Mercedes-Benz co-sponsored The Art of Elysium’s Fourth Annual Black Tie charity gala titled “Heaven” on Saturday, January 15, 2011 at the California Science Center’s Annenberg Building. The night before the Golden Globes, the Charity’s largest fundraiser brings together Hollywood’s most influential and creative talent for an evening of celebration and inspiration.
“We have a great appreciation for the work being conducted by The Art of Elysium and the dedication of its staff and supporters,” said Lisa Holladay, Brand Experience Marketing with Mercedes-Benz USA “Our involvement aims to enrich the evening for everyone and make it a successful event that allows The Art of Elysium to continue its mission in helping children in need.”
As the automotive sponsor, Mercedes-Benz provided S400 Hybrids for VIP transportation and BlueTEC clean diesel transport for children attending the gala, who were inspired by the Art of Elysium during their time in a hospital.
The S400 HYBRID features the world’s first lithium-ion battery in a production vehicle. The 275-hp V6 gasoline engine provides impressive fuel economy with an estimated 30 miles per gallon on the highway. Celebrities such as Rachel Bilson, Jake Gyllenhaal, Eva Mendes, Julia Stiles, Matthew Rhys, Kirsten Dunst, Eva Mendes, Kelly Osbourne, Nicole Richie, Cameron Silver, Brittany Snow, Elijah Wood were transported in S400 Hybrids and other Mercedes-Benz vehicles.
As The Art of Elysium and the broad range of musicians, actors, photographers and numerous artists dedicate their time to inspire, Mercedes-Benz aimed to create an inspirational vehicle display for event guests entering the gala with the ultimate example of Mercedes-Benz heritage and innovation — a vintage 1956 300SL gullwing next to a 2011 SLS AMG gullwing.
In 2011, Mercedes-Benz celebrates 125 years of the automobile and its future. It was Carl Benz’s patent of the automobile that occurred around the same time as the invention of motion pictures. No one knew the impact that these inventions would have on society, but now more than a century later, Hollywood and Mercedes-Benz are synonymous with glamour and luxury. Both share a rich and inspirational history together – in front of the camera and behind the scenes.