BMW (Bayerische Motoren Werke) is a German manufacturer of cars, motorcycles, engines for use in various types of machinery. The company was founded in 1917 as a manufacturer of aircraft engines, but later became one of the largest automakers in the world. Bayerische Motoren Werke produces cars under the BMW, Mini and Rolls-Royce brands, and motorcycles - under the BMW Motorrad brand. The group includes 31 production and assembly facilities in 15 countries, as well as a global distribution network.