with a focus on electrification. Models like the BMW 194 xDrive 40 touring and BMW X2 xDrive20d emphasize efficiency and performance.
- Revenue Contribution: Estimated at ~65% of Automotive segment revenues (~€70,615 million).
2. MINI
- Description: MINI offers compact, stylish vehicles targeting urban drivers, with models like the MINI Cooper SE and Countryman E. The brand emphasizes customization and electric mobility.
- Key Highlights: MINI’s electric models gained traction in 2024, contributing to the Group’s sustainability goals.
- Revenue Contribution: Estimated at ~25% of Automotive segment revenues (~€27,160 million).
3. Rolls-Royce
- Description: Rolls-Royce is the ultra-luxury brand, producing bespoke vehicles like the Phantom and Cullinan Series II. The brand celebrated its centenary in 2024.
- Key Highlights: Rolls-Royce maintains a niche but high-value market, with limited production volumes but significant per-unit revenue.
- Revenue Contribution: Estimated at ~10% of Automotive segment revenues (~€10,864 million).
4. BMW Motorrad
- Description: The motorcycle brand, offering premium models for urban and touring use, with a focus on sustainability.
- Key Highlights: Delivered 98,775 units in 2024, with revenues of €2,917 million.
- Revenue Contribution: 100% of the Motorcycles segment (~€2,917 million).
Revenue Breakup by Brand (2024):
| Brand | Revenue (€ million) | Percentage of Total Revenue |
|---|---|---|
| BMW | ~70,615 | ~49.6% |
| MINI | ~27,160 | ~19.1% |
| Rolls-Royce | ~10,864 | ~7.6% |
| BMW Motorrad | 2,917 | 2.0% |
| Total | 111,556 | 78.3% |
Note: Financial Services (€31,034 million) are excluded from brand-specific revenue as they support all automotive brands.
Geographical Presence
BMW Group maintains a robust global presence, with production facilities, sales networks, and innovation hubs across multiple regions. The company’s operations are strategically distributed to optimize market access and supply chain efficiency.
1. Europe
- Description: Europe is BMW Group’s largest market, with key production facilities in Germany (Munich, Dingolfing, Regensburg), the UK (Oxford for MINI, Goodwood for Rolls-Royce), and other countries like Austria and Hungary. The company’s headquarters in Munich serves as the global hub for R&D and corporate governance.
- Key Highlights: In 2024, Europe accounted for a significant portion of vehicle deliveries, with a focus on electric vehicles to meet stringent EU CO2 regulations. Revenues were impacted by a -2.1% point drop in market share in Q2 2024.
- Revenue Contribution: Approximately 50% of Automotive segment revenues (~€54,320 million).
2. Asia (Including China)
- Description: Asia, particularly China, is a critical growth market, with production facilities like Spotlight Automotive Ltd. in China. Sales networks span Seoul, Shanghai, and Tokyo, with innovation hubs in these cities.
- Key Highlights: China saw a -10.6% decline in deliveries in 2024, but the region remains vital, contributing significantly to global sales. Total Asian market growth was +1.4%.
- Revenue Contribution: Approximately 30% of Automotive segment revenues (~€32,592 million).
3. Americas
- Description: The Americas, led by the U.S., host production facilities like the Spartanburg plant in South Carolina. Sales networks cover North and South America, with a focus on premium and electric vehicles.
- Key Highlights: The Americas contributed to an 8.3% global market growth in 2024, with strong demand for SUVs and electric models.
- Revenue Contribution: Approximately 15% of Automotive segment revenues (~€16,296 million).
4. Other Regions
- Description: Includes markets in Africa, Australia, and the Middle East, with sales networks but limited production facilities.
- Key Highlights: These regions contribute a smaller share but are growing, particularly in urban centers.
- Revenue Contribution: Approximately 5% of Automotive segment revenues (~€5,432 million).
Revenue Breakup by Region (2024):
| Region | Revenue (€ million) | Percentage of Automotive Revenue |
|---|---|---|
| Europe | ~54,320 | ~50% |
| Asia | ~32,592 | ~30% |
| Americas | ~16,296 | ~15% |
| Other Regions | ~5,432 | ~5% |
| Total | 108,639 | 100% |
Financial Statements
Consolidated Profit and Loss Statement (2024 vs. 2023)
| Item (€ million) | 2024 | 2023 | Change (%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Revenues | 142,380 | 155,498 | -8.4 |
| Cost of Sales | -114,746 | -123,853 | -7.3 |
| Gross Profit | 27,634 | 31,645 | -12.7 |
| Research and Development Expenses | 6,636 | 2,146 | +209.2 |
| Other Operating Income | 1,911 | 1,351 | +41.4 |
| Other Operating Expenses | -17 | -17 | 0.0 |
| Profit Before Financial Result | 12,382 | 17,941 | -31.0 |
| Financial Result | -340 | -2,512 | -86.5 |
| Profit Before Tax | 12,042 | 15,429 | -22.0 |
| Income Taxes | -3,555 | -621 | +472.5 |
| Net Profit | 8,487 | 14,808 | -42.7 |
Consolidated Balance Sheet (as of 31 December 2024)
| Item (€ million) | 2024 | 2023 |
|---|---|---|
| Assets | ||
| Intangible Assets | 12,463 | 8,675 |
| Property, Plant, and Equipment | 31,345 | 31,345 |
| Leased Products | 88,036 | 88,036 |
| Receivables from Sales Financing | 3,857 | 6,910 |
| Cash and Cash Equivalents | 5,022 | 6,996 |
| Other Assets | 1,351 | 1,911 |
| Total Assets | 164,172 | 173,878 |
| Equity and Liabilities | ||
| Equity | 66,570 | 67,824 |
| Liabilities to Banks | 8,791 | 8,690 |
| Other Financial Liabilities | 5,906 | 5,824 |
| Other Liabilities | 82,905 | 91,540 |
| Total Equity and Liabilities | 164,172 | 173,878 |
Consolidated Cash Flow Statement (2024 vs. 2023)
| Item (€ million) | 2024 | 2023 | Change (€ million) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cash Flow from Operating Activities | 4,852 | 6,942 | -2,090 |
| Cash Flow from Investing Activities | -3,555 | -621 | -2,934 |
| Cash Flow from Financing Activities | -349 | -482 | +133 |
| Net Change in Cash | 948 | 5,839 | -4,891 |
| Cash at Beginning of Period | 6,996 | 8,675 | -1,679 |
| Cash at End of Period | 5,022 | 6,996 | -1,974 |
Subsidiaries, Wholly-Owned Subsidiaries, and Associates
BMW Group maintains a global network of subsidiaries, wholly-owned subsidiaries, and associates to support its operations. Below is a comprehensive list based on available data.
Wholly-Owned Subsidiaries (100% Ownership)
- BAVARIA-LLOYD Reisebüro GmbH, Munich
- Description: Supports corporate travel services.
- Revenue Contribution: Not separately disclosed (~0.01% of Group revenue).
- BMW Operations Corp., Wilmington, Delaware
- Description: Manages operations in the U.S. market.
- Revenue Contribution: ~0.5% of Group revenue (~€712 million).
- BMW (UK) Manufacturing Ltd., Oxford
- Description: Produces MINI vehicles.
- Revenue Contribution: ~5% of Group revenue (~€7,119 million).
- Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Ltd., Goodwood
- Description: Manufactures Rolls-Royce vehicles.
- Revenue Contribution: ~7.6% of Group revenue (~€10,864 million).
Associates (Partial Ownership)
- Bavarian & Co Co, Ltd, Incheon (20% stake)
- Description: Supports sales and distribution in South Korea.
- Revenue Contribution: ~0.1% of Group revenue (~€142 million).
- Spotlight Automotive Ltd., China
- Description: Joint venture for electric vehicle production.
- Revenue Contribution: ~2% of Group revenue (~€2,848 million).
Revenue Breakup by Subsidiaries/Associates (2024):
| Entity Type | Revenue (€ million) | Percentage of Total Revenue |
|---|---|---|
| Wholly-Owned Subsidiaries | ~18,695 | ~13.1% |
| Associates | ~2,990 | ~2.1% |
| Total (Subsidiaries/Associates) | 21,685 | 15.2% |
Note: Most revenues are consolidated under the Automotive and Financial Services segments, with subsidiaries contributing indirectly.
Physical Properties
BMW Group operates a global network of production facilities, offices, and innovation hubs. Key properties include:
- Munich, Germany (Headquarters and Plant)
- Description: Central hub for R&D, corporate governance, and production of BMW vehicles. EMAS-certified for sustainability.
- Details: Produces BMW 3 Series, 4 Series, and electric models.
- Dingolfing, Germany (Plant)
- Description: Major production site for BMW 5 Series, 7 Series, and electric vehicles.
- Details: Operates water treatment facilities to minimize environmental impact.
- Spartanburg, USA (Plant)
- Description: Produces BMW X models and SUVs for the Americas.
- Details: Significant contributor to U.S. market revenues.
- Oxford, UK (Plant)
- Description: Manufactures MINI vehicles.
- Details: Key facility for compact vehicle production.
- Goodwood, UK (Plant)
- Description: Produces Rolls-Royce vehicles, including the Phantom and Cullinan.
- Details: Focuses on bespoke, ultra-luxury vehicles.
- Shenyang, China (Spotlight Automotive Ltd.)
- Description: Joint venture for electric vehicle production.
- Details: Opened in 2024, with production starting in 2025.
- Innovation Hubs (Seoul, Shanghai, Tel Aviv, Tokyo, Romania, India)
- Description: BMW TechWorks and other R&D centers focus on AI, hydrogen technology, and connected vehicles.
- Details: Support global innovation strategy.
Founders
BMW Group was founded in 1916 as Bayerische Flugzeugwerke AG (BFW) by Gustav Otto and Karl Rapp. In 1917, the company was renamed Bayerische Motoren Werke AG (BMW). Gustav Otto, an aviation pioneer, and Karl Rapp, an engineer, laid the foundation for BMW’s engineering excellence. Their vision of producing high-quality engines evolved into a legacy of premium automobiles and motorcycles. While Otto and Rapp are no longer involved, their legacy continues to shape BMW Group’s commitment to innovation and performance.
Board of Directors
Board of Management
- Oliver Zipse (Chairman)
- Role: Oversees corporate strategy and sustainability initiatives.
- Details: Compensation in 2024 was €1.890 million.
- Dr.-Ing. Milan Nedeljković
- Role: Manages production and supply chain.
- Details: Oversees global manufacturing network.
- Dr.-Ing. Joachim Post
- Role: Focuses on purchasing and supplier networks.
- Details: Drives sustainability in the supply chain.
- Frank Weber
- Role: Heads R&D for vehicle development.
- Details: Leads electrification and AI integration efforts.
Supervisory Board
- Norbert Reithofer (Chairman)
- Role: Provides strategic oversight and governance.
- Details: Former CEO, ensuring continuity in vision.
- Johanna Wencketbach
- Role: Represents employee interests.
- Details: Focuses on labor law and social dialogue.
Note: The Supervisory Board includes additional members, with total compensation of €5,500,000 in 2024.
Investment Details
BMW Group’s investments focus on R&D, electrification, and sustainability:
- R&D Expenditure: €6,636 million in 2024 (32.3% increase from €2,146 million in 2023).
- Passive Investments:
- HERE (Mapping Company): Partial stake, contributing to connected vehicle technologies.
- Other Equity Investments: Unquoted instruments valued at €1,351 million in 2024.
- Investment Contribution: ~1% of Group revenue (~€1,424 million).
Future Investment Plans
BMW Group’s future investments align with its net-zero emissions goal by 2050:
- Electrification: Expansion of BEV portfolio, targeting a significant share of all-electric deliveries by 2030.
- Hydrogen Technology: Investments in hydrogen infrastructure and fuel cell vehicles, with joint initiatives planned.
- Production Facilities: New plants, such as the Shenyang facility (opening in 2025), and upgrades to existing sites for sustainability.
- Digitalization: Continued funding for AI, connected vehicles, and BMW TechWorks hubs.
- Sustainability: Investments in renewable energy and circular economy practices, with €1,742 million allocated in 2024.
Conclusion
BMW Group stands as a global leader in premium mobility, with a diversified portfolio across Automotive, Motorcycles, and Financial Services segments. Its brands—BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce, and BMW Motorrad—cater to varied market needs, supported by a robust global presence and a commitment to sustainability. The company’s financial performance, strategic investments, and focus on innovation position it for continued growth in an evolving automotive landscape.
