Universal Studios debuts 'Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift' ride vehicles

Universal Studios 'Fast & Furious': Hollywood Drift ride cars revealed

The sleek ride vehicles will make up the park's first-ever high-speed outdoor roller coaster opening this summer.

LOS ANGELES - Universal Studios Hollywood has pulled back the curtain on the "heart" of its newest attraction, showcasing the authentic vehicle designs that will transport fans into the adrenaline-fueled world of the "Fast & Furious" saga.

What we know:

The "Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift" coaster will feature four distinct ride vehicles inspired by the franchise’s most famous cars. 

The lineup includes Dominic Toretto’s black 1970 Dodge Charger, Han Seoul-oh’s 1997 Mazda RX-7, and two vehicles famously driven by Brian O’Conner: the blue 2002 Nissan Skyline GT-R and the orange 1994 Toyota Supra.

The ride stretches 4,100 feet—roughly the length of 12 football fields – and utilizes groundbreaking 360-degree rotation technology, allowing the cars to spin while moving at 72 mph to replicate the sensation of street drifting. 

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The ride's queue and loading platform will also feature a large-scale, freehand spray-painted mural by artist Tristan Eaton, depicting the iconic finale race from the original film.

Timeline:

May 2024: Universal Studios Hollywood first announces the ride's development.

June 2025: Details regarding the track layout over the park's Starway escalators are revealed.

March 4, 2026: First look at the four unique ride vehicles is shared with the public.

Summer 2026: Official grand opening at Universal Studios Hollywood.

March 17, 2028: The next film chapter, "Fast Forever," is slated to hit theaters.

2027: The attraction is scheduled to open at Universal Orlando Resort.

What they're saying:

Scott Strobl, Executive Vice President and General Manager of Universal Studios Hollywood, described the project as a "powerful game changer" that will "infuse an entirely new level of adrenaline to our already dynamic theme park." 

What's next:

As the park puts the finishing touches on the red brick, garage-style structure on the Upper Lot, fans can expect more updates on the official opening date and potential "soft open" technical rehearsals. 

PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Fast & Furious roller coaster coming to Universal Studios Hollywood

Meanwhile, the franchise is gearing up for its 25th anniversary later this year, which will likely include additional celebrations across Universal destinations.