China’s Chery Conducts Crash Tests and Sparks Controversy Over Safety Claims
Simulates Collision of Three Vehicles
Despite Proving Safety, Questions Arise
Chinese automaker Chery is drawing attention for conducting its own crash tests to demonstrate the safety of its electric vehicles. As one of China’s top five auto brands, Chery is expanding its global presence by building electric vehicle factories in markets such as Vietnam and Argentina. This move comes as other Chinese automakers, including BYD and Zeekr, prepare to enter the South Korean market, increasing consumer choices. However, concerns about the safety and quality of Chinese vehicles remain a key issue the industry needs to address.
Testing Assumes U-Turn Scenario
Vehicles Collide at 60 km/h (37.3 mph) from Both Sides
Chery recently conducted a crash test using three electric cars in this situation, which has become a hot topic. Chery plans to release this video to prove the safety of its electric cars. In the video, three 2025 Exeed Sterra ES vehicles appear to recreate the crash.
The company released a video showcasing the test, where the vehicles are subjected to a simulated U-turn accident scenario. In the test, a stationary vehicle attempting a U-turn is hit simultaneously by two oncoming cars traveling at about 60 km/h (37.3 mph), colliding with the front and sides of the vehicle. One car impacts at a 30-degree angle, while the other hits directly from the side. This scenario was recreated using the 2025 Exeed Sterra ES models.
No Signs of Fire Detected
Critics Point Out Differences from Real-World Scenarios
The crash resulted in significant damage, but no signs of fire were detected, addressing one of the biggest concerns about electric vehicle safety: battery fires. Despite the force of the collision—equivalent to 35 tons (about 7,000 pounds)—all seven airbags deployed, and the vehicle automatically unlocked the doors to allow passengers to exit. The vehicle’s high-voltage system also shut down after the crash, preventing any further risk. However, consumer reactions have been mixed. Some questioned the test’s realism, noting that a moving car might behave differently in an actual situation than a stationary one. Additionally, the test involved two vehicles traveling at the same speed, which is unlikely in real-world collisions.
Doubts Cast on Self-Conducted Test Results
Calls for Caution Regarding Chinese Vehicles
Critics have also raised concerns about the validity of the results, as the tests were conducted by Chery rather than an independent authority like Euro NCAP. While some argue that the test’s outcome demonstrates the safety of Chery’s electric vehicles, particularly regarding chassis rigidity and battery safety, others remain cautious about fully trusting the results.
China has already distributed around 25 million electric vehicles and is known for its strict safety standards. Starting in March next year, all-electric and hybrid cars in the country must undergo annual safety inspections, including mandatory battery safety tests. Last year, models from other Chinese automakers, such as BYD’s Seal and Xpeng’s P7, received 5-star ratings from Euro NCAP, reflecting the growing safety standards of Chinese electric vehicles. As the competition in the electric vehicle market intensifies, companies like BYD are gearing up for a strong entry into markets like South Korea, where they are expected to face scrutiny over safety and quality.
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