Last month, speculation emerged suggesting that Universal Orlando Resort is exploring a partnership with Elon Musk’s Boring Company to develop an underground transportation network along International Drive. This proposed system aims to seamlessly connect Universal’s original campus with its upcoming park, the Epic Universe. The goal is to alleviate traffic congestion on I-Drive and provide guests a more efficient means of navigating the resort.
While the details remain unconfirmed by either party, sources indicate that the proposed tunnel network could resemble the Las Vegas Convention Center Loop, where passengers are transported via Tesla vehicles to various locations.
Universal has already taken steps to enhance traffic flow to Epic Universe, featuring a substantial elevated loop that incorporates designated bus lanes. However, any advancements in transportation could greatly benefit guests eager to maximize their experiences during their visits.
To gauge concerns among travelers regarding transit times between parks, insights from several travel advisors were gathered. Most guests reportedly accept transportation durations as part of the Universal experience. Beci Mahnken, owner of MEI-Travel, noted that clients generally do not express significant frustration over travel times. In contrast, Sara Newbury, an advisor at Travel Leaders – Galaxy Travel, indicated that complaints often center on the wait times for buses rather than the journey itself. The Boring Company claims that the average wait time in Las Vegas is under 10 seconds, potentially addressing this customer concern.
“Time is money, and nowadays it seems we have to protect both more than ever before,” Newbury remarked, suggesting that reduced travel times could become a crucial selling point for Universal.
Another intriguing possibility involves theming the underground tunnels and transit vehicles to provide an entertaining experience, similar to the Hogwarts Express connecting Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios Florida. However, achieving this would not be without challenges.
Mahnken and Newbury pointed to potential environmental hurdles in Florida, including intricate soil conditions, a high water table, hurricane contingencies, and the risk of sinkholes, which could complicate the project. Nevertheless, Mahnken expressed optimism about advances in engineering technology making such innovative transportation concepts more viable. Universal and other theme parks continually seek methods to enhance guest experiences, which positions unique ideas like this for future consideration.
Universal has a wealth of intellectual property that could inspire themed transportation. Consider the vast universe of the Fast & Furious franchise or the various lands associated with the beloved Harry Potter series. For example, the transport system could serve as a whimsical ride featuring Arthur Weasley’s Ford Anglia or transform Teslas into carriages reminiscent of those that transport Hogwarts students from Hogsmeade’s train station.
With the announcement of Epic Universe back in 2019, the anticipation for themed transportation has been palpable. Whether through electric vehicles or alternative methods, Universal is poised to explore a plethora of exciting possibilities that will enhance the overall guest experience at its Orlando properties.
