LeBron James-designed Mercedes Maybach heads to New York auction for charity
A Mercedes Maybach customised by basketball star LeBron James will be auctioned in New York later this month, with proceeds going to his family foundation's community work.
A specially customised 2027 Mercedes Maybach S 680, designed by LeBron James, is set to be auctioned in New York with an estimated value of between $425,000 and $550,000, roughly Dh1.56 million to Dh2.02 million. Only two nearly identical versions were made. James will keep one in his personal collection, while the other will be sold to raise money for charity.
James worked with the German carmaker through its Manufaktur made-to-measure programme. The car has a light ivory exterior, blue leather interior and his crown logo on the headrests and floor mats. For the first time in Maybach history, the traditional V12 badge has been replaced with a badge bearing James' personal logo. The 6.0-litre V12 engine produces 621 horsepower. The centre console shows the coordinates of Akron, Ohio, where James grew up.
Proceeds will benefit the LeBron James Family Foundation and its I PROMISE programme, which supports children and families in Akron through education and community initiatives. Gooding Christie's will offer the car at the Retromobile New York Auctions on November 20 and 21. It will be displayed at Mercedes-Benz Manhattan from November 9 to 16 before moving to the Javits Center. The final price will depend on what bidders are willing to pay.