In an unprecedented 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 a staggering 135 million EUR. This sale not only marks a historic moment for Mercedes-Benz but also establishes this particular Slr Mercedes as the most valuable car ever sold, eclipsing all previous records and solidifying its legendary status.
This remarkable 1955 SLR Mercedes 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe, a true icon of automotive history, was sold to a private collector, ensuring its legacy will be preserved for generations to come. Being one of just two prototypes ever constructed, named in honor of its visionary creator and chief engineer, Rudolf Uhlenhaut, this vehicle is revered by automotive experts and enthusiasts globally as a pinnacle of automotive engineering and design.
Ola Källenius, CEO of Mercedes-Benz Group AG, emphasized the significance of this moment, stating, “The 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupes are not just cars; they are milestones in sports car evolution and fundamental elements of Mercedes-Benz history. The decision to part with one of these unique SLR Mercedes was carefully considered and driven by a powerful purpose – to champion a good cause. The funds generated from this auction 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 and to innovate in crucial areas, particularly in technologies that advance decarbonization and environmental sustainability. Simultaneously, achieving the highest vehicle price ever is both extraordinary and humbling. It is a testament to the enduring value and desirability of a Mercedes-Benz, confirming it as the most valuable car brand 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,” elaborated on the company’s commitment: “As a global corporation and a leading luxury brand, Mercedes-Benz recognizes its profound responsibility to society. The proceeds from the sale of this SLR Mercedes Uhlenhaut Coupe furnish us with a unique opportunity to deepen our commitment through a long-term, flagship initiative. We are establishing the global ‘Mercedes-Benz Fund’ scholarship program to support young individuals in their academic pursuits, their dedication, and their actions toward a more sustainable future. We firmly believe that fostering education in these critical fields is paramount to addressing the significant challenges of our time and to fostering greater stability, prosperity, and social cohesion.”
Seeding the Future: The Mercedes-Benz Fund Scholarship Program
The auction of the SLR Mercedes 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe serves as the foundational capital for this ambitious global initiative. Mercedes-Benz has pledged to augment this initial investment with further resources in the years ahead. The “Mercedes-Benz Fund” will operate through two distinct sub-categories: University Scholarships, designed to connect, educate, and empower university students to engage in environmental science research projects, and School Scholarships, focused on enabling pupils to implement local environmental projects within their communities.
Crucially, the program will prioritize individuals who lack the financial resources to pursue their projects and educational goals. Beyond financial assistance, the “Mercedes-Benz Fund” will incorporate extracurricular elements, such as mentorships with Mercedes-Benz experts, to broaden career horizons for these young scholars. Mercedes-Benz is collaborating with an experienced partner organization, currently under evaluation, to co-develop and manage the “Mercedes-Benz Fund.” Detailed plans for the program’s structure and rollout, along with the identity of the partner organization, will be announced later in the year.
A Storied Past Meets a Sustainable Future: The 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe Auction
The historic auction of the SLR Mercedes 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe took place on May 5th at the Mercedes-Benz Museum, in partnership with the renowned auction house RM Sotheby’s. The exclusive guest list comprised select Mercedes-Benz clients and international car and art collectors who share Mercedes-Benz’s core values. The SLR Mercedes sold was an integral part of the Mercedes-Benz Classic non-public collection, which encompasses over 1,100 vehicles 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 engineering excellence with the future of decarbonization technology. The private buyer has graciously agreed that this exceptional SLR Mercedes Uhlenhaut Coupe will remain accessible for public viewing on special occasions. The second original 300 SLR Coupe remains under company ownership and will continue to be a highlight of the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart.”
The SLR Mercedes 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe’s mystique is deeply rooted in its extraordinary creation, its groundbreaking design, and its innovative technology, ensuring its allure endures to this day. Its design established benchmarks that cemented its place among the world’s most significant automotive icons, most notably due to its distinctive gullwing doors. Coupled with the phenomenal performance derived from its purebred racing technology, the SLR Mercedes 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe has rightfully earned its celebrated position in sports car mythology and a cherished place in the hearts of Mercedes-Benz enthusiasts worldwide.
For deeper insights into the SLR Mercedes 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe, further information is available at the Mercedes-Benz web special.
