Chery Fengyun 3XL Failed Attempt to Climb Tianmen Mountain's Heaven’s Staircase

In a dramatic and widely observed stunt attempt, Chery Automobiles’ new SUV, the Fengyun X3L, failed to climb the iconic “Heaven’s Staircase” at Tianmen Mountain, China, resulting in damage to a section of the historic staircase.

The incident occurred on Wednesday when the SUV tried to ascend the 999-step, 300-meter-high staircase, also referred to as the “Sky Ladder,” which leads to the renowned Tianmen Cave in Tianmen Mountain National Forest Park. The staircase features narrow steps measuring only 30 centimeters in width, with gradients exceeding 60 degrees in several areas, making it one of the most challenging climbs for any vehicle.

Footage captured during the stunt shows the SUV struggling midway up the steps before sliding backward and crashing into a guardrail, causing partial damage. Tourists present at the scene reportedly screamed in surprise, and the vehicle remained stuck on the staircase for nearly two hours. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.

Chery Issues Apology and Explains Incident

Following the incident, Chery Automobiles issued a public apology, acknowledging the shortcomings in risk assessment and planning. According to the company, a metal shackle on the safety rope’s anchor point unexpectedly detached, causing the rope to wrap around the SUV’s right rear wheel. This obstruction affected power transmission, ultimately leading to the vehicle’s backward slide.

The company pledged to restore the damaged site, provide compensation, and enhance safety protocols for future testing. “We sincerely apologise to the public and Tianmen Mountain Scenic Area for the damage caused. The outcome has exposed our insufficient assessment of potential risks and lapses in detail control during the planning and execution of this test,” Chery stated on its official social media account.

A Stunt with a History

Chery’s failed attempt was reminiscent of a successful climb executed by Land Rover in 2018, when professional driver Tung Ho Pin scaled all 999 steps in a New Range Rover Sport in just 21 minutes and 47 seconds as part of the “Dragon Challenge” campaign. That achievement remains one of the most celebrated automotive stunts in China, highlighting the extreme difficulty of such ascents.

Tianmen Mountain officials had closed the staircase to visitors on November 12 and 13 for the stunt, although tourists could still access the summit via a mountain-penetrating elevator. Chery’s stunt has sparked discussions on safety, risk assessment, and the choice of public scenic areas for extreme automotive tests.

As Chery commits to repairing the damaged staircase and reviewing its testing protocols, the incident serves as a cautionary tale for automotive manufacturers attempting high-profile stunts at historic or heavily trafficked tourist locations.