Universal Hollywood is about to give the word “Family” a brand new meaning.
Universal Studios Hollywood has reportedly concluded construction of its first-ever high-speed outdoor launch coaster. The Fast and Furious-themed attraction, expected to open late 2025 or early 2026, will be a thrilling addition to the park’s collection of cutting-edge rides. This new coaster aims to bring the fast-paced world of the Fast and Furious franchise to life in a much more intense way than its Orlando counterpart.
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Expanding the Upper Lot with a Thrilling New “Fast and Furious” Coaster
The development of the Fast and Furious coaster marks an ambitious step for Universal Studios Hollywood, which has traditionally focused its major thrill attractions in other areas of the park. The coaster is being built on the upper lot, which has historically been less populated with high-speed rides, making this new project a significant expansion in what the park offers.
Construction on the ride has progressed rapidly, with visible infrastructure now towering above the park. Steel supports for the track, along with the coaster’s signature twists and turns, are already in place. The ride will draw from the series’ iconic car chases, street racing scenes, and action-packed moments, putting guests in the heart of an intense high-speed pursuit.
Integrating Digital and Physical Effects
One of the most exciting aspects of this new attraction is the integration of both physical elements and digital storytelling. Much like Universal’s other successful attractions, such as Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey and The Simpsons Ride, the Fast and Furious coaster will combine real-time physical sensations with digital effects that intensify the ride’s story. Riders will feel as though they are racing through the streets in a high-performance car, surrounded by explosions, tight turns, and obstacles, all while experiencing the rush of acceleration, nitro and G-forces.
Guests will be immersed in a cinematic experience, adding a layer of excitement that aligns with Universal’s strategy of combining movie magic with theme park thrills.
Expanding Universal’s Thrill Portfolio
The Fast and Furious coaster is part of Universal’s broader effort to diversify its portfolio of attractions and appeal to both fans of high-intensity thrill rides and the extensive audience of Fast and Furious film enthusiasts. With the success of attractions like Super Nintendo World and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, the addition of this coaster is part of the park’s strategy to stay competitive in the crowded Southern California theme park market. This new roller coaster will also serve as a focal point in the upper lot, complementing existing attractions while positioning Universal Studios Hollywood as a destination for both casual visitors and thrill-seekers alike.
Additionally, in the Orlando park, Fast and Furious: Supercharged includes a “family room” that features a nod to Paul Walker – the actor of Officer Brian O’Connor – who tragically passed away in 2013. The setting includes photos of Paul throughout the movies, and a bottle of Corona poured out on a table, signifying the actor’s hard work, love, and dedication in the franchise. If Universal were to add something like this into the queue for the Hollywood coaster, his tribute may help bring in more people who were impacted by his memory, as many fans of the franchise have spoken positively about the tribute.
Opening Timeline and Future Outlook for “Fast and Furious: Hollywood Drift”
Though an official opening date has not been set, Universal has speculated that the coaster will open between late 2025 and early 2026. If released around April, this timing would align with the final film in the Fast and Furious franchise – “Fast X, Part 2” – which could potentially boost interest in the ride, attracting sentimental fans looking to recapture to feeling of their favorite childhood franchise, even if the cinematic version truly ends forever.
Check Back for More from Theme Park Shark
Check back soon, as Theme Park Shark will continue to bring you updates on the new Fast and Furious: Hollywood Drift coaster at Universal Studios Hollywood! In the meantime, check out Theme Park Shark on your favorite social media platform, like Twitter, TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube, and expect to see plenty of updates from Theme Park Shark as we keep tabs on this exciting new addition to the upper lot, as well as theme park news from Disney, Universal, and theme parks from all across the world!
