PeopleMover – A Tomorrowland Transit Preview of the Future

Unveiled in 1967 as a signature attraction of Disneyland’s newly reimagined Tomorrowland, the PeopleMover was more than a scenic ride—it was a bold vision of the future of urban transportation. Developed by WED Enterprises and sponsored by Goodyear, this innovative “WEDway” system featured 62 motorless, all-electric four-car trains that moved continuously along an elevated guideway, gliding above Tomorrowland on sleek, sweeping pylons.

In contrast to conventional ride vehicles, the PeopleMover's vehicles lacked onboard motors. Instead, a number of embedded drive motors inside the guideway provided propulsion, making for a remarkably dependable, quiet, and smooth ride. The system was entirely automated, needed very little personnel, and was made for point-to-point travel, which could potentially be expanded to other cities and airports around the nation. Reliable, secure operation was ensured by the system's capacity to function even in the event of a drive unit failure.

From a circular, three-story PeopleMover station underneath the Rocket Jets, passengers boarded, climbing to the loading platform via a Goodyear "speed ramp." Visitors were able to enter the moving cars with ease as the trains moved in perfect time with the station's rotating turntable. Entering this sophisticated solution was similar to entering a stationary car. Four adults or six kids could fit comfortably in each compartment, which had two opposing seats. The canopies raised and lowered for easy access, and doors automatically opened and closed.

The attraction offered a scenic 15-minute tour of Tomorrowland along a 4,000-foot track. The trip included narrated previews of the region's newest and most ambitious attractions, including Monsanto's Adventure Thru Inner Space, Bell Telephone's America the Beautiful, General Electric's Carousel of Progress, and the futuristic Progress City model. The narration was accompanied by musical scores that were broadcast directly into each car to further enhance the immersive experience.

Capable of transporting nearly 4,880 guests per hour, the PeopleMover was not only efficient, but charming—an endlessly gliding procession of futuristic trains offering a peaceful overview of Tomorrowland’s wonders. It was both an attraction and a demonstration of what transit could become in a more imaginative, optimistic future.

Walt Disney's unwavering faith in progress and innovation was symbolized by the PeopleMover, a beloved Tomorrowland icon with its simple design, innovative technology, and useful application.