For the moment I think there is a really strong point to be made that the Auto Train stands to see a significant increase in business from travel to Cuba. Although I would agree that rentals on the island would be the usual means of transportation I am not convinced that there will initially be enough or that they will be reasonably priced. I really do think there could be a lot of people who want to travel in Cuba with their own automobiles. Perhaps even more with RVs.
George, where is the strong point?
* While I agree that a rental car infrastructure in Cuba probably needs development, it is a comparatively simple task.
* Expense? It costs ~$400/RT to ship a vehicle on the Auto Train, and, using the Novastar ferry as a proxy, about $200 for the ferry portion. So, you have a $600 bogey to overcome right there. I just looked up some rental car prices in Puerto Rico... about $35/day. Hard to believe Cuba would be much different... and Googling Havana car rentals shows it isn't.
* If the RV market is the sweet spot, Auto Train can't handle them.
* Another thing to consider: Security. Driving across the border to Canada is a no-brainer. However, would you take your vehicle to Mexico? I'm sure many would be concerned about theft (or at least the insurance requirements associated with taking an auto to such a foreign country).
* It's a foreign country, subject to temporary import permits, fees, time restrictions, etc. More pain in the butt stuff that would discourage many a tourista.