EVwire brief: An out-of-control heavy-duty truck crashed into 13 vehicles in China, including a Tesla Model 3 that was hit three times. Five people were killed in the incident, and one person was seriously injured.
Despite severe damage to the vehicle, the Model 3 driver survived and was able to walk away unharmed. The owner later stated that the experience reinforced his confidence in Tesla’s safety.
A video of the incident and its aftermath was shared on X by Tesla owner Ray:
Context:
As can be seen in a video of the crash, which was posted on Chinese social media, a heavy-duty truck lost control and plowed through traffic at relatively high speed, colliding with numerous vehicles along its path.
The Tesla Model 3 was among those that were struck. Images of the crash’s aftermath showed that several cars were crushed and overturned by the impact.
The Model 3 engaged all of its airbags during the incident. The driver was later captured on video walking away from the accident, seemingly unharmed.
Another person, who seemed to be holding a child, was also walking with the Model 3’s driver. It is unclear if the person was also an occupant of the Tesla.
The Model 3’s cabin remained intact despite being hit three times
The Model 3’s driver (and an apparent passenger) walking away from the crash
The Tesla Model 3 driver’s response
In a social media post from Enyang District People's Hospital at Bazhong City, the Model 3’s driver shared his experience (translated using Google Translate).
“When the truck hit me for the third time today, besides fear, I was actually a little angry… Was it because I thought, ‘How dare such a small car withstand a heavy truck?!’ I really felt God had spared me after surviving the first two hits! Why the third? I hate it! I'm only 35 years old, I shouldn't die so young!”
The Tesla driver did, however, state that after this experience, his next car will definitely be another Tesla.
“Maybe Tesla doesn't want me to die either, after all, the more people die, the fewer people who buy their products. It seems Elon Musk is a shrewd businessman! The next one, whether it's a 3 or a Y, will definitely be a Performance!”
In a separate post, the Tesla driver confirmed that he was able to file a total loss insurance claim successfully. The Model 3 had also been driven 45,000 kilometers in less than a year.
Source: @Ray4Tesla on X
DIG DEEPER into the Tesla industry news with our dedicated TESLAWIRE page. And don’t forget to subscribe to our EV industry newsletter to join 14,000+ EV geeks.
