
As Universal Orlando Resort continues its preparations for the highly anticipated opening of Epic Universe, a separate transportation provider has encountered an alarming issue.
Fire Erupts on MEARS MCO Electric Bus, Disrupting Universal Orlando Resort Transportation
A MEARS MCO electric bus, which operates transportation services for guests, reportedly caught fire last night outside the newly opened Stella Nova Resort. The incident, first reported on social media, has led to transportation delays and raised questions about electric bus safety. Late last night, X user @AnniesUniUpdate posted a series of photos showing what appeared to be a MEARS MCO electric bus on fire near the entrance of Stella Nova Resort.
The user warned guests to expect delays in reaching the hotel.
If you’re staying at Stella Nova tonight, do not expect to be able to get there very soon. A bus caught fire in front of the hotel. – @AnniesUniUpdate on X
If you’re staying at Stella Nova tonight, do not expect to be able to get there very soon. A bus caught fire in front of the hotel. pic.twitter.com/Xjy2YHRuYj
— Adventuring with Annie (@AnniesUniUpdate) February 3, 2025
“If you’re staying at Stella Nova tonight, do not expect to be able to get there very soon. A bus caught fire in front of the hotel,” @AnniesUniUpdate wrote.
While no official statements have been issued by Universal Orlando or local fire officials, eyewitness accounts and circulating images confirm that a fire did occur. The extent of the damage and the cause of the fire remain unknown at this time. Importantly, the incident did not involve Universal’s newly launched electric bus fleet, which was introduced to support increased guest transportation needs ahead of Epic Universe’s opening.
CityWalk Bus Operations Temporarily Suspended
Shortly after the fire, reports surfaced of transportation disruptions at Universal Orlando Resort. X user @Sami_Parks shared a photo from the CityWalk bus station, where dozens of guests were seen waiting for transportation amid halted bus operations.
If you’re staying at Stella Nova tonight, do not expect to be able to get there very soon. A bus caught fire in front of the hotel. – @AnniesUniUpdate on X
If you’re staying at Stella Nova tonight, do not expect to be able to get there very soon. A bus caught fire in front of the hotel. pic.twitter.com/Xjy2YHRuYj
— Adventuring with Annie (@AnniesUniUpdate) February 3, 2025
“Situation at CityWalk bus station. All Buses are Stopped operation except for Dockside & Surfside. Very long Waiting Line fir Stella Hôtel,” @Sami_Parks reported.
Though it is unclear if the fire directly caused the suspension of services, guests heading to hotels such as Stella Nova were left facing significant delays. MEARS MCO operates select bus routes within Universal Orlando, separate from Universal’s own electric bus system, which remains unaffected.
Safety Concerns Surround Electric Bus Usage
While electric buses are generally regarded as a sustainable and efficient alternative to traditional fuel-based transportation, incidents like this underscore the importance of safety measures and regular maintenance. With Universal’s expansion plans in full motion, ensuring reliable and secure transit options for guests is critical.
At this time, Universal has not indicated that this event will impact its own electric bus program. However, it is expected that both MEARS and Universal will conduct thorough inspections and evaluations to ensure guest safety and prevent similar occurrences in the future.
As the resort gears up for the 2025 opening of Epic Universe, maintaining efficient and safe transportation remains a top priority. Although Universal’s electric bus fleet was not involved in the fire, the incident has nonetheless raised concerns about the broader adoption of electric vehicle technology within major theme park resorts.
Have you been on one of the new Universal electric buses lately? What are your thoughts on them? Sound off in the comments below!