Get ready for an adrenaline-pumping thrill ride as we dive into the exciting construction updates of the upcoming Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift roller coaster at Universal Orlando!
The Ultimate Racing Experience Awaits!
Universal Orlando Resort has dropped a major announcement, revealing that the Fast & Furious franchise is taking over Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit, and we've got exclusive aerial photos to give you a sneak peek into the transformation.
Construction in Full Swing
The Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift roller coaster is set to replace its predecessor, and our aerial images showcase the progress. A service building is taking shape, currently in its steel framework stage. The area is buzzing with construction equipment and concrete forms, which will soon support the coaster's thrilling twists and turns.
A Bird's Eye View
From above, we can see the station's location in relation to the New York section of Universal Studios Florida. There's also another project underway in front of the sound stages. Many concrete forms have been dug and poured, surrounding the former firehouse entrance where the Rip Ride Rockit track once ran. It's intriguing to speculate whether the station will remain, as the Fast & Furious ride vehicles might be too large to fit through the same path.
Progress Captured
Our trusted source, @bioreconstruct, captured some concrete forms being moved into place during their flyover. Construction and preparation work are also evident behind Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon. Near Music Plaza, a concrete form has been strategically placed, potentially marking the spot for the Fast & Furious ride photo, which was previously aimed at the big drop of Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit.
A Closer Look
Additional photos reveal ongoing work near Music Plaza, showcasing dirt work and framing progress where the Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit station once stood. The coaster's construction is visible from CityWalk, and although a walkway remains accessible around the site, it's clear that the project is taking up a significant amount of space beyond the former Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit footprint. Interestingly, the former Blue Man Group theater at the back of the site remains untouched.
Concrete Progress
A series of completed concrete footers and forms have been strategically placed around the area. Tall forms are in position to cast more concrete footers, and metal poles have been installed, surrounded by temporary yellow fencing. As we move closer to the Universal Studios Florida entrance, another section of land is cordoned off with caution tape, revealing a hole with prep work for footers. Crew members were hard at work when the photos were taken.
Electrical Work and More
The Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift construction site also features electrical conduit work, which is protected by yellow fencing. Nearby, the latest sheet foundation cast for the roller coaster is making progress. Closer to the Hard Rock Cafe and the waterline, metal cylindrical frames are in place, also intended for future footers. The attractions carpentry shop is located in this area, so much of the staging will occur here.
The California Version vs. Florida
The first version of Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift is set to open at Universal Studios Hollywood this year, featuring 4,100 feet of track, sound reduction technology, and 360-degree rotation for an immersive drifting experience. However, due to differences in land topography, the Florida version of Hollywood Drift won't be an exact replica of its California counterpart. While the California version is situated on a mountainside, the Florida version will be built in a long, flat space. Nevertheless, it's expected to maintain the same theming and drifting effects, creating an exhilarating ride experience.
Opening Soon
The official announcement states that the new ride will open its doors in 2027. Are you ready to experience the thrill of Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift in Florida? Share your excitement on social media and join the conversation!
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