What will happen to Test Track...

[OKW Lover]

Test track is approaching its 10th anniversary (April I think) and that got me to wondering what's going to happen to it. I'm guessing that GM will drop their sponsorship of this attraction (sponsorship deals are usually 10 years) so will we see another attraction turn into a ghost town?

[inkkognito]

I've been wondering too because that sponsorship has to be a huge money drain for them. I can't imagine that they make very much back from it. I hope someone else takes over as I enjoy TT and would hate to see it turn into Wonders of Life II.

[cuucuu4karaoke]

wow I didn't think of that especially with the problems GM has these days.

[cymbaldiva]

Perhaps they can use some of that bail out money ... ya think? ;)

[Mr. & Mrs. Smith]

They will likely just get a new sponsor. This has happened many times with sponsored attractions at Epcot in the past.

[Robo]

The Energy Pavilion lost its corporate sponsor years ago.

It continues to operate.

[DznyDreamz]

The Nemo attraction used to be sponsored by UTC. The sponsorship ended and the attraction still remains. Its actually better now then it was.

Back when it was sponsored by UTC we used to get access to the lounge b/c my dad was a UTC employee. On our last visit to the lounge, the name on the sign in log above us was Phil Collins! We had JUST missed him!

So don't worry about TT, it will go on with or without GM.

[dburg30]

I've been wondering too because that sponsorship has to be a huge money drain for them. I can't imagine that they make very much back from it. I hope someone else takes over as I enjoy TT and would hate to see it turn into Wonders of Life II.

I would guess that while the sponsorship may disappear, the actual money it cost GM was a drop in the bucket.

Now, NASCAR on the other hand could be in for some BIG, BIG problems..

[mr.bungle]

man test track was my fav ride! we rode it like 4 times last week. love it!! why not make it VW sponsored? then at the end run over brooke shields? i'm a huge VW fan so.... yeah.

[hotdogmj71]

Hasn't GM had that area longer than 10 years? I remember something there when I was a kid (over 20 years ago)

[amblackmon]

My boys would not be happy if Test Track was gone! I hope it stays. It is one of the rides at EPCOT that I actually like!

[Luis Rodriguez]

Hasn't GM had that area longer than 10 years? I remember something there when I was a kid (over 20 years ago)

You are correct. Before Test Track GM sponsored an attraction called "World of Motion". IIRC, it was a series of dioramas representing the history of transportation.

Regards,

Luis

[Sleeping Becca]

I hope there will be no bailout and GM goes into bankruptcy and is forced to restructure.

We are supposed to have a free market economy, it's not free if we have to pay for it.

OK back on topic.....

Test Track is a Super Headliner attraction, 10 years old and consistantly posts huge waits, it's not going anywhere even if GM circles the drain or goes down the drain.

[inkkognito]

If TT disappears, it will throw my whole Epcot routine into a mess. When I was there with DH a couple months ago, one of the CMs said to me, "You really like this ride, don't you?" I said, "Uh, yes, it's fun," not knowing what he meant. He explained that he didn't just mean that day; he had noticed me there many days (I'm easy to spot when I wear my monorail hat). Then it clicked: when I go to Epcot for a Soarin' morning, I ride the TT singles line to kill time between Soarin' FPs. I guess I didn't realize how many rides that adds up to! Without TT, where will I kill time? The dumbed down Spaceship Earth narration would send me over the edge if I did it more than once in a day, and I'd rather have my fingernails pulled out than do it on Travesty into Imagination.

[Sleeping Becca]

Hey! I love the Spaceship Earth narration, it is not dumbed down if you listen in a different language, infact it is quite an intellectual exercise.

This past trip I did French and Spanish, very cool, the french narration is very soothing.

Those are the only languages I'm familar with, although I'd love to learn others. I think I should master those first. Maybe Portugese or Italian next, I don't want to stretch too much. LOL

[Finiamh]

There are other car companies besides the big three that could take over that aren't having finance problems.

[dburg30]

If for some reason Test Track would 'go away' because of GM stopping to sponsor it, I would worry about a lot more things then your Epcot trips. If TT closes IMO it would be an indicator of much bigger problems at WDW then anything. That being said, I dont have any fear of TT closing.

[crazyoldmaurice]

Test Track will not go away if they lose their sponsorship. They will likely pick up somebody else.

Test Track - Presented by Toyota?

[mountdew1]

Someone reported on another blog that GM recently removed TT from their website corporate sponsor listing. Food for thought....

[Mr. & Mrs. Smith]

Test Track - Presented by Toyota?

That would be awesome! :thumbsup2 We :love: Toyota!

[RayaniFoxmur]

The dumbed down Spaceship Earth narration would send me over the edge if I did it more than once in a day, and I'd rather have my fingernails pulled out than do it on Travesty into Imagination.

It's really been dumbed down? :( We adore the new Spaceship Earth, the old one just bored us out of our skulls. We probably ride the new Spaceship Earth 2 or 3 times in a row!

[DJ Disney Kid]

The sponsorship has been removed from GM's website recently.

[jmclester]

The Energy Pavilion lost its corporate sponsor years ago.

It continues to operate.

So did Space Mountain!:thumbsup2

[bumbershoot]

then at the end run over brooke shields? i'm a huge VW fan so.... yeah.

:rotfl:

(sorry brooke, but come on, those ads are awful)


I guess I didn't realize how many rides that adds up to!

LOL, you should have been counting!

[GhillieGirlBelle1987]

let mazda sponsor it...zum zum !!!

[MickeyNicki]

Here is the bigger question (from DH) what about NASCAR??????

[jmclester]

Here is the bigger question (from DH) what about NASCAR??????

NASCAR has a sponsorship at WDW?

[Robo]

NASCAR has a sponsorship at WDW?

There's the "little track" just outside MK. ;)

http://www.viator.com/tours/Orlando/NASCAR-Experience-of-a-Lifetime-at-Walt-Disney-World-Speedway-Orlando/d663-3713EOAL

http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/wdw/moreMagic/otherRecDetail?id=OtherRecRichardPettyDrivingExper ienceDetailPage

[Kurby]

do they even need a sponsor for it? roller coasters don't have them don't really see why tt would need one. it's just another ride at disney

i love it but can do without the selling at the end.

[Robo]

do they even need a sponsor for it? roller coasters don't have them don't really see why tt would need one. it's just another ride at disney

i love it but can do without the selling at the end.

There have been/are attractions and pavilions that have had sponsors in the past but lost them, either permanently or temporarily, and some have continued to operate... some have closed.

Wonders of Life (Epcot) and If You Had Wings/Dreamflight (MK) were ones that perished.

[mattsdragon]

Just slap little blue ovals on everything. Ford says they don't need the cash.

[goofy4prez]

There are other car companies besides the big three that could take over that aren't having finance problems.

I don't want to turn this into a political debate but if it's an auto manufacturer whether Asian or American, they are having financial problems. This is not something only the big three are experiencing.Toyota is also having some problems as well.

http://www.deepikaglobal.com/ENG5_sub.asp?ccode=ENG5&newscode=30024

http://www.mysinchew.com/node/19322

[Goofy4]

Any marketeers out there think that ride sponsors get's back what they put in to the sponsorship? Obviously they think so. Illuminations goes for something like $20k per show, right?

[MaryKatesMom]

They will likely just get a new sponsor. This has happened many times with sponsored attractions at Epcot in the past.

Which attractions got new sponsors?

[Robo]

Which attractions got new sponsors?

The Land used to be sponsored by Kraft, Now it's Nestles.

Spaceship Earth used to be sponsored by AT&T. Now, it's Siemens/SYLVANIA.

IllumiNations used to be sponsored by GE. Now, it's Siemens/SYLVANIA.

Energy Pavilion used to be sponsored at separate times by Atlantic Richfield Oil and Exxon Oil. Now, no sponsor.

Country Bears used to be sponsored by Pepsi-Cola. Now, no sponsor.

Space Mtn. used to be sponsored by RCA, then FedEx. Now, no sponsor.
(I think one may be coming in, if they do the major refurb.)

Carousel of Progress used to be sponsored by GE. Now, no sponsor.

There are many more.





.

[MaryKatesMom]

The Land used to be sponsored by Kraft, now it's Nestles.

Spaceship Earth used to be sponsored by AT&T, now, it's Siemens/SYLVANIA.

IllumiNations used to be sponsored by GE now, it's Siemens/SYLVANIA.

Country Bears used to be sponsored by Pepsi-Cola. Now, no sponsor.

Space Mtn. used to be sponsored by RCA, then FedEx. Now, no sponsor.

None of those were seamless though, if I recall.

[Robo]

None of those were seamless though, if I recall.

Seamless?

If you mean one company left and the next came right in, then The Land changeover might qualify.

[CanadianGuy]

Short answer: Nobody knows what will happen with the GM Sponsorship of Test Track. Certainly nobody here on the DIS. And those who might know - well they aren't talking.

This thread falls squarely under the RUMORS & NEWS Board and as such I'll be moving this one there.

If you wish to debate the bailout(s) for auto or any other sector of the American economy, visit the Community Board here on the DIS or take it to PM.

Knox

[MaryKatesMom]

Seamless?

If you mean one company left and the next came right in, then The Land changeover might qualify.

The others, particularly SE seemed to lanquish. Remember the giant empty space in the exit before rehab.

[freepixie]

Without TT, where will I kill time? The dumbed down Spaceship Earth narration would send me over the edge if I did it more than once in a day, and I'd rather have my fingernails pulled out than do it on Travesty into Imagination.

That was uncalled for - my family loves both of those rides. Just because they are not your cup of tea doesn't mean you need to bash them in that way.

[paulh]

its never been open for ten years,it must have been closed or shut for about five years of that time:rotfl2:
Paulh

[CowboyJeff]

man test track was my fav ride! we rode it like 4 times last week. love it!! why not make it VW sponsored? then at the end run over brooke shields? i'm a huge VW fan so.... yeah.

Ditto! Test Track is my girls' favorite ride and we go on it ad nauseum!!! They will be devastated if anything happened to it.

[CowboyJeff]

its never been open for ten years,it must have been closed or shut for about five years of that time:rotfl2:
Paulh

Uh oh. Was Bill McKim unemployed for that long??? :rotfl:

[Fozzie`]

Ford should pick it up :P

[Argent]

I wouldn't count GM out yet. They have some of the best models available. I've owned just about every brand of car and not one of them even compare to the Chevrolets, Buicks, and Cadillacs I have owned. Unfortunately, none of the automakers are selling cars at this time. GM is just the biggest and have been hit hardest.

[KYMickey]

I wouldn't count GM out yet. They have some of the best models available. I've owned just about every brand of car and not one of them even compare to the Chevrolets, Buicks, and Cadillacs I have owned. Unfortunately, none of the automakers are selling cars at this time. GM is just the biggest and have been hit hardest.

Best models available in terms of what? They're pretty nice up front and look pretty good but as far as long-term dependability I haven't seen one yet that's worth talking about. Where as any of the Honda or Toyota products just seem to get better with time.:thumbsup2

[Mr. & Mrs. Smith]

Best models available in terms of what? They're pretty nice up front and look pretty good but as far as long-term dependability I haven't seen one yet that's worth talking about. Where as any of the Honda or Toyota products just seem to get better with time.:thumbsup2

I don't mean to turn this into an argument about which car company is the best but I got to agree with the above. I have owned a Chev and a Toyota back to back, with both cars being in the same class, and you can't compare the two. Toyota is miles ahead and they last forever. You can't even get a comparable extended warranty with Chev because even they won't guarentee their own vehicles for the long haul.

[BriarRabbit]

Test Track will not go away if they lose their sponsorship. They will likely pick up somebody else.

Test Track - Presented by Toyota?

Saved by Zero? (And they could play that tune over and over again)

[goofy4prez]

Best models available in terms of what? They're pretty nice up front and look pretty good but as far as long-term dependability I haven't seen one yet that's worth talking about. Where as any of the Honda or Toyota products just seem to get better with time.:thumbsup2


I made the mistake of purchasing a 2004 Toyota Camry. Not attacking Toyota but that car was the biggest useless rolling mass of sheet metal that I have ever owned. Engine problems, tranny replaced twice, and a constant endless electrical problem that could never be solved. I had the car a wopping 16 months and got rid of it. My wife now drives a Honda Accord and I drive a Lincoln MKZ and love both cars.

As for test track, I personally would rather see someone like Ford take it over.

[rutgers1]

I only drive Toyota, but would prefer to see an American company headlining a Disney ride like TT.

When you look at the mass of humanity in the parks on any given day, and when you figure that most are spending thousand and thousands of dollars like me, it is hard to understand:
1) why any of the rides need sponsors
2) why prices keep going up

Although I am sure there are cross promotion benefits to owning ABC, Disney Channel, ESPN and others, but I have to think that money is pulled out of the parks to fuel ailing parts of the company. While reading Disney War, I was shocked to see how much money was paid to the top execs. Shocked. It really seemed criminal.

[Metro West]

Saved by Zero? (And they could play that tune over and over again)One of my favorite songs of the 80's. :thumbsup2

[yitbos96bb]

I would guess that while the sponsorship may disappear, the actual money it cost GM was a drop in the bucket.

Now, NASCAR on the other hand could be in for some BIG, BIG problems..

I don't think Could Be is the word... WILL BE seems to be the CW for NASCAR. Even the powerhouses like Gibbs and Hendricks are getting nervous. The Big 3 are cutting NASCAR expenditures by 30%. It will be rough.

[mitros]

I only drive Toyota, but would prefer to see an American company headlining a Disney ride like TT.

When you look at the mass of humanity in the parks on any given day, and when you figure that most are spending thousand and thousands of dollars like me, it is hard to understand:
1) why any of the rides need sponsors
2) why prices keep going up

Although I am sure there are cross promotion benefits to owning ABC, Disney Channel, ESPN and others, but I have to think that money is pulled out of the parks to fuel ailing parts of the company. While reading Disney War, I was shocked to see how much money was paid to the top execs. Shocked. It really seemed criminal.

Yea, seems to be a lot about those over paid executives in the news as of late. :sad2: And yes, it is criminal!

[bonrea]

The Energy Pavilion lost its corporate sponsor years ago.

It continues to operate.

:surfweb: Sponsors are typically solicited in order to raise the initial capital to design and build out and advertise a new attraction. The 10 year sponsorship contract is just part of it. If the attraction is a hit it usually remains even if there is no continuing sponsorship.

[Soichiro]

This entire topic is insane. Test Track is easily the second most popular attraction at EPCOT and it usually competes with Soarin' in terms of wait times and guest satisfaction. There's no possible chance that they would get rid of TT barring extreme unforeseen circumstances.

[disrailfan]

Test Track - Presented by Toyota?


Please god anything but a foriegn car company. :lmao:

[disrailfan]

I don't think Could Be is the word... WILL BE seems to be the CW for NASCAR. Even the powerhouses like Gibbs and Hendricks are getting nervous. The Big 3 are cutting NASCAR expenditures by 30%. It will be rough.

They really should go back to the early model of Nascar racing where anyone could take a street car and race. Those were the days, that is of course how Petty got started.

I say they should go back to them requiring a street car be used instead of this engineered crap that they call racing. Don't get me wrong I enjoy most races, but if they would do this then things like what happened at the BrickYard 400 this year would never happen.

[yitbos96bb]

They will likely just get a new sponsor. This has happened many times with sponsored attractions at Epcot in the past.

Toyota? They build more cars in America than the Big 3 do.

[yitbos96bb]

They really should go back to the early model of Nascar racing where anyone could take a street car and race. Those were the days, that is of course how Petty got started.

I say they should go back to them requiring a street car be used instead of this engineered crap that they call racing. Don't get me wrong I enjoy most races, but if they would do this then things like what happened at the BrickYard 400 this year would never happen.

It would be fun, but one of the big reasons behind the current design is safety.

[yitbos96bb]

Please god anything but a foriegn car company. :lmao:

Hat to break it to you... They build more cars in this country than GM, Ford or chevy. That is why NASCAR allowed them to come in.

[goofy4prez]

Hat to break it to you... They build more cars in this country than GM, Ford or chevy. That is why NASCAR allowed them to come in.


I'm not trying to bash a foreign car but Toyota may build cars here in the US but it's still a foreign company. GM, and Ford are American Companies. As for Nascar(and yes I'm a big fan) Toyota was brought in for one reason and that is $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$. They were willing to flash it and Brian France was willing to take it.

I'm not going to bash who should sponsor this attraction if GM pulls out of it. I personally would like to see an American company sponsor it. But that is JMHO.

[VolvoManiac850]

I personally would like to see Honda take over Test Track. They're already up on the "educational car" deal (if you've ever seen their "Cog" commercial you know what I mean). They also have more interesting technology than GM has (yes, there's the Chevy Volt, but come on, outdated gas guzzlers don't quite match what some of the other companies are doing right now).

[goofy4prez]

I personally would like to see Honda take over Test Track. They're already up on the "educational car" deal (if you've ever seen their "Cog" commercial you know what I mean). They also have more interesting technology than GM has (yes, there's the Chevy Volt, but come on, outdated gas guzzlers don't quite match what some of the other companies are doing right now).

Outdated gas guzzlers and more interesting technology sounds like you speak more from your opinion than what is fact. Research it and then come on here and say the same thing. IN fact you contradict your own opinion by mentioning an advanced design like the Volt. Also, when I mean fuel efficient I'm not referring to pop cans on four wheels as a family auto. Or inefficiency as trucks and SUV's. And for what it's worth I don't dislike Honda, it's a good car.

Here let me give you the first links in your research about technology and fuel efficiency.

http://www.theautochannel.com/news/2008/12/23/319565.html

http://money.cnn.com/galleries/2008/autos/0809/gallery.gm_volt_reveal/index.html

[ugadog68]

You can't even get a comparable extended warranty with Chev because even they won't guarentee their own vehicles for the long haul.

Uh I believe GM has a standard 7 year 100k mile warranty.

Why don't you check your standard warranty on your Toyota.

[Geubux]

Fear not! I just heard, from a reliable source, who heard it from their bil, who heard it from his cousin, who heard it from her hairdresser, who heard it from a crossdresser, who had a neighbor on vacation at IOA, who ran across a family coming from WDW, who talked to a lifeguard at All stars, who had it on good source from a part time bus driver that the Federal Government was going to bailout Test Track with a loan!

From now on, anyone who works for the government, or gets a social security check, or receives government assistance, or who is in the military, or who ever was in the military, or who loves their government, or who has ever voted, or who has ever eaten the free mints from the bowl at the checkout of a chinese restaurant, gets to use the lounge and gets to go to the front of the line, FREE!!!!

What a great deal!:wizard:

[jmclester]

Uh I believe GM has a standard 7 year 100k mile warranty.

Why don't you check your standard warranty on your Toyota.

Warranty? Who needs a warranty? I just turned 299,000 miles on my '82 Toyota pick up.:cool1:

[ugadog68]

Fear not! I just heard, from a reliable source, who heard it from their bil, who heard it from his cousin, who heard it from her hairdresser, who heard it from a crossdresser, who had a neighbor on vacation at IOA, who ran across a family coming from WDW, who talked to a lifeguard at All stars, who had it on good source from a part time bus driver that the Federal Government was going to bailout Test Track with a loan!

From now on, anyone who works for the government, or gets a social security check, or receives government assistance, or who is in the military, or who ever was in the military, or who loves their government, or who has ever voted, or who has ever eaten the free mints from the bowl at the checkout of a chinese restaurant, gets to use the lounge and gets to go to the front of the line, FREE!!!!

What a great deal!:wizard:
:rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2:

[daleswife]

I'm not trying to bash a foreign car but Toyota may build cars here in the US but it's still a foreign company. GM, and Ford are American Companies. As for Nascar(and yes I'm a big fan) Toyota was brought in for one reason and that is $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$. They were willing to flash it and Brian France was willing to take it.

I'm not going to bash who should sponsor this attraction if GM pulls out of it. I personally would like to see an American company sponsor it. But that is JMHO.

I have to agree with you on this one. I say let an AMERICAN owned company take it over. Toyota is manufactured in the USA, however, the money goes overseas. It does NOT stay in the USA. As for nascar allowing toyota in, thats just utter BS and it should not have been allowed. Rule changes for them to enter were wrong.

DH says if Toyota or Honda takes over he will never step foot on it again....I have to agree....

I like my gas guzzeling Dodge Ram 1500 Quad Cab!!!

[mitros]

Warranty? Who needs a warranty? I just turned 299,000 miles on my '82 Toyota pick up.:cool1:

My brother has a Chevy p/u, 1979, I think, with 289,000 miles on it, and a friend has an Impala with 240,000 miles..... go figure

[daleswife]

My DH's uncle has a chevy truck with 279,000 miles on it. We have an '89 ford bronco with 200,000 miles on it....just sayin

[KYMickey]

I'm not trying to bash a foreign car but Toyota may build cars here in the US but it's still a foreign company. GM, and Ford are American Companies. As for Nascar(and yes I'm a big fan) Toyota was brought in for one reason and that is $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$. They were willing to flash it and Brian France was willing to take it.

I'm not going to bash who should sponsor this attraction if GM pulls out of it. I personally would like to see an American company sponsor it. But that is JMHO.
The whole discussion about American car companies vs. foreign car companies is ridiculous these days. All car companies are international. Actually when you think about it Toyota, Honda, Mercedes, Kia, etc. are are becoming more American because they are still building more production facilities here. GM and Ford are becoming less and less American because they're shutting down American plants and building new ones in Mexico, China, India, etc. Based on this which companies are more beneficial to American blue collar workers, which are the majority of people attending NASCAR events? Gee, funny thing when you look at it this way it's Toyota in the rest of that group.

Oh yes, don't try to back your argument talking about where the profits are going because there aren't any. Instead what you call American car companies are actually costing American taxpayers money every day and with every car they manufacture.

[ugadog68]

Maybe TT should be sponsored by State Farm or Geico. Get it... Crash Testing Cars, Insurance companies :lmao:

ok I know that was corny

[daleswife]

Maybe TT should be sponsored by State Farm or Geico. Get it... Crash Testing Cars, Insurance companies :lmao:

ok I know that was corny

BRILLIANT!!!!! Settles the whole American car vs. foreign car debate....let the Insurance companies take it over(even though I think insurance is a joke)....I like it.

[goofy4prez]

The whole discussion about American car companies vs. foreign car companies is ridiculous these days. All car companies are international. Actually when you think about it Toyota, Honda, Mercedes, Kia, etc. are are becoming more American because they are still building more production facilities here. GM and Ford are becoming less and less American because they're shutting down American plants and building new ones in Mexico, China, India, etc. Based on this which companies are more beneficial to American blue collar workers, which are the majority of people attending NASCAR events? Gee, funny thing when you look at it this way it's Toyota in the rest of that group.

Oh yes, don't try to back your argument talking about where the profits are going because there aren't any. Instead what you call American car companies are actually costing American taxpayers money every day and with every car they manufacture.


Before you come on here with your attacks at a post why don't you read what the hay I posted. Did I get into a debate about where the money is going. Did I even mention where they are built. Or did I mention where a domestic company builds their cars. Did I even say that Toyota did not belong in Nascar. I think the answer to all of these questions is a resounding NO.

I mearly stated that Ford and GM are domestic companies. The term domestic is that they are headquarted in the United States Of America. They may build cars in China, Mexico, Canada, or any other nation but they are still an American company. There are many companies outside of the auto industry as well that are domestic and build products elsewhere.

Honda builds cars right here in the state of Ohio where I live. Ohio is in the United States. However, Honda is a Japanese company that also happens to produce cars in America. It is not a domestic company. Same thing for Toyota, BMW, Mercedes, and Kia. They may produce cars here but they are foreign companies. That was my only point.

[KYMickey]

Before you come on here with your attacks at a post why don't you read what the hay I posted......
I think somebody needs to take the chill pill! If you read my post I was not attacking anything but merely making a point. I only referenced your post because it started discussing $$ in relation American and foreign car companies.

As far as a discussion of domestic auto companies goes here's one of the dictionary definitions of domestic: "indigenous to or produced or made within one's own country; ". Kind of makes the argument about domestic auto companies go away doesn't it? Another good point is which companies are actually growing in providing jobs for Americans? It's certainly isn't the company's you call domestic.

I have this discussion with my father-in-law all the time. When he points out that my wife and I drive foreign cars (a Honda in a Toyota) I point out to him that both our cars were made in America but his wife's American Chevy was made in Mexico! Kind of slows down his argument very quickly.

[ugadog68]

My GMC Sierra was made in Indiana, and my Corvette was made in Kentucky and both are HQ out of Michigan, Whoopee...

Isn't this a WDW discussion forum in a thread about TT anyways...:confused3

[mitros]

BRILLIANT!!!!! Settles the whole American car vs. foreign car debate....let the Insurance companies take it over(even though I think insurance is a joke)....I like it.

Yea why not? Insurance companies are the ones with all the money, with their ridiculous rates, and their no-claim-you-make-will-be-honored attitude!:sad2:

[PryncessChrysty]

Given that Honda sponsors at least 2 attractions at DLR (the "Remember...Dreams Come True Fireworks Spectacular" and Innoventions with the ASIMO exhibit), it's clear that Disney doesn't discriminate as to whether their sponsors are domestic or foreign ~ especially in this economy. So with the state of all domestic car companies running on economic fumes so to speak, I think their only option would be Honda or Toyota. Which leaves us to ask the multi-million dollar question: Will they continue with Honda to possibly form an exclusive deal, or will they branch off to Toyota considering their relationship with NASCAR in FL?

*On a side note, even though Honda sponsors attractions at DLR, the cars, trucks & vans driven around by CM's appear to solely be Chevy's.

[daleswife]

I think somebody needs to take the chill pill! If you read my post I was not attacking anything but merely making a point. I only referenced your post because it started discussing $$ in relation American and foreign car companies.

As far as a discussion of domestic auto companies goes here's one of the dictionary definitions of domestic: "indigenous to or produced or made within one's own country; ". Kind of makes the argument about domestic auto companies go away doesn't it? Another good point is which companies are actually growing in providing jobs for Americans? It's certainly isn't the company's you call domestic.

I have this discussion with my father-in-law all the time. When he points out that my wife and I drive foreign cars (a Honda in a Toyota) I point out to him that both our cars were made in America but his wife's American Chevy was made in Mexico! Kind of slows down his argument very quickly.

Your definition of "domestic" is correct. HOwever, you are missing one vital bit of information. Even though those cars are built in the USA, the money that is made from selling them goes OVERSEAS. The only part of that money that stays in the USA is the measly amount they pay the plant workers and the salesmen. the rest of that money goes to the foreign countries. And even though yes Ford, GM, and Dodge have plants in other countries, that MONEY comes back to the USA to help OUR economy. So before you go and get on your high horse about how good foreign cars are, think of how you are NOT helping the USA when you buy one.

[jmclester]

I would unsubscribe to this thread but I can't figure out how. Very un-Disney-ish.

[jmclester]

I would unsubscribe to this thread but I can't figure out how. Very un-Disney-ish.


Ok I figured it out. See you folks on another thread. Or on Test Track whichever comes first. I'll be the one smiling!:drive:

[maryfree]

maybe they can will remake HORIZONS in its spot....(you can wish cant you)...haha

[mitros]

maybe they can will remake HORIZONS in its spot....(you can wish cant you)...haha

.............yea, if only.

[KYMickey]

Your definition of "domestic" is correct. HOwever, you are missing one vital bit of information. Even though those cars are built in the USA, the money that is made from selling them goes OVERSEAS. The only part of that money that stays in the USA is the measly amount they pay the plant workers and the salesmen. the rest of that money goes to the foreign countries. And even though yes Ford, GM, and Dodge have plants in other countries, that MONEY comes back to the USA to help OUR economy. So before you go and get on your high horse about how good foreign cars are, think of how you are NOT helping the USA when you buy one.
You may have the points IF the U.S. auto industry was making money. However they aren't, all they're doing is costing every American taxpayer money so they can keep operating at a loss which in my opinion isn't a very good deal. I don't know where you get off saying the measly amount they pay their employees, their employees take home about the same as as those who work for U.S. companies. Their hourly rate the lower but their paychecks aren't stripped of the union dues which are squandered away and they don't have to worry about getting laid off every year.

I spend my money where I get the best value for it and these days it certainly isn't in "domestic" automobiles. :rolleyes: End of discussion.

[daleswife]

You may have the points IF the U.S. auto industry was making money. However they aren't, all they're doing is costing every American taxpayer money so they can keep operating at a loss which in my opinion isn't a very good deal. I don't know where you get off saying the measly amount they pay their employees, their employees take home about the same as as those who work for U.S. companies. Their hourly rate the lower but their paychecks aren't stripped of the union dues which are squandered away and they don't have to worry about getting laid off every year.

I spend my money where I get the best value for it and these days it certainly isn't in "domestic" automobiles. :rolleyes: End of discussion.

Ok lets look at WHY the US auto industry isnt making money....PEOPLE ARE BUYING FOREIGN CARS!!! And the amount of Money they make is minimal compared to what US car companies pay.

[pixiedustaholic]

:confused3 :confused3 :confused3 :confused3 :confused3 :confused3

[WizardLarz]

Take a deep breath everyone! GM does not pay the employees that run the ride nor do they have anything to do with the maintaining the ride! They just paid Disney money to put their logo onthe out side and have GM pictures and other things throughout the ride! Like all the new sports stadiums,PNC Park and the like!:drive:

[daleswife]

I didnt even get to ride TT last august!!! :(

[Geubux]

It would be EASY to change sponsership of Test Track
1) Change name out front
2) Remove all GM signage/logos inside
3) Install (insert auto company name here) signage outside
4) Install (insert auto company name here) doo dads throughout the ride
5) Install more hidden mickeys
6) Change decals on vehicles
7) Fork over about $20 million
8) See government about loan/ offer front of line pass to president's kids if money comes through:lmao:

[ThunderMTexpert]

My husband & I were talking about this when we were there this past December. I told him that I was willing to put money on the fact that it would change into a themed-ride, featuring CARS!! The Disney-Pixar movie would be a perfect change! Once the sponser ends, switching the ride to something more recognizable might be an awesome idea!! Anyone else concur? LOL!! :cheer2: I personally, love Test-Track!

[disrailfan]

It would be EASY to change sponsership of Test Track
1) Change name out front
2) Remove all GM signage/logos inside
3) Install (insert auto company name here) signage outside
4) Install (insert auto company name here) doo dads throughout the ride
5) Install more hidden mickeys
6) Change decals on vehicles
7) Fork over about $20 million
8) See government about loan/ offer front of line pass to president's kids if money comes through:lmao:

Hey maybe since Fiat is getting a stake in the company I work for (Chrysler LLC). Maybe they will want a place to put their products and ours in front of the general public at Epcot. :rotfl2:

[daleswife]

My husband & I were talking about this when we were there this past December. I told him that I was willing to put money on the fact that it would change into a themed-ride, featuring CARS!! The Disney-Pixar movie would be a perfect change! Once the sponser ends, switching the ride to something more recognizable might be an awesome idea!! Anyone else concur? LOL!! :cheer2: I personally, love Test-Track!

that is an even better idea than the ins companies taking it over. They dont have a ride for Cars so it would be a good way to fit them in....Great Idea ThunderMtexpert!!!

[ThunderMTexpert]

that is an even better idea than the ins companies taking it over. They dont have a ride for Cars so it would be a good way to fit them in....Great Idea ThunderMtexpert!!!

THANKS! :upsidedow I feel so special!

[ajenkins]

Long Live Test Track!!!

[djlexus]

i spoke to a cm today and he told me that there are alot of structural problems with the building. So there going to tear it down and build a cars ride. It will be very similar to the cars ride at disneyland.

[KYMickey]

i spoke to a cm today and he told me that there are alot of structural problems with the building. So there going to tear it down and build a cars ride. It will be very similar to the cars ride at disneyland.
By any chance was that CM a bus driver? :confused3 :rotfl2:

[ThunderMTexpert]

tear the whole thing down & start from scratch?! no way!

[djlexus]

actually you were close it was a monorail conductor haha.

[M-I-C-K-E-Y]

If GM paid Disney their sponsorship monies up front, then no problems, unless of course Disney was expecting or counting on a new 10 year influx of revenue in their budget. However, if the sponsorship was on an annual basis, and the funds went specifically to the attraction, then - yes - there's problems ahead...

[Corky Morris]

Ok lets look at WHY the US auto industry isnt making money....PEOPLE ARE BUYING FOREIGN CARS!!! And the amount of Money they make is minimal compared to what US car companies pay.

There are very few (if any now) car makers that make any money. GM is pretty much a pension fund!

The bottom line is choice. I worked in the US for a couple of years & am a British national. I have German & Japanese cars. Why? Quality, price, customer service. British car makers have some decent products, but they are more expensive, have less gas mileage & servicing costs are greater. Why should I buy a car if it does not fulfill my needs or criteria?

I like some US cars. BUT my car at home does 50mpg. My fathers Jeep Patriot does 43 (ish) mpg You cant buy that car in your own country - How does that make any sense?

Japanese car makers make cars for different markets. Diesel for Europe, gas/hybrid for the US. And small petrol cars for the local markets. US car makers never bought into it until recently. Jeeps, Dodge & Chrysler has only just started to make an impact - 20 years to late!

The 300c is a great looking car. You can buy it here with a 3L diesel that does almost 40 to the gallon & is pretty quick through the gears. You cant buy it in the US!

Hopefully you are getting my point? If the car makers had the right product - people would buy it!

As for TT - I have always love that ride & it is my eldest 2 boys favourite. I dont car if its called Cars, GM, Ford or Honda - Just keep it running.

[OKW Lover]

Well, it seems as though my original speculation might have some legs, as mentioned in this story (http://www.orlandosentinel.com/business/orl-biztesttrack04030409mar04,0,4184081.story).

[MassJester]

Interesting story.

Glad to see another MA person gazing through the Orlando papers :thumbsup2

[rodkenrich]

According to a recent article "It could be the right time for a rival company to take over. However, if this happens, Disney might have to close Test Track for a period of time to remove every evidence of GM ever been there. No rival would like to see any GM logo on “their” new ride."

[Mouseaholic!!!]

I don't see too many car manufacturer's running to Disney begging to give them $$$ for a park attraction.

Did anyone read Toyota asked their government for a $2 billion loan yesterday?


Here is the info from Business week yesterday....

Auto Bailout: Et Tu, Toyota?

To raise funds, the top automaker is asking for a loan from the state-backed Japan Bank for Asia
There's a surprising addition to the list of automakers asking for billions of dollars in bailout funds. Until Moody's and S&P cut Toyota's (TM) ratings last month to their second-highest rating, the company had been one of the handful of nonfinancial companies in the world with the highest possible ratings from the agencies. Even after the recent one-notch downgrades, the Japanese automaker's credit rating has remained the envy of rivals like General Motors (GM) and Ford (F). Difficulties raising funds in the U.S. mean Toyota now has something in common with its ailing Detroit competitors: It is following their lead and turning to the state for a helping hand.

According to reports in Japan's local media, Toyota is in talks to borrow a little over $2 billion from the state-backed Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC) to secure funds for its U.S. operations. Toyota, which expects to lose $3.9 billion this year, through a spokesman confirmed it is discussing the loan, but declined to discuss the details. If Toyota does reach a deal, it will be the first Japanese automaker to apply for assistance from the new emergency fund, which is tapping $5 billion from the Japanese government this month to lend to Japanese corporations that operate internationally.

But Toyota is just the latest Japanese automaker to ask for government assistance. Last month, Nissan (NSANY) and Mitsubishi Motors both signaled their intent to ask for loans from the Development Bank of Japan. Meanwhile, Toyota's European arm is planning to request funding from the European Investment Bank to finance research and development into clean technologies.

Funds from Japan's Foreign Exchange Reserves
With the Japanese auto industry ailing, chances are JBIC will need an injection of more bailout funds soon. As the credit crunch hits even the strongest automakers, the outlook remains desperate, particularly as many customers need access to credit to buy new cars. The current $5 billion JBIC has available comes from the country's $1 trillion of foreign exchange reserves. "Taking into account the current severe conditions for those trying to procure foreign funds, we've decided to lend foreign currencies [from the reserves] to the JBIC as a temporary, extraordinary measure," Kaoru Yosano, Japan's new Foreign Minister, said on Mar. 3. Yosano replaced Shoichi Nakagawa, who created a storm last month after appearing to be drunk at a Group of Seven press conference in Rome. Nakagawa denied he was intoxicated and said he had taken too much cold medicine, but he quickly stepped down.

Analysts responded positively to the news that Toyota is talking with JBIC, saying automakers should tap easily available government funds at a time when credit at reasonable interest rates is otherwise so tight. In Tokyo trading, Toyota's stock closed down 0.3%, a better performance than the market as a whole, which fell 0.6%.

The Toyota news comes at a time when automakers are seeing a few positive glimmers. Since reaching a 13-year high in December, the yen has weakened by nine yen per dollar, or 10%. A one-yen weakening adds about $400 million to Toyota's earnings over a full year. With the worst news seemingly in the public domain, stock prices have stabilized: Although the benchmark Nikkei index is down 18% so far this year, Toyota's stock price is up 4.2%, and Honda's (HMC) shares have done even better, rising 21%. Even Nissan, the weakest of the big three, has only dipped 5%.

Some Layoffs May Be Reversed
Despite news on Mar. 2 that Japanese car sales touched a 35-year low in January, carmakers are indicating that they will gradually raise local production in the coming weeks following huge cutbacks. Nissan, after cutting production in January and February by 60% and 70%, respectively, will increase Japanese production this month. To be sure, sales remain depressed, but inventory levels are edging back toward acceptable levels. Similarly, Honda, which cut Japanese production 23% in January, has said it will gradually increase production from April onward. The company's executive vice-president, Koichi Kondo, has said that by the end of the first half, inventories should "return to normal."

There's even talk of reversing some layoffs. According to a report in the Japanese press on Mar. 3, Toyota Motor Kyushu, Toyota's manufacturing subsidiary in western Japan, is planning to keep 1,000 temporary workers it had been set to lay off. According to the Nikkei newspaper, the agency-supplied workers will receive new contracts from Toyota or become permanent staffers in the expectation that production will increase. With sales still slumping, production remains depressed compared with previous levels, but after the shock of plunging sales in November and December, Japan's carmakers at least appear to be managing the crisis more adeptly.