Chinese EV Maker Voyah Recreates Mercedes Controversial Tunnel Stunt
The Voyah Freezer SUV performed a similar car-in-tunnel stunt that drew criticism when Mercedes ran a comparable ad in Germany.
Chinese EV brand Voyah has recreated a controversial advertising stunt first performed by Mercedes-Benz, driving one of its electric SUVs through a tunnel loop in what appears to be a direct homage—or imitation—of the German automaker's polarizing campaign.
What Happened
Voyah, a premium brand owned by Chinese state-owned automaker Dongfeng Motor Corporation, released video footage showing their Freezer large SUV navigating through a circular tunnel structure. The stunt closely mirrors an advertisement Mercedes ran in Germany featuring its CLA sedan doing essentially the same maneuver—a car driving through what appears to be a solid concrete ring rotated on its side.
Why It Matters
The original Mercedes ad drew significant backlash when it debuted, with some viewers questioning whether the footage was doctored or if the stunt was genuinely performed. The controversy centered on safety concerns and whether the advertisement was misleading about the capabilities of the vehicle shown. Voyah's decision to recreate this exact stunt positions its Freezer SUV against a well-known Mercedes campaign, though it also invites comparisons that may cut both ways for the Chinese brand.
The Bottom Line
Voyah joins a growing list of Chinese automakers targeting Western markets with premium electric vehicles. Whether this high-profile stunt translates into meaningful sales interest remains to be seen, but the choice to directly reference one of automotive advertising's most controversial moments signals ambition—if not always good judgment—in positioning the Voyah brand globally.
