Testing a new truck prototype at Kilimanjaro Safaris

[Neverland]

I don't have a picture, but for the last few days, safari drivers and WDI have been taking a new truck around and around the track all day. No passengers (besides WDI people with laptops), only weighted dummies. It looks essentially the same. Slight differences, but overall, just like the old trucks, only nicer and newer, and seemingly less bumpy.

 

[FigmentJedi]

Less bumpy sounds good. I've always had trouble getting clear pictures on the Safari with my digital camera between the shaking of the vehicles and having the unfortunate luck of it being a rainy day.

 

[Epicpilot]

Just a question, is is no longer bumpy at all or is it just less bumpy?

 

[Tip Top Club]

Just less bumpy. These trucks will slowly phase in literally one by one over a long period of time. Look for new technology to make the drivers lives easier, as well as enhancements to the show in preparation for a large influx of attendance at that park (aka Avatar)

 

[The Duck]

Less bumpy sounds promising. My biggest problem in taking photos on KS is just when I have my camera lined up... the truck lurches forward and I get an out of focus giraffe and a crystal clear shot of a strangers ear.
I know that I'll probably never see this but I would love to hear Wilson's voice again. Even without the poachers etc., it was a nice touch that made the ride seem all the more "African".

 

[Tim_4]

I believe the new vehicles are made by Ford. Disney has an exclusive contract with GM for light and medium-duty vehicles, but they're allowed to bid out their heavy-duty contracts.

 

[Poofiesdream]

Thanks for the info!

 

[disney4life2008]

I know KS gets a beating by some posters but I honestly can ride it a few times on my AK visits. It is very relaxing.

 

[flynnibus]

i always figured the bumpy was because it was supposed to be authentic...

 

[bethymouse]

I like the bumpy.

 

[LucyK]

As long as the bumpy-ness is not all gone! It's a safari through Africa for Pete's sake, not a ride on Daytona 500.

 

[R W B]

Less bumpy will be an issue for me. I like it how it is. Sure new trucks with better suspension will be an easier ride but also less authentic.

 

[Clamman73]

i always figured the bumpy was because it was supposed to be authentic...

Right...When I look at the road the truck drives on, it seems as though there are purposely made dips and such in the road so it's "authentic", so there shouldn't be complaints about a bumpy ride; otherwise, they would scrape the road smooth every morning to give it an autobahn smooth surface.

 

[luv]

I like the bumpiness. Always happiest when I am seated in the back and get to bump along.

 

[drew81]

Now, if they would only add hyenas and water buffalo to KS.

 

[Clever Name]

Here's a photo of one of the new KS trucks at WDW.

 

[unkadug]

Here's a photo of one of the new KS trucks at WDW.

Looks like a fun ride to me....can I sit on top?

 

[Nemo14]

Looks like a fun ride to me....can I sit on top?

You have to reserve that 60 days ahead....

 

[NoChesterHester]

Dang... New trucks! Now we know what we will see at the Imagineering Open House!

 

[ksr99]

im going to miss driving the old trucks!