Chery Fulwin X3L: Some events don’t just make news; they stir a wide range of emotions within a person. A few days ago, a video surfaced of a Chery Fulwin X3L SUV climbing China’s famous 999 steps, known as “Heaven’s Gate.” People were expecting the SUV to perform as well as the Range Rover Sport did in 2018. But this time, the result was something else.
Chery Fulwin X3L: An Attempt That Leaves Hearts Bound
Chery’s Fulwin X3L, a range-extender plug-in hybrid SUV, was launched in China this year. It features an all-wheel-drive setup that delivers 422 horsepower and 372 pound-feet of torque. This power seems substantial on paper, but the steep and challenging climb of the 999 steps posed a real challenge.
The video clearly shows that the SUV initially exhibits strength, but as it approaches the top, its balance begins to deteriorate. Within moments, it begins sliding backwards and crashes into a wall, causing ancient stone pillars to crumble. This spectacle was as thrilling as it was terrifying for the onlookers.
Memories of 2018 and Disappointments of 2025
This was the same stunt that the Range Rover Sport had brilliantly accomplished in 2018. It successfully climbed 999 stairs, making headlines worldwide. Perhaps this success inspired Chery, but reaching the destination wasn’t easy.
Things became even more complicated when Chery revealed that the actual problem was the sudden breakage of the shackle attached to the anchor point of the safety rope, rather than the SUV itself. After the rope broke, it became entangled in the right wheel, and the SUV lost control.
Admitting Mistake and Ready to Try Again
Following the incident, Chery publicly apologized and promised to repair the broken part. But the company is in no mood to back down. According to reports, Chery is preparing to attempt this challenge again. This time, the SUV plans to be equipped with improved all-terrain tires, revised torque distribution software, and a new pitch-angle monitor for the adaptive suspension.
Chery Fulwin X3L vs Land Rover pic.twitter.com/GdBvR2CTme
— March (@MarchUnofficial) November 14, 2025
In a way, this failed attempt hasn’t weakened Chery’s confidence, but rather, it has strengthened its desire to prove itself again.
Chery Fulwin X3L Overview Table
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Incident | Chery Fulwin X3L attempted to climb the 999 steps at China’s Heaven’s Gate |
| Location | Tianmen Mountain, China |
| Outcome | The SUV lost traction near the upper section and slid backward, hitting the wall |
| Damage | Ancient stone pillars and guardrail were damaged |
| Cause | Safety rope shackle detached, and the rope got tangled in the right wheel |
| SUV Details | Fulwin X3L, range-extender PHEV, 422 HP, AWD |
| Inspiration | The 2018 successful climb by the Range Rover Sport |
| Company Response | Chery apologized and promised to repair the damaged structure |
| Next Step | Chery is preparing for another attempt with better tires, improved torque control, and a new suspension pitch-angle monitor |
F&Q
Q: Was the Chery Fulwin X3L climbing completely on its own?
No, the SUV was attached to a safety rope, but the accident occurred when the rope anchor broke.
Q: Is climbing 999 stairs very difficult?
Yes, the stairs are at a steep angle of approximately 45 degrees, and only the Range Rover Sport has successfully climbed them so far.
Q: Will Chery attempt this stunt again?
According to reports, yes. The company may try again with better preparation.
Q: Was anyone injured in this incident?
According to available information, no injuries have been reported.
Disclaimer: This article has been compiled based on available information. The veracity of any incident, claim, or technical details depends on the relevant official sources.
