Chery fails to replicate Range Rover’s 999-step stair climb in viral video fail

A dramatic stunt attempt by Chinese carmaker Chery has gone viral after its Fulwin X3L SUV failed to climb the 999 steps to Heaven’s Gate — the same staircase famously conquered by a Range Rover Sport in 2018.

The incident took place at Tianmen Mountain in China, where the brand sought to recreate Land Rover’s celebrated promotional feat. Instead, footage shows the Fulwin X3L losing traction near the top of one of the steep stairways before sliding backwards, bouncing off a landing, and crashing into the stone guardrail. Several rail sections and pylons were damaged in the process.

Chery has since issued an apology and promised to repair the historic structure, according to reports from local outlet NFNews.com.

The Fulwin X3L, a range-extender plug-in hybrid launched earlier this year, didn’t appear to lack power on paper. It uses a dual-motor AWD system producing 422hp (315kW) and 504Nm — but even those figures weren’t enough to get the SUV to the top of the 45-degree staircase, which stretches more than 200 metres vertically.

In contrast, the Range Rover Sport remains the only vehicle known to have successfully climbed all 999 steps to the natural stone arch. That 2018 stunt was heavily controlled and used a specially prepped vehicle, but it set a benchmark that other brands have clearly been eager to match.

Chery claims the failed attempt wasn’t due to a lack of power or traction, but rather a safety-equipment malfunction. The brand says a shackle securing the safety rope unexpectedly detached, allowing the rope to wrap around the right wheel and compromise the climb.

Despite the embarrassing outcome, Chery reportedly plans to attempt the feat again — this time with improved all-terrain tyres, revised torque management, and a new pitch-angle monitor for the SUV’s adaptive suspension.

Whether the second go will redeem the brand — or become another viral spectacle — remains to be seen.