The hidden meanings behind 10 car-makers’ badges from Cadillac to Ferrari and Alfa Romeo

The hidden meanings behind 10 car-makers’ badges from Cadillac to Ferrari and Alfa Romeo

Alfa spells out Anonima Lombarda Fabbrica Automobili. While Romeo comes from the last name of the businessman who bought the company in 1915. The red cross and snake represent Milan.

ALFA ROMEO

The four circles overlapping represent the merging of brands Audi, DKW, Horch and Wanderer. They are silver to signify Germany's racing colour.

AUDI

Bentley originally manufactured aircraft engines, which is how their unmistakable wing badge was born. The colour silver was used to signify class and elegance.

BENTLEY

BMW stands for Bavarian Motor Works. The iconic blue and white design is symbolic of the Bavarian flag. Meanwhile, the black ring is a nod to the company's predecessor Rapp.

BMW

There are 60 dots outlining the red oval. One suggestion is they are pearls to signify wealth and sophistication.

BUGATTI

The badge displays the coat of arms of the company founder - French explorer Antoine Laumet de la Mothe - with a shield based on the armour of the baron of Lamothe-Bardigues.

CADILLAC

The badge features the Italian flag above a yellow shield, which represents Modena. The black horse was designed by Enzo Ferrari, based on one printed on an aircraft in WW1.

FERRARI