Universal Studios Hollywood has officially announced the opening date for its highly anticipated outdoor roller coaster, Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift. After considerable excitement, the ride will welcome its first guests on Wednesday, September 16. This announcement comes after a previous error where the park mistakenly listed June 26 as the launch date, prompting immediate reactions from coaster enthusiasts on social media.
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The theme park revealed the correct information on August 31, following a mix-up about the attraction’s debut. In a statement addressing the confusion, Universal Studios Hollywood acknowledged the mistake and expressed eagerness for the ride’s launch, noting, “Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift will open this summer and we look forward to sharing its official opening date soon.”
Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift is not just Universal Studios’ first outdoor roller coaster but also a celebration of the beloved Fast & Furious film franchise, which marks its 25th anniversary this year. This exhilarating ride features rotating vehicles designed to replicate the thrilling drifting scenes from the popular movies starring Vin Diesel and Michelle Rodriguez, and will reach an impressive top speed of 72 mph.
Covering a notable length of 4,100 feet of track, the ride is designed for an immersive experience, utilising sound reduction technology to enhance the atmosphere. The attraction’s design includes stunning hot rod vehicles that are inspired by iconic cars from the films, such as the Dodge Charger and the Toyota Supra. Guests will find themselves seated in these flashy vehicles as they embark on a high-octane adventure.
Positioned strategically across from The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, the new roller coaster’s track will traverse over the park’s signature entrance escalators, creating a visually striking experience right from the moment guests step into the park. This location also enhances the excitement, giving an additional thrill to parkgoers as they witness the ride unfold.
The launch of Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift coincides with a significant milestone as the franchise prepares to release its last film, Fast Forever, on March 17, 2028. The most recent entry into the series, Fast X, debuted in 2023, further energising the fanbase as anticipation builds for both the film’s conclusion and the new theme park attraction.
In a parallel development, Universal Orlando Resort has announced plans to introduce a version of Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift in 2027. However, the Florida installation will feature a distinct track layout that includes an exhilarating 170-foot vertical “spike,” providing a gravity-defying experience for riders.
As excitement mounts ahead of the opening, theme park enthusiasts and fans of the Fast & Furious franchise can prepare for an unforgettable experience this autumn. With both parks embracing this iconic series, Universal Studios continues to enhance its attractions to cater to the thrill-seeking audience and loyal fans alike.
As we await further updates and sneak peeks leading up to the grand opening, one thing is clear: Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift aims to leave an indelible mark on the roller coaster landscape, promising adventure and excitement that reflects the spirit of its cinematic inspiration.
Prospective visitors can continue to follow Universal Studios Hollywood for more details on the opening and the immersive experiences awaiting them on this thrilling new ride.