Maurer Rides has teased a new PeopleMover transportation system that will be showcased at IAAPA Expo 2026 in Orlando this November.
PeopleMover by Maurer Rides
The German amusement ride manufacturer shared a preview of its new SPIKE PeopleMover on Instagram, promoting a new approach to passenger transportation that combines innovative ride technology with unconventional track designs.
In its announcement, which was accompanied by several works of concept art for various PeopleMover systems, Maurer Rides wrote:
Who says getting from A to B can’t be exciting?
Meet the new SPIKE® Peoplemover by Maurer Rides – rethinking mobility with innovative technology, smart design and a whole new perspective on transportation.
🚀 Discover the future of movement at IAAPA Expo Orlando 2026!
📍 Booth #S3467
More than transportation. A new way to move.
The new concept builds on Maurer Rides’ existing SPIKE technology, which uses an electrically powered rack-and-pinion drive system to propel vehicles along a track. Unlike conventional PeopleMover systems, SPIKE technology can accommodate steep inclines, tight curves, and even vertical track sections.
Maurer Rides envisions applications beyond traditional amusement rides, including transportation systems for resorts, airports, and urban environments. The company describes its approach as “Transportainment,” combining practical transportation with an entertaining passenger experience.
Maurer Rides will showcase its new PeopleMover concept at IAAPA Expo 2026, taking place November 16–20 at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando. The trade show floor will be open November 17–20, with Maurer Rides exhibiting at booth S3467.
Although Maurer Rides’ new system is unrelated to Disney’s attractions, the PeopleMover concept has a long history at Disney Parks.
Walt Disney envisioned an innovative transportation system capable of moving passengers efficiently through cities and surrounding communities. The technology that eventually powered Disney’s PeopleMover was developed from the ride system used in Ford’s Magic Skyway at the 1964–1965 New York World’s Fair.
The first dedicated PeopleMover attraction opened at Disneyland on July 2, 1967, carrying guests along elevated tracks through Tomorrowland. The attraction closed in 1995, although much of its original track infrastructure remains in place today. Portions of the former PeopleMover track were recently covered with tarps as work continues around Disneyland’s Tomorrowland.
The Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover at Magic Kingdom opened on July 1, 1975, and continues operating today. Unlike the original Disneyland attraction, which used rotating wheels embedded in its track, the Walt Disney World version uses linear induction motors to propel its vehicles.
Maurer Rides has not announced any connection between its new SPIKE PeopleMover system and Disney Parks.
The upcoming IAAPA Expo will also feature several prominent Disney creatives. As previously reported, Disney Legends Joe Rohde, Bob Weis, and Leslie Iwerks will headline sessions at the event.
Tell us about your experiences with PeopleMover systems beyond Disney Parks on social media!
For the latest Disney Parks news and info, follow WDW News Today on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.
The post New PeopleMover System by Maurer Rides Teased for IAAPA Expo Orlando 2026 appeared first on WDW News Today.
