This 1955 Mercedes-Benz Just Became The Most Expensive Car Sold At Auction

An ultra-rare original 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupes from the Mercedes-Benz Classic Collection, just one of two prototypes ever made, has just sold for a staggering US$143 million, making it the most expensive vehicle to go under the hammer. 

According to CNBC, it surpasses the previous record holder, a 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO, which fetched US$48.5 million at Sotheby’s in 2018. 

According to the brand, the 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupes is largely considered to be “one of the finest examples of automotive engineering and design” by experts worldwide. 

“The 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupes are milestones in sports car development and key historical elements that have shaped our brand. The decision to sell one of these two unique sports cars was taken with very sound reasoning—to benefit a good cause,” explains Ola Källenius, CEO of Mercedes-Benz Group AG.

Having received a sizable profit, Mercedes-Benz plans to use the money as seed capital for a new global initiative, the Mercedes-Benz Fund. The fund will provide university scholarships in the area of environmental science, as well as school scholarships for pupils interested in helping their local communities environmentally. 

Additionally, program funds will be allocated to individuals who do not have the financial means to fulfill their career dreams, and will support the development of young people via extracurricular activities like mentorships and projects. 

“As a global company and as a luxury brand we bear a great level of responsibility towards society,” saus Renata Jungo Brüngger, Member of the Board of Management of Mercedes-Benz Group AG for Integrity and Legal Affairs, who will oversee the “Mercedes-Benz Fund”.

“We will establish the global scholarship program “Mercedes-Benz Fund” supporting young people in their studies, commitment, and actions towards a more sustainable future. We are convinced that access to education in these areas will be crucial in encountering the great challenges of our time and contribute to great stability, prosperity, and social cohesion.” 

[via CNBC and Mercedes-Benz AG Group, cover image via Mercedes-Benz AG Group]