In an unprecedented event, one of only two original Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupes from the prestigious Mercedes-Benz Classic Collection has been auctioned for a staggering 135 million EUR. This record-breaking sale establishes the iconic vehicle as the most valuable car in history. More than just a transaction, this landmark auction is set to fuel significant change, with the proceeds dedicated to establishing a global “Mercedes-Benz Fund.” This initiative will champion education and research scholarships for young individuals passionate about environmental science and decarbonization.
The Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe, a 1955 masterpiece, achieved this monumental price at a recent auction, finding a new home with a private collector. This automotive legend is exceptionally rare, representing one of only two prototypes ever crafted. Named in honor of its visionary creator and chief engineer, Rudolf Uhlenhaut, the 300 SLR is celebrated globally by automotive experts and enthusiasts as a pinnacle of automotive engineering and design.
Ola Källenius, CEO of Mercedes-Benz Group AG, emphasized the profound significance of this sale: “The 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupes are not just cars; they are milestones in sports car evolution and cornerstones 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 contribute to a greater good. The funds generated from this auction will seed a worldwide scholarship program. Through the ‘Mercedes-Benz Fund,’ we aim to inspire a new generation to embody Rudolf Uhlenhaut’s spirit of innovation and pioneer groundbreaking technologies, particularly those crucial for achieving decarbonization and preserving our planet’s resources. Simultaneously, attaining the highest vehicle value ever recorded is both extraordinary and humbling. It unequivocally confirms that a Mercedes-Benz holds the title of 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 corporation and a luxury brand, we recognize our significant responsibility to society. The proceeds from the 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe auction present us with a unique opportunity to deepen our commitment through a long-term, flagship initiative. The global ‘Mercedes-Benz Fund’ scholarship program will empower young people in their academic pursuits, their dedication, and their actions towards a more sustainable future. We firmly believe that providing access to education in these critical fields is paramount to addressing the immense challenges of our time and fostering greater stability, prosperity, and social unity.”
Seeding the Future: The “Mercedes-Benz Fund” Scholarship Program
The remarkable sum generated from the auction of the Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe serves as the initial capital for this ambitious global initiative. Mercedes-Benz has pledged to supplement this with further investments in the years to come. The “Mercedes-Benz Fund” will operate through two distinct sub-categories:
- University Scholarships: Designed to connect, educate, and motivate university students to engage in cutting-edge research within environmental science projects.
- School Scholarships: Focused on empowering pupils to implement impactful local environmental projects within their own communities.
Funding will be specifically directed towards individuals who lack the financial resources to pursue their environmental projects and educational paths. Beyond financial assistance, the program will incorporate valuable extracurricular components, including mentorship opportunities with Mercedes-Benz experts, opening doors to promising career prospects within the industry. Mercedes-Benz is collaborating with a seasoned partner organization, currently undergoing evaluation, to co-develop and manage the “Mercedes-Benz Fund.” Comprehensive details regarding the program’s structure, implementation plan, and the partner organization will be announced later in the year.
A Historic Auction for a Historic Car
The exclusive auction of the 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe took place on May 5th at the Mercedes-Benz Museum, in partnership with the esteemed auction house RM Sotheby’s. The event welcomed a select group of Mercedes-Benz’s valued customers and prominent international car and art collectors who share the brand’s core values. The auctioned 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe was a prized piece from the non-public Mercedes-Benz Classic vehicle collection, 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 the initiative: “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 the vehicle accessible for public viewing on special occasions. The second original 300 SLR Coupe remains a cherished part of our company’s heritage and will continue to be displayed at the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart.”
The Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe’s mystique is rooted in its unique creation, groundbreaking design, and innovative technology, captivating enthusiasts to this day. Its design established benchmarks, solidifying its place among the world’s most iconic automobiles, notably featuring its signature “gullwing” doors. Coupled with its exceptional performance derived from purebred racing technology, the 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe has cemented its legendary status in sports car mythology and earned a special place in the hearts of Mercedes-Benz devotees worldwide.
Further information about the Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe can be explored in this web special.
