In an unprecedented event, one of only two original 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupes from the Mercedes-Benz Classic Collection has been auctioned for a staggering €135 million. This sale establishes the Slr Mercedes as the most valuable car ever sold, surpassing all previous records and marking a monumental moment in automotive history.
The 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe, an icon of automotive design and engineering, was sold to a private collector on May 5th. This ultra-rare vehicle is one of just two prototypes ever created, named after Rudolf Uhlenhaut, the visionary creator and chief engineer behind it. Automotive experts and enthusiasts globally recognize the SLR Mercedes Uhlenhaut Coupe as a pinnacle of automotive excellence.
Ola Källenius, CEO of Mercedes-Benz Group AG, stated, “The 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupes are not only milestones in sports car development, but also crucial elements of our brand’s heritage. The decision to auction off one of these unique cars was made with a very specific and meaningful purpose – to support a truly good cause. The proceeds from this sale will establish a global scholarship program, the ‘Mercedes-Benz Fund.’ Through this fund, we aim to inspire a new generation to follow in Rudolf Uhlenhaut’s innovative footsteps, developing groundbreaking technologies, particularly in the critical areas of decarbonization and environmental preservation. Achieving the highest price ever paid for a vehicle is both extraordinary and humbling, solidifying the SLR Mercedes as 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 company and a luxury brand, we recognize our significant responsibility to society. The sale of the 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe provides us with a unique opportunity to strengthen our commitment through a long-term, impactful project. The global ‘Mercedes-Benz Fund’ will support young people in their education, dedication, and actions towards a more sustainable future. We firmly believe that access to education in these crucial fields is essential to addressing the pressing challenges of our time and fostering greater stability, prosperity, and social cohesion.”
The “Mercedes-Benz Fund”: Seeding a Sustainable Future
The record-breaking auction of the SLR Mercedes serves as the initial capital for the global “Mercedes-Benz Fund,” a significant initiative demonstrating Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to environmental sustainability and education. Mercedes-Benz has pledged to invest further resources in the coming years to expand the fund’s reach and impact.
The “Mercedes-Benz Fund” will operate through two primary sub-categories:
- University Scholarships: Designed to connect, educate, and empower university students to undertake research projects in environmental science and related fields.
- School Scholarships: Focused on enabling pupils to implement local environmental projects within their communities, fostering grassroots environmental action.
The fund prioritizes individuals who lack the financial resources to pursue their environmental projects and educational aspirations. Beyond financial assistance, the program will offer valuable extracurricular elements, including mentorships from Mercedes-Benz experts, providing unique career development opportunities. Mercedes-Benz is collaborating with an experienced partner organization, currently under evaluation, to jointly develop and manage the “Mercedes-Benz Fund.” Further details regarding the fund’s structure, implementation plan, and partner organization will be announced later this year.
A Legacy of Innovation: The 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe
The auction of the SLR Mercedes 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe took place on May 5th at the Mercedes-Benz Museum, in partnership with renowned auctioneer RM Sotheby’s. The exclusive event welcomed select Mercedes-Benz clients and international car and art collectors who share Mercedes-Benz’s core values. The auctioned SLR Mercedes was part of Mercedes-Benz Classic’s non-public collection, which comprises over 1,100 vehicles dating back to the invention of the automobile in 1886.
Marcus Breitschwerdt, Head of Mercedes-Benz Heritage, commented, “We are incredibly proud to contribute our historical collection to this initiative, bridging the past with the future of engineering and decarbonization technology. The private buyer has graciously agreed to keep the 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe accessible for public viewing on special occasions. The second original 300 SLR Coupe remains in company ownership and will continue to be a highlight of the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart.”
Image alt text: Side view of the iconic Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe, showcasing its distinctive gullwing doors and classic silver arrow racing car aesthetic.
The 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe’s mystique stems from its exceptional creation, unique design, and groundbreaking technology. Its design, particularly the signature “gullwing” doors, set new benchmarks and cemented its status as one of the world’s most significant automotive icons. Combined with its exceptional racing performance, the SLR Mercedes Uhlenhaut Coupe has earned its legendary status in sports car history and a special place in the hearts of Mercedes-Benz enthusiasts worldwide.
For more in-depth information about the Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe, please visit the web special.
