The ‘most valuable car’ in the world sells for a record 135 million euros – but it’s a good cause | World News
The “most valuable car in the world”, a 1955 Mercedes-Benz, has sold for a record 135 million euros (£114.4 million).
The car is just one of two extremely rare original 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Coupes from the Mercedes-Benz Classic Collection and has been sold to a private collector.
Proceeds from the auction will be used to establish the worldwide Mercedes Benz Foundation to provide educational and research scholarships in environmental science and decarbonisation.
Named after its creator and chief engineer, Rudolf Uhlenhaut, the coupe was a “milestone” car with the distinct “winged doors” that helped define the Mercedes brand.
The auction took place with RM Sotheby’s at the German Mercedes-Benz museum, with the participation of a number of collectors and Mercedes-Benz customers.
Private buyers have agreed that it will remain accessible for public display “on special occasions” and that its twins remain in company ownership and will remain on display in Stuttgart.
Ola Källenius, CEO of the Mercedes-Benz AG Group.
“At the same time, achieving the highest price ever paid for a vehicle is extraordinary and humbling: A Mercedes-Benz is by far the most valuable car in the world.”
“As a global company and as a luxury brand, we have a huge responsibility to society,” said Renata Jungo Brüngger, member of the board of directors of Mercedes-Benz.
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The fund will help build a “more sustainable future,” she said: “We believe that access to education in these areas will be critical to facing the great challenges of our times. and contribute to more stability, prosperity and social cohesion. “