Acquisitions

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Over the decades, the name BMW became synonymous with luxury. With its lines of sedans and sports cars, BMW became one of the great cornerstones of the automobile industry. Their attention to detail, amongst other things, resonated with the market. BMW was also known for its daring and ingenuity. For example, in 1990 BMW opened a Research and Innovation Center in Munich, the first of its kind in the automobile industry.  The facility hosted an army of engineers, managers, scientists, designers, and other innovative staff to collaborate and create luxury top of the line vehicles.

It was in 1994 that BMW finally set up shop in the United States. This newest move allowed BMW not only to expand its global operations, but it also allowed the company to manufacturer cars right in the backyard of its biggest consumer. The first plant was built in Spartanburg, South Carolina and was completely dedicated to producing the Z3 roadster. To this day, the plant continues to produce the Z3 as well as the X3, X5, and X6.

1994 also saw the acquisition of the British-based Rover Group by BMW. The Rover Group is best known for their sports vehicles like the Mini, Mg, and Land Rover. Initially, BMW had big plans involving the Rover Group, but they eventually sold the group in 2000, keeping the Mini model for their own purposes.

BMW’s hunger for acquiring other automobile manufacturers didn’t end there. In 1998, BMW purchased the Rolls-Royce group. BMW was able to gain both the naming rights for Rolls-Royce vehicles and the ownership of the brand.