More information is revealed about one of the most exciting projects currently taking shape in Walt Disney World.
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As part of EPCOT’s massive transformation, which began several years ago, Disney revealed that the iconic thrill ride Test Track would be closing and receiving a complete makeover. During this overhaul, EPCOT was split into four separate neighborhoods: World Celebration, World Discovery, World Showcase, and World Nature, with Test Track being located in World Discovery.
As part of the sweeping changes to the rest of the theme park, the ride officially closed for a major retooling earlier this year. Fans have been eagerly waiting for more information regarding the project to be revealed, and though Disney has kept its cards close to the vest, a new permit signals some big changes are in store for Test Track.
Test Track At EPCOT
Consistently ranking as one of the most popular attractions at EPCOT, Test Track made a name for itself thanks to its speed and unique ride system. Officially opening on March 17, 1999, Test Track ushered in a new age for EPCOT and the Walt Disney World Resort as a whole.
The ride replaced EPCOT’s classic World of Motion attraction, which had become a classic over the years. Test Track was originally sponsored by General Motors and focused on the automotive industry, specifically the safety testing procedures new concept cars endure before hitting the market.
Guests became their own crash test dummies, strapping into a concept car and facing a wide range of safety tests. However, Test Track closed in 2012 and reopened that same year as Test Track 2.0. This iteration of Test Track saw the ride outfitted with lights and effects evocative of Disney’s TRON franchise, propelling guests into a digital world.
While utilizing the exact same track layout, Test Track 2.0 disappointed some with its effects and visuals, with some guests preferring the rugged look and feel of the original version of the ride. Disney itself was seemingly not satisfied with Test Track 2.0, announcing that the version of the ride would also be closing and the company would return to the drawing board for the third time.
Test Track 2.0 closed permanently in June 2024, and work is well underway on the new ride. As guests await Test Track 3.0, new information has come to light, revealing a few details about the new attraction.
Disney Files Permit For Test Track
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Per Wdwmagic, Disney has filed a permit with Spitz, a vendor that has previously worked with Disney on other attractions like Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind. The company provides tech and support for projection dome screens and giant screen cinemas.
This roller coaster, which is also located in EPCOT, features several large-scale projections, something Spitz is known for.
The new permit is quite vague, but given Disney and Spitz’s past relationship, it’s clear both companies have high ambitions for the next iteration of Test Track.
In the weeks since its closure, multiple parts of Test Track’s building have been dismantled and demolished, and the front marquee sign has recently been removed as well.
Rip test track marquee
Rip test track marquee pic.twitter.com/mLmEMRzkZb
— Zach Halteman 🚀🌟🌐 (@zhalteman) July 31, 2024
This permit is just one of several Disney has filed for Test Track over the last few weeks.
Test Track’s original closure permit detailed a 12-month expiration date, which is the default length for projects such as this one. This date has yet to be extended, suggesting that Disney may intend to complete the project within a year.
Are you excited to ride Disney’s new Test Track? What’s your favorite ride at EPCOT?
