Chery, the Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer, recently conducted a unique three-car crash test to demonstrate the safety of its Exeed Sterra ES electric sedan. This unusual test aimed to simulate a scenario where a vehicle attempting a U-turn is struck by two other vehicles coming from opposite directions.
Key Details of the Crash Test:
Test Scenario:
The crash test was designed to replicate a specific situation where a stationary vehicle makes a U-turn and is simultaneously hit by two cars traveling at approximately 60 km/h (37 mph) from both sides. One vehicle impacted at a 30-degree angle, while the other struck directly from the side.
Execution:
The test involved three actual Exeed Sterra ES vehicles rather than crash test dummies or trolleys, providing a more realistic simulation. The event was conducted in front of an audience, including media representatives, to showcase Chery's confidence in its vehicle's safety features.
Safety Performance:
Following the impacts, the Exeed Sterra ES demonstrated impressive safety features:
- All seven airbags deployed correctly.
- The vehicle's structure remained intact, with no signs of fire or battery leakage.
- The high-voltage system automatically shut down post-collision to prevent further hazards.
- Emergency doors unlocked automatically for potential evacuation.
Public Reaction:
While the test showcased the vehicle's robustness, it has drawn mixed reactions regarding its realism. Critics pointed out that in real-world scenarios, vehicles are rarely stationary during such collisions, and the assumption that both impacting vehicles travel at identical speeds is unrealistic.
Industry Context:
This self-conducted test by Chery raises questions about the reliability of results when not verified by independent agencies like Euro NCAP or IIHS. However, it reflects Chery's efforts to bolster consumer confidence in its electric vehicles as it expands into international markets.
Chery's three-way crash test serves as an eye-catching demonstration of its commitment to safety in electric vehicles.
While it effectively highlights the Exeed Sterra ES's capabilities, further independent testing will be essential to validate these claims and ensure consumer trust in the brand’s safety standards as it competes in the global market.
