Some Wildwood Tram Cars Retired as They Begin Hybrid and Electric Era

Some Wildwood Tram Cars Retired as They Begin Hybrid and Electric Era

The Wildwoods’ iconic Sightseer Tram Cars are entering a new chapter.

After more than seven decades rolling along the Boardwalk, the Wildwoods Boardwalk Special Improvement District is testing hybrid and all-electric models to ensure the iconic yellow-and-blue trams keep running for generations to come.

While new engines promise a better and more sustainable future, the WSID is also preserving the fleet’s history, retiring older power units with care and even working with the Wildwood Historical Society to save one for display.

The Wildwood Video Archive reached out to the Wildwoods Boardwalk Special Improvement District after photos appeared online that showcased one of the tram cars in a dumpster off the island. 

Below is a statement from the Wildwoods Boardwalk Special Improvement District.

PRESS RELEASE

The Wildwoods Sightseer Tram Cars have been a part of our Boardwalk family since 1949 and we know how much they mean to generations of visitors and locals alike. 

Since taking over operations in 2003, the Wildwoods Boardwalk Special Improvement District (WSID) has been hard at work modernizing the fleet while keeping its classic charm alive.

So far, we’ve built three replica Tram Car passenger trains, one exact replica engine, and the fan-favorite “Sunny” engine.

In 2025, we began testing new Hybrid and All-Electric options, including a Hybrid Electric Ford Maverick, as part of our commitment to finding a safe, affordable, and environmentally friendly power source for the future of the Tram Cars.

As we introduce new engines, some of the original power units, now beyond repair, are being respectfully retired.

Also See: Wildwood’s Giant Wheel Hub Removed As Major Refurbishment Continues

We’ve salvaged usable parts, are responsibly recycling materials, and have reached out to the Wildwood Historical Society about preserving one for future generations. (The Wildwood Historical Society  is located at 3907 Pacific Ave in the heart of Wildwood)

We know how special the Tram Cars are; they’re more than just transportation; they’re memories on wheels.

Wildwoods Boardwalk Special Improvement District is proud to protect this beloved Wildwoods tradition while ensuring it can safely and sustainably carry over 600,000 passengers a year for decades to come.

END OF PRESS RELEASE 

The announcement brings reassurance to fans who were concerned after the photos surfaced online.

While it’s always bittersweet to see the older Tram Cars retired, the effort to preserve one for display means that a piece of Wildwood’s summer history will continue to live on for future generations to enjoy.

For now, the WSID’s focus remains on keeping the Tram Cars both nostalgic and sustainable a perfect blend of Wildwood’s past and future.

Visitors can expect to see testing of the hybrid and electric models continue through next season as the Boardwalk’s most famous ride rolls confidently into its next era.

What kind of hybrid do you want to see up on the boardwalk? 

Have you ever wondered how the tram cars are stored for the winter? The WVA stopped by last winter and filmed the whole thing. Check it out below (and please subscribe)