Disneyland’s Autopia changing from gas to electric. Is Tomorowland Speedway next?

In a groundbreaking move towards sustainability, Disneyland’s iconic Autopia attraction is poised for a transformation from gas-powered engines to electric vehicles. The announcement, shared exclusively with The Los Angeles Times, comes after weeks of columnist Sammy Roth inquiring about the ride’s future.

The Disneyland Autopia opened on July 17, 1955 and allows drivers to go around a track with a center rail to guide the cars. Pressing the gas pedal makes the car go and the brakes are applied automatically when the driver releases the gas pedal.

The ride also deploys smoke and a gas smell that has been problematic for many Guests visiting the theme park. It’s the same issue many Guests visiting Magic Kingdom with the Tomorrowland Speedway, which seems very outdated. While the kids and nostalgic parents love the attraction, the smell in the area and flumes of smoke have also been a major point of contention.

But it looks as though there is some change coming to the Disneyland version. “Autopia has been a staple of Disneyland park since its opening in 1955, captivating generations of visitors, particularly young children experiencing the thrill of driving for the first time,” spokesperson Jessica Good in an email to the Los Angeles Times. “In alignment with the industry’s shift towards alternative fuel sources, we have devised a strategic roadmap to electrify this attraction, with plans to phase out gasoline engines in the coming years.”

“We are currently evaluating various options to facilitate this transition, including electric vehicles,” she added.

According to Roth, there was no confirmation that it would be a pure electric vehicle or a hybrid.

This would represent a significant change and might mean changes to the Tomorrowland Speedway – at least we can hope.