A historic moment in automotive history unfolded as one of only two original 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupes was auctioned for an unprecedented 135 million EUR. This sale establishes the vehicle as the most valuable car in the world and marks a significant contribution to global sustainability efforts. The auctioned Mercedes-Benz SLR, a jewel from the Mercedes-Benz Classic Collection, was acquired by a private collector who shares Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to corporate social responsibility.
This ultra-rare Mercedes-Benz SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe is not just any classic car; it is an icon. Named after Rudolf Uhlenhaut, the brilliant engineer behind its creation, this vehicle represents the pinnacle of automotive engineering and design from the 1950s. Automotive experts and enthusiasts globally recognize the Mercedes-Benz SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe for its exceptional performance and groundbreaking innovation. Only two prototypes were ever constructed, making this auctioned model an almost mythical piece of automotive heritage.
Ola Källenius, CEO of Mercedes-Benz Group AG, emphasized the profound significance of this event: “The 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupes are not merely cars; they are milestones in the evolution of sports cars and integral to our brand’s legacy. The decision to part with one of these unique Mercedes-Benz SLR models was carefully considered and driven by a noble cause. The substantial proceeds will seed the ‘Mercedes-Benz Fund,’ a global scholarship program dedicated to fostering education and research in environmental science and decarbonization. We aspire for this fund to inspire a new generation to emulate Rudolf Uhlenhaut’s pioneering spirit, developing technologies crucial for a sustainable future. Witnessing a Mercedes-Benz achieve the highest value ever for a car is both extraordinary and humbling, affirming Mercedes-Benz’s enduring position at the apex of automotive excellence.”
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: “As a global leader and luxury brand, Mercedes-Benz acknowledges its profound responsibility to society. The sale of the Mercedes-Benz SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe presents us with a unique opportunity to amplify our commitment through the ‘Mercedes-Benz Fund.’ This long-term initiative will provide crucial scholarships to young individuals dedicated to creating a more sustainable world. We firmly believe that investing in education within these critical fields is essential to addressing the pressing challenges of our time, fostering stability, prosperity, and greater social cohesion.”
The “Mercedes-Benz Fund,” fueled by the auction proceeds of the Mercedes-Benz SLR, will operate on a global scale, investing in the education of future generations. It will be structured into two key sub-programs: University Scholarships, designed to connect and empower students pursuing research in environmental science, and School Scholarships, focused on enabling younger pupils to engage in local environmental projects within their communities. Crucially, the fund will prioritize individuals lacking the financial resources to pursue these vital paths. Beyond financial aid, the “Mercedes-Benz Fund” will offer mentorship programs with Mercedes-Benz experts, enriching the recipients’ educational journey and career prospects. Mercedes-Benz is collaborating with an experienced partner organization, soon to be announced, to co-develop and manage this impactful initiative.
The historic auction of the Mercedes-Benz SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe took place on May 5th at the Mercedes-Benz Museum, in partnership with RM Sotheby’s. The exclusive event welcomed select Mercedes-Benz clientele and prominent international car and art collectors who resonate with the brand’s core values. The auctioned Mercedes-Benz SLR was previously a treasured part of the Mercedes-Benz Classic’s non-public collection, which encompasses over 1,100 vehicles spanning from the invention of the automobile to the present day.
Marcus Breitschwerdt, Head of Mercedes-Benz Heritage, expressed pride in this initiative: “We are immensely proud to contribute our historical collection to this forward-thinking initiative, bridging the legacy of automotive engineering with the future of decarbonization technology. We are grateful that the private buyer has agreed to keep the Mercedes-Benz SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe accessible for public display on special occasions. The second original Mercedes-Benz SLR Coupe will remain a centerpiece of the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart, ensuring that both remarkable vehicles continue to inspire.”
The Mercedes-Benz SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe’s mystique stems from its unique origins, distinctive design, and pioneering technology. Its design, notably featuring the iconic gullwing doors, established benchmarks that solidify its status as one of the most significant automotive icons globally. Coupled with its exceptional racing-derived performance, the Mercedes-Benz SLR Uhlenhaut Coupe has earned its legendary position in sports car history 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 at the Mercedes-Benz web special.
