Disneyland in California has started testing a fully electric Autopia ride vehicle prototype as part of Disney's commitment to reaching net zero emissions by 2030.
The park announced plans to convert its Autopia ride vehicles from gas engines to electric in 2024. The attraction has used gas-powered cars since it debuted at Disneyland in 1955.
The Orange County Register reports that Disneyland has now started working on the design, engineering and testing of an electric Autopia ride vehicle prototype, according to resort officials.
Disneyland reducing carbon footprint
Also, Disneyland has reached an agreement with the California Air Resources Board to retire the current gas engines in early 2027, according to officials.
The Autopia project comes under Disney's environmental goals for 2030, which includes achieving net zero emissions. Disneyland is also working to electrify its fleet of more than 400 vehicles.
Disneyland spokesperson Jessica Good told the Los Angeles Times in 2024: "Since opening with Disneyland park in 1955, Autopia has remained a guest-favorite, most popular with young kids experiencing driving for the first time."
Autopia at Disneyland Paris
She added: "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."
According to the Orange County Register, Disneyland will share more information soon on its updates to the Autopia attraction, located in the park's Tomorrowland.
Autopia attractions are currently operated at Disneyland and Disneyland Paris, with a similar version called the Tomorrowland Speedway on offer at Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World.
Images courtesy of Disney
