In an unprecedented event, one of only two original Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupes has been auctioned for a staggering 135 million EUR, making it the most expensive car ever sold. This iconic vehicle from the Mercedes-Benz Classic Collection not only breaks records but also paves the way for a brighter future through the newly established “Mercedes-Benz Fund”.
A 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe, a true jewel in automotive history, has been acquired by a private collector for a record-breaking 135 million EUR. This ultra-rare car, of which only two prototypes were ever created, is named after its visionary engineer, Rudolf Uhlenhaut. Automotive experts and enthusiasts globally recognize it as a pinnacle of automotive engineering and design, embodying the spirit of innovation and luxury synonymous with Mercedes-Benz.
Ola Källenius, CEO of Mercedes-Benz Group AG, stated, “The 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupes are not just cars; they are milestones in sports car evolution and fundamental elements of our brand’s heritage. Selling one of these exceptional vehicles was a carefully considered decision made to support a truly meaningful cause. The auction proceeds will seed a global scholarship program, the ‘Mercedes-Benz Fund’. Inspired by Rudolf Uhlenhaut’s groundbreaking work, we aim to empower a new generation to develop cutting-edge technologies, particularly those focused on decarbonization and environmental preservation. Achieving the highest price ever for a vehicle is both extraordinary and humbling, affirming that a Mercedes-Benz is, indeed, 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, responsible for the governance of the “Mercedes-Benz Fund,” added, “As a global luxury brand, Mercedes-Benz recognizes its significant responsibility to society. The sale of the 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe provides a unique opportunity to deepen our commitment through a long-term, impactful project. The ‘Mercedes-Benz Fund’ will offer global scholarships, supporting young individuals dedicated to creating a more sustainable future through their studies and actions. We firmly believe that investing in education within these critical areas is essential to addressing the pressing challenges of our time and fostering greater stability, prosperity, and social cohesion.”
Mercedes-Benz Fund: Seeding a Sustainable Future Through Education
The remarkable sum generated from the auction of the 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe serves as the foundational capital for the “Mercedes-Benz Fund,” a global initiative with a strong focus on environmental sustainability. Mercedes-Benz has pledged to further invest in this fund in the years to come, demonstrating a long-term commitment to its goals.
The “Mercedes-Benz Fund” will operate through two primary scholarship streams:
- University Scholarships: Designed to connect, educate, and inspire university students to engage in environmental science research and projects, fostering the next generation of environmental pioneers.
- School Scholarships: Focused on empowering younger pupils to develop and implement local environmental projects within their communities, encouraging grassroots environmental action and awareness.
Crucially, the program will prioritize individuals who lack the financial resources to pursue their environmental ambitions. Beyond financial assistance, the “Mercedes-Benz Fund” will offer invaluable extracurricular support, including mentorship opportunities with Mercedes-Benz experts, thereby enhancing career prospects and providing real-world guidance. Mercedes-Benz is collaborating with an experienced partner organization, currently under evaluation, to co-develop and manage the “Mercedes-Benz Fund,” ensuring its effectiveness and reach. Details regarding the partnership and program rollout will be announced later in the year.
A Historic Auction for a Historic Car
The auction of the 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe took place on May 5th at the Mercedes-Benz Museum, in collaboration with the prestigious auction house RM Sotheby’s. The exclusive event welcomed select Mercedes-Benz clients and international car and art collectors who share Mercedes-Benz’s core values. The auctioned 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe was a prized piece from the non-public Mercedes-Benz Classic vehicle collection, which encompasses over 1,100 automobiles dating back to the invention of the automobile in 1886.
Marcus Breitschwerdt, Head of Mercedes-Benz Heritage, remarked, “We are incredibly proud to contribute to this vital initiative through our historical collection, bridging the past with the future of engineering and decarbonization technology. The private buyer has graciously agreed to keep the 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe accessible for public display on special occasions. The second original 300 SLR Coupe will remain a treasured company asset and will continue to be exhibited at the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart, allowing enthusiasts to appreciate its legacy.”
The 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe’s mystique is rooted in its exceptional creation, groundbreaking design, and pioneering technology. Its design established new benchmarks, securing its place among the world’s most significant automotive icons, particularly celebrated for its distinctive gullwing doors. Furthermore, its unparalleled racing technology delivered outstanding performance, cementing the 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe’s legendary status in sports car history and its special place in the hearts of Mercedes-Benz devotees worldwide.
Further information about the Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe can be found in their web special.
