
As Universal Orlando Resort prepares for the grand opening of its highly anticipated Epic Universe theme park, a transportation incident unrelated to Universal’s own fleet has raised concerns.
MEARS MCO Electric Bus Fire Causes Major Transportation Disruptions at Universal Orlando
A MEARS MCO electric bus reportedly caught fire near the entrance of the newly opened Stella Nova Resort, leading to significant travel delays for guests. While no official statements have been released, images and eyewitness accounts circulating on social media confirm the incident. The first reports of the fire surfaced on X, where user @AnniesUniUpdate shared photos from a distance showing a bus engulfed in flames near Stella Nova Resort’s entrance.
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 posted.
At this time, it remains unclear what caused the fire or whether any injuries were sustained. However, it is important to note that the affected vehicle was not one of Universal Orlando’s recently launched electric buses. Instead, the incident involved a MEARS MCO-operated vehicle, which is part of an independent transportation network servicing various locations across Orlando.
Following the fire, transportation delays rippled across Universal Orlando Resort. X user @Sami_Parks posted an image showing long lines forming at the CityWalk bus station as guests awaited transportation.
“Situation at CityWalk bus station. All Buses are Stopped operation except for Dockside & Surfside. Very long Waiting Line fir Stella Hôtel,” @Sami_Parks reported.
Situation at City Walk bus Station. All Buses are Stopped operation except for Dockside & Surfside. Very long Waiting Line fir Stella Hôtel. – @Sami_Parks on X
Situation at City Walk bus Station.
All Buses are Stopped operation except for Dockside & Surfside. Very long Waiting Line fir Stella Hôtel. pic.twitter.com/P6ae4Yqqzb
— Sami_Parks 🎢 (@Sami_Parks) February 3, 2025
Although it is unknown if the fire directly impacted the bus service suspension, guests staying at Universal’s hotels—particularly Stella Nova Resort—experienced long wait times and limited transportation options. MEARS MCO, which operates select routes for Universal guests, has yet to release a statement regarding the incident.
CityWalk Bus Operations Temporarily Suspended
The rise of electric vehicle technology has introduced a more sustainable way of managing large-scale transportation. However, as seen in this recent incident, ensuring rigorous safety protocols and regular maintenance checks remains vital. While Universal’s own electric bus fleet remains operational and unaffected, the fire involving a MEARS MCO bus raises broader concerns about electric vehicle reliability in high-traffic tourism areas.
For visitors at Universal Orlando, safety is always the highest priority. Guests are encouraged to remain aware of their surroundings and follow any safety instructions provided by Universal team members in the event of an emergency.
What’s Next for Universal Orlando’s Transportation System?
As Epic Universe’s grand opening approaches in 2025, Universal will continue to refine its transportation network to accommodate the influx of visitors. Though Universal’s newly introduced electric buses were not involved in this incident, the resort will likely continue monitoring and evaluating all aspects of guest transportation to ensure safety and efficiency.
Have you been on one of the new Universal electric buses lately? What are your thoughts on them? Sound off in the comments below!