Universal Studios Hollywood Studio Tour trams go electric to combat climate change
Universal Studios Hollywood has begun converting its famed Studio Tour trams from diesel to electric to help reduce air pollution and combat climate change while making for a quieter ride around the movie and TV studio backlot.
Universal Studios Hollywood has rolled out the first of four electric trams in its fleet of 21 Studio Tour trams. NBC “Today” show weather anchor Al Roker is featured in a video introduction aboard the new electric trams.
SEE ALSO: Universal, Disney aim to make 2023 a big year for theme park fans
For more than 55 years, the Studio Tour has taken visitors behind the scenes at Universal’s movie and television backlot that includes rides like “Fast & Furious — Supercharged” and “King Kong 360 3-D.”
The conversion of the trams from diesel-hydraulic to electric engines has been in the works since 2017. Universal plans to eventually convert the entire 21-tram fleet.
The move is part of Universal’s commitment to creating a zero-emissions Studio Tour fleet and achieving its carbon neutral goal.
The project was funded in part by the South Coast Air Quality Management District and Southern California Edison in an effort to combat climate change, according to a Universal news release.
SEE ALSO: Universal Studios Hollywood announces 2023 opening for immersive Super Nintendo World
The new electric trams designed by Los Angeles-based Complete Coach Works use inductive charging technology from New York-based Ideanomics. Regenerative brakes charge the trams during operation.