It’s official!! Well, almost. Here’s what we know for sure:

Disney and General Motors are partnering to develop a re-imagined Test Track experience. The current GM Test Track at Epcot will close for refurbishment in April 2012, with an anticipated opening of Test Track Presented by Chevrolet scheduled for fall 2012.

Disney has said Test Track will transform into the sleek “Chevrolet Design Studio at Epcot” with interactive design and styling workstations where we will be able to create their own custom concept vehicles. Also included will be something called a  “SimCar” ride vehicle experience where we can put our design through tests on the hills, switchbacks and straight-aways of the Test Track circuit. There will now be a post-show area filled with special effects, and we will be scored on how well our custom concept vehicle did. Disney is also updating the showroom with the actual vehicles and making it “all-new” and “state-of-the-art”. Construction permits have been filed with Orange County as of yesterday.

Unofficially, cast members who work the ride are saying they will close beginning this Sunday. Again, no official word on re-opening except that they expect we will be able to feel the wind in our hair from our test track vehicle some time in the fall of 2012. Personally, I’m a big fan of the wind-blown look, so for me it won’t be a minute too soon.