An unprecedented moment in automotive history unfolded as one of only two original Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupes was auctioned for a staggering 135 million EUR. This record-breaking sale not only crowns the 1955 masterpiece as the most valuable car ever sold but also marks a significant step towards a sustainable future. The proceeds from this auction will seed the “Mercedes-Benz Fund,” a global initiative dedicated to supporting environmental science and decarbonization research and education for young people.
The Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe, an icon of automotive engineering and design, achieved this monumental price at a private auction held at the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart on May 5th. This ultra-rare vehicle, named after its creator, the brilliant Mercedes-Benz chief engineer Rudolf Uhlenhaut, is one of just two prototypes ever produced. Automotive experts and enthusiasts worldwide have long revered it as a pinnacle of automotive excellence, and this auction result solidifies its legendary status.
Ola Källenius, CEO of Mercedes-Benz Group AG, emphasized the profound rationale behind this historic sale. “The 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupes are milestones in sports car development, iconic vehicles that are fundamental to the heritage of Mercedes-Benz,” he stated. “The decision to auction one of these unique cars was made with a very clear objective – to raise significant funds for a truly worthwhile cause. With the ‘Mercedes-Benz Fund’ we aim to inspire a new generation to follow in Rudolf Uhlenhaut’s innovative spirit and pioneer groundbreaking technologies, particularly in the vital areas of decarbonization and environmental preservation. To achieve the highest price ever paid for a vehicle is both extraordinary and humbling, reaffirming that a Mercedes-Benz truly is 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 to social responsibility. “As a global company and a leading luxury brand, we recognize our responsibility to society,” she explained. “The proceeds from the sale of the 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe provide us with a unique opportunity to amplify our commitment through a long-term, impactful project. The ‘Mercedes-Benz Fund’ will offer a global scholarship program, empowering young individuals to pursue education, research, and initiatives focused on creating a more sustainable future. We firmly believe that facilitating access to education in these critical fields is essential to addressing the pressing challenges of our time and fostering greater global stability, prosperity, and social cohesion.”
Seeding the Future: The Mercedes-Benz Fund
The record-breaking auction of the 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe provides the essential seed capital for the newly established “Mercedes-Benz Fund.” Mercedes-Benz has pledged to further invest in this global initiative in the coming years. The fund will operate through two distinct sub-categories:
- University Scholarships: Designed to connect, educate, and motivate university students to undertake research projects in environmental science and related disciplines.
- School Scholarships: Focused on empowering pupils to develop and implement local environmental projects within their communities.
The “Mercedes-Benz Fund” will prioritize individuals who lack the financial resources to pursue their environmental ambitions and career paths. Beyond financial assistance, the program will offer valuable extracurricular components, including mentorship opportunities with Mercedes-Benz experts, providing unique career prospects and guidance. Mercedes-Benz is collaborating with an experienced partner organization, currently undergoing evaluation, to jointly develop and manage the fund. Further details regarding the program’s structure, rollout plan, and partner organization will be announced later this year.
A Legacy Preserved: History and Auction Details
The auction of the 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe, conducted in collaboration with renowned auctioneer RM Sotheby’s, was an exclusive event held within the Mercedes-Benz Museum. The select attendees included valued Mercedes-Benz customers and prominent international car and art collectors who share the brand’s core values. The auctioned 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe was drawn from the Mercedes-Benz Classic’s non-public collection, which encompasses over 1,100 vehicles tracing the history of the automobile from its inception in 1886 to the present day.
Marcus Breitschwerdt, Head of Mercedes-Benz Heritage, expressed pride in the historical collection’s contribution to this forward-looking 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,” he commented. “The private buyer has graciously agreed that the 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe will remain accessible for public viewing on special occasions. The second original 300 SLR Coupe will remain in Mercedes-Benz ownership and will continue to be a highlight of the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart.”
The Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe’s mystique is rooted in its exceptional origins, distinctive design, and groundbreaking technology. Its design, notably featuring the iconic “gullwing” doors, established benchmarks that cemented its position among the most significant automotive icons globally. Coupled with its unparalleled racing pedigree and performance, the 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe has secured its legendary status in sports car mythology and a cherished place in the hearts of Mercedes-Benz enthusiasts worldwide.
Further information about the Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe can be found in their web special.
