In an unprecedented event that has reset the benchmarks for automotive ارزش, a 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe has been auctioned for a staggering 135 million EUR (approximately 143 million USD). This sale not only crowns it as the most valuable car ever sold but also marks a pivotal moment in automotive history. One of only two prototypes ever crafted, this automotive icon, christened after its ingenious creator Rudolf Uhlenhaut, chief engineer at Mercedes-Benz, is globally lauded by experts and enthusiasts as a pinnacle of automotive engineering and design.
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 crucial threads in the tapestry of our brand’s heritage. The decision to part with one of these uniquely rare sports cars was carefully considered and driven by a noble cause. The auction proceeds will seed a global scholarship program, the ‘Mercedes-Benz Fund.’ Our aspiration with this fund is to inspire a new generation to emulate Rudolf Uhlenhaut’s pioneering spirit, fostering the development of groundbreaking technologies, particularly those aimed at achieving decarbonization and preserving our planet’s resources. Witnessing a Mercedes-Benz attain the highest price ever paid for a vehicle is both extraordinary and humbling. It unequivocally positions Mercedes-Benz as the zenith of automotive value worldwide.”
Renata Jungo Brüngger, Member of the Board of Management of Mercedes-Benz Group AG for Integrity and Legal Affairs, overseeing the governance of the “Mercedes-Benz Fund,” emphasized the broader societal responsibility: “As a global corporation and a beacon of luxury, Mercedes-Benz acknowledges its profound responsibility to society. The funds generated from the 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe auction present us with an unparalleled opportunity to amplify our commitment through a long-term, flagship initiative. The ‘Mercedes-Benz Fund’ will be a global scholarship program, empowering young individuals in their academic pursuits and their dedication to forging a more sustainable future. We firmly believe that facilitating access to education in these critical fields is paramount to addressing the monumental challenges of our era and fostering enhanced stability, prosperity, and social unity.”
Launching the Mercedes-Benz Fund: A Legacy of Innovation and Sustainability
The monumental auction of the 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe serves as the foundational capital for the global “Mercedes-Benz Fund.” Mercedes-Benz has pledged further investments in the years ahead, underscoring its commitment to this initiative. The fund is structured into two distinct yet interconnected sub-categories:
- University Scholarships: Designed to cultivate a network of future leaders, these scholarships will support university students engaged in environmental science research projects, fostering collaboration, education, and innovation.
- School Scholarships: Focusing on grassroots impact, these scholarships will empower pupils to implement local environmental projects within their communities, encouraging early engagement and practical solutions.
Crucially, the “Mercedes-Benz Fund” is dedicated to supporting individuals who lack the financial means to pursue their environmental ambitions and career paths. Beyond mere financial aid, the program will incorporate valuable extracurricular elements, including mentorships from Mercedes-Benz experts, thereby unlocking new career horizons and providing invaluable guidance. Mercedes-Benz is collaborating with an experienced partner organization, currently under evaluation, to co-develop and manage the “Mercedes-Benz Fund,” ensuring its efficacy and reach. Detailed plans for the fund’s structure, rollout, and the chosen partner organization will be announced later in the year.
A Storied Past, A Sustainable Future: The 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe Legacy
The auction of the 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe, a collaborative event with the prestigious RM Sotheby’s, took place on May 5th at the Mercedes-Benz Museum. The exclusive guest list comprised select Mercedes-Benz clientele and international car and art collectors, all sharing Mercedes-Benz’s core values. The auctioned 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe was a prized piece from Mercedes-Benz Classic’s non-public collection, a treasure trove of over 1,100 automobiles charting the invention of the automobile from 1886 to the present day.
Marcus Breitschwerdt, Head of Mercedes-Benz Heritage, proudly remarked, “We are honored that our historical collection can contribute to this forward-looking initiative, bridging the legacy of engineering excellence with the future of decarbonization technology. The private collector who acquired the 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe has graciously agreed to keep it accessible for public viewing on special occasions. The second original 300 SLR Coupe remains a cherished asset of Mercedes-Benz and will continue to be showcased at the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart.”
The mystique surrounding the 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe is deeply rooted in its extraordinary origins, groundbreaking design, and pioneering technology. Its design philosophy established benchmarks that cemented its status as an automotive icon, notably characterized by its iconic “gullwing” doors. Furthermore, its exceptional performance, born from thoroughbred racing technology, has solidified the 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe’s legendary position in sports car lore and its revered place in the hearts of Mercedes-Benz enthusiasts globally.
For deeper insights into the Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe, explore our web special.
