#FranzJosefPopp

Franz Josef Popp was one of the founding figures of BMW and served as its general director from the company’s early automotive ventures through the Second World War. With a background in electrical engineering and a keen sense of industrial organization, Popp was instrumental in guiding BMW’s transformation from an aircraft engine manufacturer into a major player in motorcycles and automobiles. During the 1930s, under his leadership, BMW expanded production facilities, entered automobile manufacturing in earnest, and pursued a dual identity in both luxury and performance segments. Popp was a strong advocate for technical excellence and encouraged the development of models such as the 326, 327 and 328, balancing commercial viability with engineering prestige. He supported key figures like Fritz Fiedler and Rudolf Schleicher and fostered BMW’s involvement in motorsport as a strategic tool for reputation building. Though he was removed from his position in 1942 by the Nazi regime, Popp’s influence on BMW’s structure, identity and pre-war success remains foundational.

We'll publish a biography on him on the occasion of his anniversary or when it will be reached a sufficient number of cars.

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