Disney World has unleashed a fleet of Minnie vans to make the “happiest place on earth” a little less “the most exhausting place on earth.”
And while that brings a smile to many peoples faces, the news is a bit of a scourge to Uber, which had hoped Disney would partner with them, but the theme park has opted to go with competitor Lyft.
For a flat $20, guests can get catch a ride in specially-arted vehicles (they’re supposed to resemble Minnie Mouse with a pink dress and while polka dots). The service is currently being tested at three hotels within Disney World, including Disney’s BoardWalk Resort and Disney’s Yacht & Beach Club Resorts.
Unlike your typical Lyft service, however, these vans are driven by Disney employees, not your average Joe looking for a few extra bucks. Also, they’re only available between 6:30 a.m. and 12:30 a.m..
According to MarketWatch, Disney chose to work with Lyft because of its “popularity and well-established user base.” But it’s hard to ignore Uber’s embattled CEO, who recently resigned on the heels of some serious PR disasters, including being caught on camera being a douche to one of his own drivers.
“As we know, Uber is having some internal problems,” Dennis Speigel, president of International Theme Park Services, told MarketWatch. “And when you think of a wholesome, family-oriented company, you think of Disney.” However, guests can still use Uber at Disney World — it’s just not part of the Minnie van service.
Lyft is having a great summer so far: In July, the ride share company launched a test program with Taco Bell providing passengers with a drive-through option. And more recently, they teamed up with Amtrak “to help close the gap between public transit and your doorstep.”
