A stunning piece of automotive history, the 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe, has cemented its legendary status by becoming the most valuable car ever sold at auction. Fetching an astounding €135 million, this ultra-rare vehicle, one of only two original prototypes, was acquired by a private collector. This landmark sale not only highlights the unparalleled allure of the 300 Slr 1955 Mercedes-benz but also paves the way for a significant global initiative.
This automotive icon, a 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe, is more than just a car; it’s a testament to groundbreaking engineering and timeless design. Named after Rudolf Uhlenhaut, the brilliant engineer behind its creation, this coupe represents the pinnacle of automotive achievement. Experts and car aficionados worldwide recognize the 300 SLR 1955 Mercedes-Benz as an exceptional example of automotive excellence.
Ola Källenius, CEO of Mercedes-Benz Group AG, emphasized the significance of this moment: “The 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupes are not just cars; they are milestones in sports car evolution and crucial elements of our brand’s heritage. Selling one of these truly unique vehicles was a carefully considered decision, driven by the desire to support a truly worthy cause. The funds generated from this auction will establish a global scholarship program, the ‘Mercedes-Benz Fund’. Our aim with this fund is to inspire a new generation to emulate Rudolf Uhlenhaut’s innovative spirit and develop groundbreaking technologies, particularly those focused on the critical goals of decarbonization and resource conservation. Achieving the highest price ever for a vehicle is both extraordinary and humbling. It unequivocally confirms that a Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR 1955 is, without question, the most valuable car in the world.”
Renata Jungo Brüngger, Member of the Board of Management of Mercedes-Benz Group AG for Integrity and Legal Affairs, further elaborated on the company’s commitment: “As a global entity and a luxury brand, Mercedes-Benz acknowledges a profound responsibility to society. The proceeds from the sale of the 300 SLR 1955 Mercedes-Benz Uhlenhaut Coupe provide us with a unique opportunity to amplify our commitment through a long-term, flagship initiative. The ‘Mercedes-Benz Fund’ will be a global scholarship program supporting young individuals in their pursuit of education and their dedication to a more sustainable future. We firmly believe that providing access to education in these crucial areas will be instrumental in addressing the significant challenges of our time and fostering greater stability, prosperity, and social cohesion.”
Mercedes-Benz Fund: Investing in a Sustainable Future
The record-breaking auction of the 300 SLR 1955 Mercedes-Benz Uhlenhaut Coupe serves as the foundational capital for the “Mercedes-Benz Fund,” a global initiative dedicated to fostering education in environmental science and decarbonization. Mercedes-Benz has pledged further investments in the coming years, underscoring its long-term commitment to this vital cause.
The “Mercedes-Benz Fund” will operate through two distinct sub-categories: University Scholarships, designed to connect, educate, and empower students to undertake research in environmental science, and School Scholarships, focused on enabling pupils to implement local environmental projects within their communities. Crucially, the program will prioritize individuals lacking the financial resources to pursue these academic and career paths. Beyond financial aid, the “Mercedes-Benz Fund” will offer invaluable extracurricular support, including mentorships from Mercedes-Benz professionals, opening up new career horizons for recipients. Mercedes-Benz is collaborating with an experienced partner organization, currently under evaluation, to jointly develop and manage the “Mercedes-Benz Fund.” Details regarding the partnership and program implementation will be announced later this year.
A History Etched in Automotive Legend
The auction of the 300 SLR 1955 Mercedes-Benz Uhlenhaut Coupe took place on May 5th at the Mercedes-Benz Museum, in collaboration with renowned auction house RM Sotheby’s. The exclusive event welcomed select Mercedes-Benz clients and international car and art collectors who share the brand’s core values. The auctioned 300 SLR 1955 Mercedes-Benz was previously part of the Mercedes-Benz Classic’s non-public collection, which encompasses over 1,100 vehicles spanning from the invention of the automobile to the present day.
Marcus Breitschwerdt, Head of Mercedes-Benz Heritage, expressed pride in this initiative: “We are immensely proud that our historical collection can contribute to this initiative, bridging the past with the future of engineering and decarbonization technology. The private buyer has graciously agreed to keep the 300 SLR 1955 Mercedes-Benz Uhlenhaut Coupe accessible for public viewing on special occasions. The second original 300 SLR Coupe will remain under company ownership and will continue to be a highlight at the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart.”
The 300 SLR 1955 Mercedes-Benz Uhlenhaut Coupe is shrouded in mystique, stemming from its unique creation, groundbreaking design, and innovative technology. Its design established benchmarks that positioned it among the most significant automotive icons globally, most notably due to its signature “gullwing” doors. Coupled with its exceptional performance derived from thoroughbred racing technology, the 300 SLR 1955 Mercedes-Benz Uhlenhaut Coupe has rightfully earned its legendary status in sports car mythology and a special place in the hearts of Mercedes-Benz enthusiasts worldwide.
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