Chinese automaker Chery recently showcased the safety prowess of its new Exeed Sterra ES through a remarkable crash test. In this test, three real electric cars were put to the test to simulate a U-turn accident scenario. The EV was struck by two other vehicles traveling at a speed of 60 km/h from opposite directions, demonstrating the strength and integrity of the vehicle.

Chery's Exeed Sterra ES Proves Safety in Triple Crash Test

Crash Test Setup and Scenario

The crash test aimed to replicate a real-world U-turn accident. One key aspect was that a static car was attempting a U-turn and was then hit from both sides by two moving vehicles. While this setup has its limitations compared to an actual accident, it still provided valuable insights. Two white Sterra ES EVs, each traveling at 60 km/h, struck the red vehicle at different angles. One car hit the front-right corner at a 30-degree angle, while the other directly impacted the passenger compartment from 180 degrees. Despite the challenging nature of the crash, the footage and photos suggest that the Exeed Sterra ES maintained a high level of protection for its occupants.During the test, the pillars withstood the impact, all seven airbags deployed as expected, and the doors automatically unlocked. The emergency call function was also activated, adding an extra layer of safety. Crucially, the battery pack showed no signs of leaks, smoke, or fire, and the high-voltage system shut down automatically, as it should in the event of a crash.

The Need for Independent Validation

While Chery's self-conducted crash test is impressive, there is always the question of how the Exeed Sterra ES would perform under the more stringent scrutiny of third-party evaluations. EuroNCAP and IIHS set rigorous standards, and it's one thing to conduct internal tests but another to meet those industry-wide benchmarks.It's also important to note that keeping one car stationary in the crash test affects realism by concentrating impact forces on the moving vehicles. In a real-world U-turn accident, all vehicles would be in motion, dissipating force differently. This isolation of impacts in the test may exaggerate their severity and not fully capture how the vehicles would behave in a dynamic, unpredictable real-world scenario.

About the Exeed Sterra ES

The Exeed Sterra ES was first launched in 2023 and shares its platform with the Huawei-backed Luxeed S7. It competes in the electric sedan market, aiming to dethrone the Tesla Model 3. It comes with both RWD and AWD configurations and offers an impressive driving range of up to 905 km on a full charge thanks to its large 97.7 kWh battery pack. For the 2025 model year, Chery has introduced several updates, including reinforced body and chassis elements, further enhancing its safety credentials.Chinese cars have made significant strides in safety, as evidenced by their performance in independent crash tests. Many EVs from Chinese automakers have earned five-star ratings in EuroNCAP, even with the organization's stricter testing protocols. This growing safety standard among Chinese manufacturers indicates a broader shift, with more models becoming increasingly competitive in global markets.Thanos Pappas, a product design engineer by trade, has been actively involved in automotive journalism, bringing his expertise to provide in-depth insights into these safety tests and the vehicles involved.

The colorful and fully functional EV is set to become The Wiggles' new stage ride, adding a touch of fun and engineering to their performances. Toyota Australia's collaboration with The Wiggles has resulted in a one-of-a-kind vehicle that combines off-road heritage with playful design.

Toyota's Electric Ute Takes the Stage with The Wiggles

Design and Styling

The Big Red Ute showcases Land Cruiser-inspired styling with its chunky tires and vibrant livery. The front end draws from the tough design of the Toyota Cruiser J70, featuring LED headlights that can display various patterns. Muscular fenders and exposed wheels give it an off-road character, while the 3,120 mm length keeps it compact for the stage. The 12-inch Turbofan wheels with a rainbow theme add to its visual appeal.

The exposed cabin can accommodate four passengers, each with their own seatbelt attached to the oversized bull bar. An integrated bubble machine at the rear produces 6,000 bubbles per minute, captivating toddlers during performances.

This one-off vehicle isn't just a showpiece; it's a fully functional EV powered by a 48V electric powertrain, independent coil spring suspension, and drum brakes. Despite its toy-like appearance, it's built to handle the stage and provide a unique experience.

Performance and Functionality

With a top speed limited to 20 km/h (12 mph), this "ute" is designed specifically for the music stage. It made its debut on December 7 when The Wiggles performed in Melbourne and will accompany the band on their Australian and global tour dates.

The 48V electric powertrain ensures smooth and quiet operation, while the independent coil spring suspension provides a comfortable ride. The drum brakes offer reliable stopping power, ensuring the safety of the performers and the audience.

Toyota's Big Red Ute is a testament to the company's ability to combine creativity and functionality. It's not just a vehicle; it's a part of The Wiggles' stage show, bringing joy and entertainment to children around the world.