In a landmark event that has reverberated throughout the automotive world, one of only two original 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupes from the esteemed Mercedes-Benz Classic Collection has been auctioned for an astounding 135 million EUR. This unprecedented sale to a private collector establishes this automotive icon as the most valuable car ever sold, marking a pivotal moment in automotive history.
This 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe is not merely a car; it is a symbol of automotive excellence and rarity. As one of just two prototypes meticulously crafted during its era, this vehicle, christened after its visionary creator and chief engineer Rudolf Uhlenhaut, is celebrated by automotive experts and enthusiasts globally as a pinnacle of automotive engineering and design.
Ola Källenius, CEO of Mercedes-Benz Group AG, articulated the significance of this momentous occasion, stating, “The 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupes are not just cars; they are milestones in sports car evolution and fundamental elements of our brand’s heritage. The decision to part with one of these unique vehicles was carefully considered and driven by a powerful purpose – to champion a noble cause. The auction proceeds will seed a global scholarship program, the ‘Mercedes-Benz Fund,’ aimed at nurturing a new generation of innovators, echoing Rudolf Uhlenhaut’s pioneering spirit, to develop groundbreaking technologies. Crucially, these technologies will focus on advancing decarbonization and resource conservation.” He further emphasized the magnitude of the achievement, “Attaining the highest price ever recorded for a vehicle is both extraordinary and humbling. It unequivocally affirms that a Mercedes-Benz reigns as 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, underscored the broader societal responsibility inherent in this initiative. “As a global entity and a luxury marque, we acknowledge our profound responsibility to society,” she commented, highlighting her governance role within the ‘Mercedes-Benz Fund.’ “The funds generated from the 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe auction present us with an unparalleled opportunity to deepen our commitment through a long-term, flagship undertaking. The global ‘Mercedes-Benz Fund’ scholarship program will empower young individuals in their academic pursuits, endeavors, and initiatives aimed at fostering a more sustainable future. We firmly believe that facilitating access to education in these critical domains is paramount to confronting the pressing challenges of our time and fostering greater global stability, prosperity, and social harmony.”
Seeding the Future: The Mercedes-Benz Fund Scholarship Program
The remarkable auction price of the 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe provides the essential seed capital for this ambitious global initiative. Mercedes-Benz has pledged to augment this initial investment with further resources in the years ahead, demonstrating a long-term commitment to the fund’s objectives. The “Mercedes-Benz Fund” will operate through two distinct yet interconnected sub-programs:
- University Scholarships: Designed to connect, educate, and inspire university students to engage in cutting-edge research projects focused on environmental science and related disciplines.
- School Scholarships: Concentrating on empowering younger pupils to conceptualize and implement impactful local environmental projects within their own communities.
The fund’s core mission is to support individuals who, despite their potential, may lack the financial means to pursue their educational and career aspirations in these vital fields. Beyond financial assistance, the program will incorporate enriching extracurricular elements, including mentorship opportunities with Mercedes-Benz experts, thereby broadening career horizons and providing invaluable real-world insights. Mercedes-Benz is collaborating with a seasoned partner organization, currently under evaluation, to co-develop and manage the “Mercedes-Benz Fund,” ensuring its effective and impactful implementation. Further details regarding the program’s structure, rollout plan, and partner organization will be announced later in the year.
The Legacy of the 300 SLR Mercedes-Benz Uhlenhaut Coupe
The auction of the 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe took place on May 5th at a prestigious event held within the Mercedes-Benz Museum, in partnership with renowned auction house RM Sotheby’s. The exclusive guest list comprised select Mercedes-Benz clientele and prominent international car and art collectors who share Mercedes-Benz’s core values. The auctioned 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe originated from the non-public Mercedes-Benz Classic vehicle collection, a treasure trove encompassing over 1,100 automobiles spanning from the invention of the automobile in 1886 to the present day.
Marcus Breitschwerdt, Head of Mercedes-Benz Heritage, expressed pride in this initiative, stating, “We are immensely proud that our historical collection can contribute to this forward-looking endeavor, bridging the legacy of automotive engineering with the imperative of decarbonization technology.” He also highlighted the private buyer’s commitment to public access, “The private buyer has graciously agreed that the 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe will remain accessible for public viewing on special occasions. Furthermore, the second original 300 SLR Coupe will remain a cherished part of the company’s collection and will continue to be prominently displayed at the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart.”
The 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe’s mystique is deeply rooted in its unique genesis, groundbreaking design, and pioneering technology, ensuring its enduring appeal. Its design philosophy established benchmarks that cemented its status as one of the world’s most iconic automobiles, most notably recognized for its signature “gullwing” doors. Coupled with its exceptional performance derived from its purebred racing pedigree, the 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe has firmly secured its legendary position in sports car mythology and holds a distinguished place in the hearts of Mercedes-Benz enthusiasts worldwide.
More in-depth information about the Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe can be explored in their dedicated web special.
