Disneyland: The Most Joyful Place on Earth Is Transitioning to Electricity

Autopia To Go Emission-Free Finally!

Back on Sunday, July 17, 1955, Disneyland was introduced to the world. It was on July 18 that my family (consisting of my mom, dad, my older sister, and me) visited the park for the first time. While I have been driving electric cars for quite some time now, the vehicles at Autopia still operate with their gasoline engines, spreading harmful emissions in the air. Disney has now decided to catch up with the evolving world outside—eventually.

The Walt Disney Company is presently four years into its 2030 Environmental Goals initiative, focusing on water, waste, materials, sustainable design, and, of particular interest to Clean Fleet Report, greenhouse gas emissions, which are crucial when it comes to one of the oldest attractions at the park.

One of Disneyland’s original attractions, Autopia, is slated for a transformation where the cars on the ride will transition from using a 270cc, 8.5 horsepower Honda gasoline engine, with a top speed of 6.5 mph, to some form of electrification. While Disneyland hasn’t specified whether the Autopia cars will be hybrids or fully electric, the assumption is that they will operate on battery electric power, making this beloved attraction emission-free. This change will also ensure a quieter ride!

Disneyland globally has previously seen the transition—the Autopia cars at Hong Kong Disneyland have been electric-powered since 2006, merely a year post the park’s grand opening. However, the ride ceased operations in 2016 to make way for a new adventure, Marvel’s Avengers Quinjet Experience.

Honda’s Future Steps?

One can anticipate Honda playing a significant role in the transformation of Autopia cars to more sustainable options, drawing upon the corporation’s extensive expertise in manufacturing battery electric, hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles.

The vehicles received a complete overhaul back in 2000, with three variants inspired by a Volkswagen Beetle convertible, a sports car, and an off-roader. Upon Honda becoming the ride’s sponsor in 2016, the cars underwent a makeover, being repainted in Honda automotive colors, fitted with new tires, new engines, and even sporting a Honda emblem on the hood.

Autopia stands as the only remaining original Tomorrowland attraction in full operation since the park’s establishment. Like many young children, Autopia marked my first “driving” experience. The gas pedal, doubling as the brake upon release and a somewhat operational steering wheel, provided a sense of mimicking mom and dad’s actions, even though the cars were guided to stay on track. Regardless, it was exhilarating!

Embracing Electric Power

The transition to electric vehicles will eliminate the intake of gas fumes, a relief especially during Anaheim’s scorching summer days, making the Autopia ride more pleasant for visitors.

The transition of Autopia cars isn’t the only move towards zero or low-emission transportation within the park. Currently, 14% of the resort’s vehicles have transitioned to zero-emission, with Autopia joining these other eco-friendly options, treading lightly on the environment.

• The Parking Lot Trams are powered by compressed natural gas (CNG), displacing 56,000 gallons of diesel annually. For most Disneyland visitors, the tram signifies their initial journey, an essential component in enhancing the visit’s convenience.

• The Disneyland Monorail, encircling the park in a 2.5-mile loop, has remained emission-free since its inception in 1959. Its design seamlessly blends retro and futuristic elements, maintaining its original look.

• The Disneyland Railroad and Mark Twain Riverboat were switched to biodiesel derived from recycled cooking oil back in 2009. Through this shift, approximately 200,000 gallons of petroleum-based diesel are saved annually.

• The Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage underwent significant renovations in 2007. Upon its reopening in 2008, the submarines were run on electricity, replacing the previous diesel engines.

During your next visit to Disneyland, take a moment to acknowledge this usually unseen and unappreciated aspect of the park’s operations. These vehicles are an essential element in ensuring an enjoyable visit. As they become more environment-friendly, everyone will benefit from the cleaner air.

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