A long-running attraction at Disneyland experienced a rare malfunction Tuesday when one of its ride vehicles derailed mid-ride, prompting an evacuation of guests.
The incident occurred on June 4 at Autopia, a Tomorrowland ride that has been part of the park since opening day in 1955. The derailment caused at least one vehicle to veer off course and come to rest in a shrubbed area beside the track.
No injuries were reported.
Ride Temporarily Closed After Incident
Footage captured by visitors showed a red Autopia vehicle tilted off the track, with Disney cast members escorting guests out of the ride area. The attraction was temporarily closed while crews assessed the situation. Autopia later reopened the same day.
First time I’ve actually seen a car derailed on Autopia. Attraction is completely shut down. #Disneyland
First time I’ve actually seen a car derailed on Autopia. Attraction is completely shut down. #Disneyland pic.twitter.com/9HNKxIKUdR
— LaughingPlace.com (@laughing_place) June 4, 2025
According to FOX 11, all parkgoers were safely removed from the ride, and no medical issues were reported. The ride resumed normal operation after a short closure.
While Autopia generally runs without issue, former Disneyland employees noted that derailments, though rare, can occur.
“It’s very rare but I have seen a fully derailed off the tracks car before,” one former Autopia cast member posted on X, formerly known as Twitter. “Most likely to happen around the off-road area. Before you take the big U-Turn a car if hit hard enough from behind CAN derail from the first turn. The little hill helps pop it off the track.”
Autopia Has Faced Increased Scrutiny in Recent Years
Autopia’s vehicles run along a rail-guided track and are designed with bumpers and speed limitations to enhance safety. Disney’s official website describes them as “equipped with front and rear bumpers and an undercarriage guide rail to safeguard your trip.”
Originally designed to showcase futuristic highways, Autopia has retained its vintage concept over the decades. However, its longevity has also drawn criticism. The attraction is currently scheduled to receive fully electric vehicles by fall 2026.
Versions of Autopia have been retired at Hong Kong Disneyland and Tokyo Disneyland. It still operates at Disneyland Paris and Magic Kingdom in Florida under the name Tomorrowland Indy Speedway.
Tuesday’s derailment follows other rare incidents involving ride vehicles at Disney parks. In April, a reported derailment occurred on Space Mountain. In 2003, one guest was killed and 10 others were injured when Big Thunder Mountain Railroad derailed inside a tunnel.
Despite the latest Autopia incident, no lasting disruption was reported at Disneyland. The ride remains open to guests.
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