Amtrak chose Indianapolis and Poinciana with the intention of each serving as central "collector" locations serving large market areas.[4] Rather than being the end-destinations for travelers, these would be convenient locations along their travel.[4]
Amtrak paid Auto-Liner of Omaha, Nebraska, $500,000 to modify twenty autoracks. A test run from Indianapolis to Florida took place on April 30, 1974, carrying sedansrented from Avis.[5][3] Unfortunately, the autoracks damaged the automobiles when run at passenger train speeds due to issues with the tie downs.[3]
Amtrak constructed the Poinciana station at a cost of $1 million to ultimately serve as a Florida terminal for the service.[3][6] The station was opened in September 1974 for the Floridian and Champion.[7] Plans were that this station would not only serve as the terminus of AutoTrak, but as Amtrak's official station to serve passengers heading to the nearby Walt Disney World resort.[4] At the time, AutoTrak service was planned to start later that year.[7]
AutoTrak trains were again experimentally operated beginning in May 1975.[1][4] Interim equipment was used, with plans for newer and improved equipment to be ordered.[4] The service was ultimately cancelled due to lack of equipment and an "unfavorable economic projection".[3]
The Auto-Train Corporation operated a route of its own between the Midwest and Florida (Louisville–Sanford) from May 24, 1974 until September 3, 1977. Unlike the main Auto-Train route, it was not revived by Amtrak.[3]
