For over two decades, Test Track at EPCOT has been synonymous with high-octane thrills and cutting-edge automotive innovation. From its early days under the banner of General Motors to its Chevrolet-focused revamp in 2012, Test Track has consistently delivered an unforgettable experience for millions of park-goers. Now, as the attraction undergoes its most ambitious transformation yet, one major change is grabbing headlines: Chevrolet is out, and General Motors is back in the driver’s seat.
This sponsorship shift heralds not just a new chapter for Test Track, but also a symbolic return to the roots of EPCOT’s dedication to showcasing the future of technology. With Test Track 3.0 set to debut in late summer 2025, the stakes couldn’t be higher for General Motors and Disney alike.
A Historical Pit Stop: Test Track’s Evolution
World of Motion: A Classic Foundation
The space now known as Test Track was originally home to World of Motion, an opening-day EPCOT attraction that humorously chronicled the history of transportation. Sponsored by General Motors, World of Motion balanced whimsy with education, offering a lighthearted look at humanity’s endless quest for mobility.
When World of Motion closed in 1996, GM partnered with Disney to create a more modern experience. The result was Test Track, a high-speed thrill ride that simulated the rigorous safety and performance tests vehicles undergo before hitting the market. From brake checks to temperature endurance tests, the attraction offered guests a behind-the-scenes look at the science of car manufacturing.
Test Track 2.0: The Chevrolet Era
In 2012, Test Track received its first major overhaul. Chevrolet, a division of General Motors, became the new sponsor, and the attraction was reimagined with a futuristic, digital aesthetic. Guests could design virtual cars and test their creations on the track, making the ride an interactive celebration of automotive design. The sleek rebranding positioned Chevrolet as a forward-thinking innovator, aligning with GM’s recovery strategy following its 2009 bankruptcy.
Test Track 2.0 quickly became a fan favorite, blending thrilling speeds with a hands-on approach to creativity. The Chevrolet branding was everywhere, from the design kiosks to the final high-speed loop, making the brand an integral part of the attraction’s identity.
General Motors Returns: Why Now?
In a move that surprised many, Disney recently announced that Test Track’s next iteration would once again be presented by General Motors, marking the end of Chevrolet’s decade-long sponsorship. The decision comes at a time when GM is focusing on redefining its corporate identity, with an emphasis on sustainability, electric vehicles, and innovative technology.
The announcement was accompanied by a statement on the Disney Parks Blog:
“Test Track presented by General Motors is making its return lap late summer 2025. Walt Disney Imagineering has been working with General Motors on an all-new storyline. You’ll want to be all buckled in for an adventure that blends the best of Test Track’s legacy with the promise of the future.”
By stepping back into the spotlight, General Motors is positioning itself as a leader not just in automotive manufacturing but in shaping the future of transportation. The sponsorship change also allows the attraction to transcend specific brands, appealing to a broader audience with its focus on the automotive industry as a whole.
Test Track 3.0: A Glimpse Into the Future
Nature Meets Technology
Concept art for Test Track 3.0 reveals a dramatic departure from the sleek, industrial aesthetic of its previous versions. The updated attraction will feature scenic landscapes, including wooded areas and open fields, blending natural elements with futuristic design. This new look reflects EPCOT’s evolving mission to harmonize technology with environmental stewardship.
A New Ride Experience
While the high-speed thrills that define Test Track will remain, the storyline and visuals are getting a significant upgrade. Guests will embark on a journey that explores both the history and the future of transportation, with nods to EPCOT’s classic World of Motion attraction. Updated ride scenes will highlight cutting-edge automotive technologies, including electric and autonomous vehicles, as well as sustainable materials.
Enhanced Interactivity
The queue area is also getting a facelift, with six interactive exhibits designed to engage guests in the creative process of vehicle design. These exhibits will delve into topics like aerodynamics, renewable energy, and innovative safety features, turning the wait into an educational experience.
Timeline for Reopening
After closing in June 2024, Test Track is slated to reopen in late summer 2025. Early testing on the updated track is expected to begin in early 2025, giving guests a sneak peek at the new designs before the official reopening.
The Impact of GM’s Sponsorship Revival
The return of General Motors as Test Track’s sponsor is more than a branding change; it’s a statement about the company’s vision for the future. By focusing on its overarching identity rather than a specific brand like Chevrolet, GM is embracing a broader narrative about innovation, sustainability, and the evolution of transportation.
For EPCOT, the move aligns perfectly with the park’s transformation into a celebration of the human spirit and the power of technology. Test Track 3.0 will not only entertain but inspire, showcasing the possibilities of tomorrow while paying homage to the past.
Revving Up for the Future
As Test Track 3.0 races toward its 2025 debut, the anticipation is palpable. This new iteration promises to honor the attraction’s legacy while pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in theme park design. With General Motors back at the helm, Test Track is poised to become a cornerstone of EPCOT’s vision for a brighter, more innovative future.
Whether you’re a long-time fan of the attraction or a first-time visitor, one thing is certain: the next lap of Test Track will be an unforgettable ride.
Is this news of Disney cutting ties with one of their biggest partnerships a shock?
