Probe launched after pickup truck tent death in China

Authorities are investigating the death of a pickup truck owner in Chengdu who was reportedly strangled by an electric tent installed on the vehicle, according to statements Wednesday from both the truck manufacturer, Great Wall Motor, and the tent maker, Wild Land.

Great Wall Motor said in a statement on social media platform Sina Weibo that a Chengdu car owner using a Wild Land car roof tent on their Poer model pickup truck died in an accident on May 11. The company expressed condolences to the family and said it is closely monitoring the investigation. Great Wall Motor added it will fully assist the tent brand during the investigation, actively cooperate with authorities, and provide all necessary support to the family.

Wild Land also issued a statement Wednesday offering condolences and stating their team arrived at the scene on the day of the accident. They said they are cooperating with all parties in the investigation and, based on preliminary information, the accident occurred when the user entered the tent while it was folding. The company pledged continued cooperation with authorities and support for the family.

According to bjnews.com.cn, a friend of the victim surnamed Wang said the car tent was installed at a dealership and the victim was examining the tent after having it checked there earlier that day due to malfunctions. The friend claims the victim's head became stuck in a metal rod that moves with the tent during unfolding. Another rescuer surnamed Yang said the tent's remote control malfunctioned during the rescue attempt.

The Wild Land car roof tent, according to its online store description, is electrically raised and lowered with a remote control. It features a double-X structured arm design and an electric lift that can reach a height of 1.5 meters.