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Special Effect Turned off on Disney’s New Test Track After Car Crashes, Injuring Four Guests

Test Track 3.0 EPCOT experienced an unexpected setback on June 30, when a crash during a cast member preview injured four guests. The incident led to the temporary removal of one of the Walt Disney World Resort ride’s special effects. According to reports, the crash occurred when a Test Track ride vehicle collided with foam doors that were supposed to fling open as the car accelerated towards them. Unfortunately, the doors failed to open in time, resulting in the collision.

Test Track 3.0, the attraction’s third reimagining, opened for Disney cast member previews last month. The attraction has received positive feedback for bringing back much of the original nostalgia of the ride, despite the removal of the interactive car design stations. Guests who have experienced the updated version of Test Track have reported that the ride retains much of the magic of the past, including the familiar pine scent and updated futuristic vehicle designs. Additionally, the attraction has returned to its original sponsor, General Motors (GM), a change many Disney Parks fans appreciated.

However, the excitement surrounding the new version of Test Track was overshadowed by the crash on June 30. According to BlogMickey, the foam doors, which are intended to open when the ride vehicles approach them, malfunctioned. The ride vehicle struck the doors, injuring four guests who were treated on the scene.

The moment the doors are supposed to open on Test Track 3.0
Credit: Disney

Fortunately, the foam doors were designed to break away upon impact, which prevented more severe injuries. No one was hospitalized, and the riders involved in the incident received medical attention but were not seriously harmed.

The foam doors have been removed from the attraction, although it’s unclear when or if they will be reinstated. The doors are designed to enhance the thrill of the ride by keeping the space dark until the last moment, creating suspense as the vehicles rush towards them. Walt Disney World Resort may adjust the special effect’s timing to prevent future collisions. However, no official statement has been made about a potential fix.

People walk near the Test Track attraction entrance at Epcot, featuring a large sign with the Chevrolet logo and a blue car model above it under a metal canopy on a wet day.
Credit: MyFrozenLife Flickr

Despite the setback, the Test Track 3.0 previews continued on July 1, with Disney cast members continuing to enjoy the new version of the attraction. The ride is set to open to the public on July 22, 2025, with additional previews for Annual Passholders beginning on July 13.

Have you ever attended a new attraction preview at Magic Kingdom Park, EPCOT, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, or Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park? Share your story with Disney Dining in the comments! 

Jess Colopy

Jess Colopy is a Disney College Program alum and kid-at-heart. When she’s not furiously typing in a coffee shop, you can find her on the hunt for the newest Stitch pin.

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