SUV Stunt Gone Wrong: China Disaster Explained
- Chery Automobile learned a harsh lesson about the limits of marketing stunts and the enduring legacy of a previous feat: attempting to replicate Land Rover's 2018 climb of...
- In 2018, Land Rover, with Chinese racing driver Ho-Pin Tung at the wheel, successfully navigated a Range Rover Sport up the 999 steps of the Tianmen mountain Stairway...
- Chery's attempt to match this achievement with the Fulwin X3L, a compact SUV, proved unsuccessful.
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Chery Fulwin X3L’s Tianmen mountain Stair Challenge Ends in Failure
Published November 17, 2025, at 17:58:44 PST
Chery Automobile learned a harsh lesson about the limits of marketing stunts and the enduring legacy of a previous feat: attempting to replicate Land Rover’s 2018 climb of the tianmen Mountain “stairway to Heaven” with their Fulwin X3L resulted in failure, as reported by CarNews China.
In 2018, Land Rover, with Chinese racing driver Ho-Pin Tung at the wheel, successfully navigated a Range Rover Sport up the 999 steps of the Tianmen mountain Stairway to Heaven. This ascent, tackling inclines of 45 to 60 degrees, was a visually stunning presentation of vehicle capability and driver skill. The stunt captured global attention and became a benchmark for automotive prowess.
Chery’s attempt to match this achievement with the Fulwin X3L, a compact SUV, proved unsuccessful. Details surrounding the exact point of failure are still emerging, but reports indicate the vehicle struggled to maintain traction and ultimately coudl not complete the climb. The incident underscores the important engineering differences between the Range Rover Sport, designed with off-road performance in mind, and the Fulwin X3L, which is geared towards urban driving.
The Tianmen Mountain Stairway to Heaven: A Unique Challenge
The Tianmen Mountain Stairway to Heaven, also known as the 999 Steps, is a challenging ascent carved into the mountainside. Located within the Zhangjiajie National Forest Park in Hunan Province, China, the staircase is a popular tourist attraction, but its steep gradient and uneven surface present a formidable obstacle for vehicles. The steps vary in height and width, adding to the difficulty.
| Feature | Tianmen Mountain Stairway | Range Rover Sport (2018) | Chery Fulwin X3L (2023) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Steps | 999 | 999 (completed) | 999 (failed) |
| Average Incline | 45-60 degrees | 45-60 degrees | 45-60 degrees |
| Vehicle Type | N/A | Luxury SUV (Off-Road Focused) | Compact SUV (Urban Focused) |
| Outcome | N/A | Successful Ascent | Failed Ascent |
Land Rover’s 2018 Success: A Detailed Look
Land Rover’s 2018 stunt wasn’t simply a matter of brute force. the Range Rover Sport was modified with specialized tires and a reinforced suspension to handle the extreme conditions. ho-Pin Tung, a seasoned racing driver, expertly navigated the staircase, utilizing precise throttle control and careful steering. The ascent was meticulously planned and executed, with a support team ensuring safety and providing assistance. Land Rover’s official news release details the planning and execution of the climb.