Disneyland is set to replace gas-powered engines in the Autopia ride cars with electric versions by early next year. This change is mandated by California’s stringent emissions regulations, as reported by the Orange County Register. The park must comply with these regulations by February 2027 to avoid closing the attraction.
Autopia, part of Disneyland’s original lineup when the park opened in July 1955, remains a staple in Tomorrowland. Since 2023, Honda, the sponsor of the ride, did not certify the ride’s engines due to an administration error, according to MouseChat website reports.
“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,” Disney said in 2024.
Following this oversight, Disney contacted the California Air Resources Board, which issued a violation in 2024. This resulted in Disney paying a $56,250 fine and committing to modify the ride.
Disney stated that the administrative error did not impact the environment. The company plans to convert the vehicles to electric by the following year, reflecting an industry-wide shift toward alternative fuel sources. Disney Imagineers are currently engaged in designing and engineering these new electric ride vehicles.
While the ride vehicles follow a guided track, riders can adjust their speed, which can reach about 6 mph. The exact dates for the ride’s closure and refurbishment remain unspecified.
Fox News Digital has contacted Disneyland for additional comments on the situation.
