The one millionth visitor to Mercedes-Benz World can meet Lewis Hamilton

There they will experience an exhilarating “hot lap” around the Handling Circuits in an AMG, driven by one of the resident expert drivers, and will enjoy an exclusive meal in the Gullwing restaurant with incredible trackside views of the event. Once they’ve taken in the show, which will feature Lewis Hamilton driving the 2008 Vodafone McLaren Mercedes Grand Prix car, they will have plenty of opportunities for photographs and autographs as they meet the man himself.

For visitors who aren’t lucky enough to win the chance to meet Lewis Hamilton, Mercedes-Benz World will be offering all weekday AMG 1 hour Experiences for a special discounted price* until 31 December 2009 to celebrate the million visitors milestone.

Marking the one million milestone

Since opening in 2006, the UK’s largest automotive brand experience centre has welcomed enough visitors to fill the Royal Albert Hall a staggering 180 times. Over 100,000 guests have driven on the Handling Circuits, with nearly half of them under 17 years old, thanks to the centre’s Kids Driving Experience and the revolutionary Mercedes-Benz Driving Academy.

Meanwhile, outdoor events including performances by Sir Elton John, Leonard Cohen and the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra have also drawn sizeable crowds.

Mercedes-Benz World has proven a popular destination for both business and pleasure. Over 80,000 delegates have attended corporate events, and well over half a million cups of coffee have been served at the Gullwing Restaurant and Café 1886.

Commenting on the milestone celebration, Dermot Kelly, managing director Mercedes-Benz Cars, said: “This has been a truly outstanding year and we’d like to thank all of the visitors who have helped us reach our ‘one million’ milestone, with this incredible opportunity.

“Not only will the lucky one millionth visitor have the opportunity of a lifetime to meet Lewis Hamilton, but they will also sample the absolute best that Mercedes-Benz World has to offer its guests.”

Dermot concluded: “It’s really rewarding to know that one million people have enjoyed our brand experience. We are now looking forward to 2010 and bringing new events on board to build on our success; not to mention welcoming the next million visitors through our doors.”

Source: Mercedes-Benz