Bayerische Motoren Werke AG — Ethics Grade C

Bayerische Motoren Werke AG receives an overall ethics grade of C (52/100) on CancelCo's corporate accountability database. Sector: Automotive. Market cap: Large Cap.

Category scores

• labor: 60
• privacy: 78
• consumer: 48
• environment: 55
• humanRights: 42

Documented incidents (3)

• Emissions Cartel Fine (high, 2021) — BMW was fined €373 million by the European Commission for colluding with other German carmakers to restrict the development and rollout of cleaner emissions technology (AdBlue tanks).
• Brake System Recall (high, 2024) — Recalled over 1.5 million vehicles globally due to potential malfunctions in the integrated braking system, which could lead to increased stopping distances and safety risks.
• Uighur Forced Labor Allegations (medium, 2023) — Human rights groups cited BMW as potentially sourcing components from suppliers linked to forced labor transfers in the Xinjiang region of China. The company stated it was investigating its supply chain but faced significant public backlash.

Documented good deeds

• Circular Economy Focus — Launched the 'i Vision Circular' initiative, pledging to use 100% recycled materials in vehicle production by 2040.

Ethical alternatives

• Volvo Car AB — Stronger commitment to safety and more aggressive electrification timeline with higher supply chain transparency.