China's big fail exposed

A Chinese brand’s attempt to copy a viral 4WD stunt has gone wrong. 

Chinese carmaker Chery has been forced to apologise after one of its cars suffered an embarrassing skid down an iconic 1700-year-old landmark. 

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Land Rover’s attempt took just under 23 minutes and garnered significant media attention, including more than seven million views on YouTube. 

With Chinese brands eager to snatch market share from established rivals across the car industry, bettering or even matching this impressive feat could have represented a watershed moment. 

When Chery’s Fengyun X3L, an aspiring Range Rover rival, began the climb it carried with it the potential to rock the industry by showcasing world class four-wheel driving capabilities. 

On the small SUV’s scampering sprint up the stairs, on one staircase, it skidded right then left, before rolling back down and taking out part of the supporting fence. 

It was an incident that could have had catastrophic consequences given the steep stair incline of 45 degrees and sheer mountain drop, with onlookers watching from below.

Chery issued an apology through a statement published in the Chinese media, according to AutoNews.  

“The outcome has exposed our insufficient assessment of potential risks and lapses in detail control during the planning and execution of this test,” Chery said. 

“In particular, we deeply reflect on the public concerns caused by choosing to conduct the test in a public scenic area.”

The news comes following an increased Australian market share, with one in five cars sold in October 2025 being Chinese. 

Chery’s Tiggo 4 Pro, was one of the big sellers for this period, having sold nearly 2000 examples, compared to less than 400 for this time last year. 

Chinese brands’ ambitions continue to grow. BYD Australia’s Chief Operating Officer Stephen Collins, said the brand is targeting a place “around top three” in Australia by the end of next year. 

Chery has substantial plans in Australia, planning the introduction of several new cars to the market, but not the Fengyun X3L.

It will bring across its dual-cab hybrid ute in the second half of next year.