A 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe has shattered records, fetching a staggering 135 million EUR at auction and claiming the title of the most valuable car in the world. This automotive icon, one of only two original prototypes, was sold from the Mercedes-Benz Classic Collection to a private collector, marking a historic moment in automotive history. Named after its visionary creator, chief engineer Rudolf Uhlenhaut, the 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe is celebrated by experts and enthusiasts globally as a pinnacle of automotive engineering and design from the 1950s Mercedes Benz era.
Ola Källenius, CEO of Mercedes-Benz Group AG, emphasized the significance of this sale: “The 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupes are not just cars; they are milestones in sports car evolution and pivotal elements 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 champion a truly meaningful cause. The funds generated from this auction will seed a global scholarship program, the ‘Mercedes-Benz Fund’. Our aspiration is that this fund will inspire a new generation to emulate Rudolf Uhlenhaut’s pioneering spirit and develop groundbreaking technologies, particularly those focused on the critical imperatives of decarbonization and resource conservation. Witnessing a Mercedes-Benz achieve the highest value ever recorded for a vehicle is both extraordinary and deeply humbling. It unequivocally confirms that a Mercedes-Benz is, indeed, the most prized 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 broader societal responsibility driving this initiative: “As a global corporation and a leading luxury brand, Mercedes-Benz recognizes its profound responsibility to society. The proceeds from the sale of the 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe present us with an unparalleled opportunity to amplify our commitment through a long-term, flagship project. The ‘Mercedes-Benz Fund’ global scholarship program will empower young individuals in their academic pursuits, their dedication, and their actions towards building a more sustainable future. We firmly believe that facilitating access to education in these crucial fields is paramount to addressing the pressing challenges of our time and fostering greater stability, prosperity, and social harmony.”
Seeding a Sustainable Future: The Mercedes-Benz Fund Scholarship Program
The record-breaking auction of the 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe serves as the foundational capital for this ambitious global initiative. Mercedes-Benz is committed to augmenting this initial investment with further resources in the years to come, ensuring the long-term impact of the “Mercedes-Benz Fund”. The fund will operate through two distinct yet interconnected sub-categories:
- University Scholarships: Designed to foster collaboration, education, and innovation among university students, these scholarships will support research projects focused on environmental science and related disciplines. The aim is to cultivate a new generation of environmental pioneers and accelerate breakthroughs in sustainability.
- School Scholarships: Targeting younger pupils, these scholarships will empower students to conceptualize and implement local environmental projects within their communities. This grassroots approach aims to instill environmental consciousness and drive tangible positive change from the ground up.
Crucially, the “Mercedes-Benz Fund” is dedicated to supporting individuals who may lack the financial resources to pursue their environmental aspirations and career paths. The program extends beyond mere financial assistance, incorporating invaluable extracurricular elements such as mentorship opportunities with Mercedes-Benz experts. These mentorships will provide guidance, open doors, and broaden career horizons for scholarship recipients, ensuring they are well-equipped to become future leaders in sustainability. Mercedes-Benz is collaborating with an experienced partner organization, currently undergoing evaluation, to co-develop and manage the “Mercedes-Benz Fund”, ensuring its effective and impactful operation. Detailed plans regarding the fund’s structure, implementation, and partner organization will be announced later in the year.
A Legacy Auction: History Meets Future at the Mercedes-Benz Museum
The historic 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 exclusive 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 Mercedes-Benz Classic’s non-public collection, a treasure trove of 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 immensely proud that our historical collection can contribute to this forward-thinking initiative, seamlessly connecting the legacy of automotive engineering with the future of decarbonization technology.” He further noted the private buyer’s commendable agreement to ensure the 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe remains accessible for public viewing on special occasions. The second original 300 SLR Coupe will remain a cherished asset within Mercedes-Benz ownership and will continue to be prominently displayed at the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart, allowing enthusiasts to appreciate its enduring beauty and historical significance.
The Enduring Mystique of the 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe
The 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe is enveloped in an aura of mystique, stemming from its extraordinary origins, groundbreaking design, and innovative technology. Its design philosophy established benchmarks that cemented its status as one of the world’s most significant automotive icons. Notably, its distinctive “gullwing” doors are instantly recognizable and contribute to its legendary status. Furthermore, its exceptional performance, derived from its racing-bred engineering, solidified the 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe’s revered position in sports car mythology and its special place in the hearts of Mercedes-Benz aficionados worldwide. This 1955 Mercedes Benz masterpiece is more than just a car; it’s a symbol of innovation, history, and now, a catalyst for a sustainable future.
Further details about the remarkable Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe can be explored in their web special.
