‘Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift’ Becomes Universal’s Fastest Roller Coaster

Avatar photoHrvoje Milakovic
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Universal Studios Hollywood has long been known for transforming its most popular film franchises into immersive experiences, from Super Nintendo World to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. This tradition has recently welcomed its latest and fastest addition, centered around one of the studio’s most successful box office franchises.

The ‘Fast & Furious‘ franchise has grossed over $7 billion globally since its launch more than two decades ago, establishing itself as Universal Pictures’ largest and longest-running franchise. With the saga celebrating its 25th anniversary this year and another film, ‘Fast Forever,’ scheduled for release in March 2028, the timing was perfect for the park to introduce a dedicated thrill ride for the series.

This ride has officially opened its doors. ‘Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift’ debuted at Universal Studios Hollywood, and it has been confirmed as the fastest roller coaster in the entire Universal Destinations & Experiences portfolio, achieving speeds unmatched by any other coaster in the company’s global lineup.

The attraction accelerates to 72 miles per hour over 4,100 feet of aerial track, utilizing cutting-edge 360-degree rotational technology that spins each ride vehicle to replicate the feeling of drifting. Riders experience the thrill inside one of four vehicles inspired by the film series, including a Dodge Charger, Mazda RX-7, Nissan Skyline GT-R, and Toyota Supra, all secured with lap-bar harnesses as the coaster navigates a dual-launching, split-track layout featuring four separate launches, an inverted dive loop, a pretzel loop, and an inverted stall.

The coaster is housed within a large red brick, garage-style structure on the Upper Lot, featuring two stationary prop car replicas near the entrance for photo opportunities before guests even enter the queue. The ride’s aerial track weaves through various sections of the park, including looping directly over the multi-level escalator that connects the Upper and Lower Lots.

Reaching this milestone took years of visible construction and testing. The project was first hinted at with concept art in 2025, followed by track construction milestones throughout 2025 and early 2026, technical rehearsals, and a soft opening period that drew some noise complaints from nearby residents before the ride’s full, official debut. Universal utilized this rehearsal period to refine the experience ahead of the grand opening.

For Universal Studios Hollywood, this addition complements an already impressive lineup of franchise-driven attractions, joining Super Nintendo World’s ‘Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge,’ the Wizarding World of Harry Potter’s flagship rides, ‘Jurassic World: The Ride,’ and Illumination’s Minion-themed attractions. A second version of the coaster is also planned for Universal Studios Florida, expected to open in 2027, ensuring East Coast fans of the franchise won’t have to wait long for their chance to experience the record-setting speeds.

With its combination of record-breaking speed and franchise legacy, ‘Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift’ is set to become one of the park’s signature attractions for years to come.

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