NEWS: Changes Announced for an Opening Day Disneyland Attraction

Buckle up, everyone!

MAJOR changes have been announced for an opening day Disneyland attraction, and although most of the time Disney fans can get a little…upset about changes at the Disney parks — we think this one will be a welcome one. Not only that, but we’re hopeful for what it means for other Disney rides!

It’s official — Disneyland is swapping out the gas-powered vehicles at the opening day Autopia attraction with new, electrified ones. Disney officials revealed the news to the Los Angeles Times.

Jessica Good, spokesperson for Disney, said, “Since opening with Disneyland park in 1955, Autopia has remained a guest-favorite most popular with young kids experiencing driving for the first time. As the industry moves toward alternative fuel sources, we have developed a roadmap to electrify this attraction and are evaluating technology that will enable us to convert from gas engines in the next few years.”

But, Disney still hasn’t confirmed whether or not this means fully electric vehicles or hybrids. Electric vehicles would likely make more sense, and would obviously be better for the environment.

Guests get set to ride the Autopia cars at Disneyland in 1955 … arguably Disney’s first trackless ride system.

Autopia opened with Disneyland in 1955 with Bob Gurr-designed ride vehicles and gave kids the chance to drive a “real” gas-powered car. But, if you’ve ever been anywhere near the attraction — you know that the smell can be a major headache.

Fans have been waiting for this change for quite some time, both for Disneyland and the ride’s Magic Kingdom counterpart, Tomorrowland Speedway. The two rides suffer the same stinky affliction.

And, if you’re worried about what Disney Legend Bob Gurr has to say about the change, well, he’s all for it.

He not only longs for an Autopia where people “don’t smell the fumes, don’t hear that racket of the little motor going putt-putt-putt,” but he would also like to see a greater vision for Tomorrowland with more stories about renewable energy, public transit, and other sustainable technologies. We think that sounds like a great idea, Bob!

Bob Gurr offers his insight during a redesign of Disneyland’s Autopia attraction which he first created in 1955. [The Walt Disney Company]

As for now, Disney hasn’t shared any plans on making similar changes to Tomorrowland Speedway, but we’re hopeful this announcement means good news is on the way.

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