Rudolf Uhlenhaut: Engineer and Gentleman, Father of the Mercedes 300 SL

This first comprehensive biography of Rudolf Uhlenhaut, illustrated with many previously unpublished photographs, depicts his life and technical accomplishments, including a complete compilation of his patents which puts them into a technical and historical context.

Format: Hardback
Length: 208 pages
Publication date: 21 September 2023
Publisher: Dalton Watson Fine Books

This first comprehensive biography of Rudolf Uhlenhaut, illustrated with many previously unpublished photographs, depicts his life and technical accomplishments, including a complete compilation of his patents, which puts them into a technical and historical context. An engineer and designer for Daimler-Benz, he became famous for his achievements regarding the Silver Arrows, the 300 SL with the famous gull-wing doors, the legendary Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR, and the various record-breaking experimental C 111 versions. Based on numerous interviews with Uhlenhaut himself, contemporary witnesses, colleagues, and family members, the book paints a vivid picture of the person behind the technical innovations and explores his character and motivation. Born in 1906 in London, the son of an English mother and a German father, Rudolf Uhlenhaut joined Daimler-Benz in 1931 after finishing his mechanical engineering studies in Munich. In 1936, he took over as head of the racing department and conducted the Silver Arrows and Rudolf Caracciola to their 1937 European championship. After World War II, he created the road versions W 198 and the smaller open-topped W 121 of the 300 SL Gullwing, both launched at the International Motor Sports Show in New York in 1954. Uhlenhaut's official company car, a 300 SLR with a top speed of 290 km/h, was the Uhlenhaut Coupe - the fastest car of its day authorized for road use.

Rudolf Uhlenhaut: A Life in Engineering and Design

Born in 1906 in London, Rudolf Uhlenhaut's journey in engineering and design began with his studies in mechanical engineering at Munich. His passion for automobiles led him to join Daimler-Benz in 1931, where he quickly rose to prominence as an engineer and designer. Uhlenhaut's contributions to the automotive industry were remarkable, particularly his work on the Silver Arrows, the 300 SL, the Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR, and the experimental C 111 versions.

The Silver Arrows, a racing team under the leadership of Uhlenhaut, achieved unprecedented success in the 1930s, winning numerous Grand Prix races and setting world records. The 300 SL, with its iconic gull-wing doors, was another hallmark of Uhlenhaut's design prowess. Released in 1954, the 300 SL was a masterpiece of engineering and aesthetics, and it quickly became one of the most iconic cars in automotive history.

But Uhlenhaut's contributions went beyond the Silver Arrows and the 300 SL. He played a crucial role in the development of the Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR, a high-performance sports car that broke numerous speed records in its time. Uhlenhaut's innovative engineering techniques and attention to detail made the 300 SLR a true engineering marvel.

In addition to his work on automobiles, Uhlenhaut was also involved in the development of experimental aircraft. He worked on the C 111, a series of experimental aircraft that pushed the boundaries of aviation technology. The C 111's sleek design and advanced features made it a symbol of German engineering excellence.

Despite his many achievements, Uhlenhaut remained humble and dedicated to his work. He was known for his passion for engineering, his attention to detail, and his ability to inspire his colleagues and students. His legacy continues to inspire automotive enthusiasts and engineers around the world, and his contributions to the automotive industry will be remembered for generations to come.

In conclusion, Rudolf Uhlenhaut's life and career in engineering and design were a testament to his passion, dedication, and innovation. His work on the Silver Arrows, the 300 SL, the Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR, and the experimental C 111 versions left an indelible mark on the automotive industry, and his legacy continues to inspire engineers and enthusiasts alike.

Weight: 1308g
Dimension: 229 x 314 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781854432827