Chery Fengyun X3L's Stunt Attempt at Tianmen Mountain Fails

In a widely publicized stunt, Chery Automobiles’ Fengyun X3L SUV was unable to ascend the famed “Heaven’s Staircase” at Tianmen Mountain, China, leading to damage on the historical steps.

This incident unfolded on Wednesday as the SUV attempted to climb the 999-step staircase, rising 300 meters high, also known as the “Sky Ladder,” which leads to Tianmen Cave within Tianmen Mountain National Forest Park. The staircase, with its narrow steps measuring just 30 centimeters, features gradients exceeding 60 degrees in regions, presenting significant challenges for any vehicle.

Footage from the event shows the SUV struggling midway before sliding back and crashing into a guardrail, leaving a portion of the stairs damaged. Tourists at the scene reacted with surprise, and the vehicle remained stuck for almost two hours, though no injuries were reported.

Chery Responds with Apology

Following the event, Chery Automobiles issued a public apology, recognizing flaws in risk evaluation and planning. A metal shackle on the anchor point of the safety rope unexpectedly detached, causing the rope to entangle the SUV’s right rear wheel. This issue disrupted power transmission, ultimately resulting in the backward slide.

The company vowed to repair the impacted site, offer compensation, and improve safety measures for future tests. “We sincerely apologize to the public and the Tianmen Mountain Scenic Area for the damages incurred. This event has revealed our inadequate risk assessment and oversights in detail management during the test preparation and execution,” Chery remarked on its official social media platforms.

Historic Stunt Comparisons

This failed stunt serves as a stark contrast to Land Rover's successful ascent in 2018, when professional driver Tung Ho Pin navigated all 999 steps in a New Range Rover Sport in just 21 minutes and 47 seconds during the “Dragon Challenge” campaign. This achievement remains one of the most prestigious automotive stunts in China, emphasizing the extreme difficulty of such endeavors.

Officials of Tianmen Mountain had closed the staircase to public visitors on November 12 and 13 for the stunt, while allowing access to the summit via a mountain-elevator system. Chery’s failed attempt has reignited conversations concerning safety, risk evaluation, and the suitability of scenic public areas for extreme automotive tests.

As Chery prepares to repair the damaged staircase and reassess its testing protocols, this incident stands as a cautionary lesson for automotive manufacturers considering high-stakes stunts at historical or popular tourist destinations.