Universal Studios Hollywood has begun testing its upcoming roller‑coaster attraction, Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift, scheduled to open in 2026. The ride will reach a top speed of 72 mph, making it the fastest roller coaster within the Universal Destinations & Experiences portfolio.
Key Features
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The ride will span 4,100 feet of track.
- Top speeds will reach 72 mph.
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The vehicles will be capable of 360‑degree rotation, enabling what is described as a “drifting” sensation as they navigate the track.
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The queue will be located on the park’s Upper Lot, inside a large, red‑brick “garage‑style” structure.
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The ride vehicles are modeled after authentic cars from the Fast & Furious film franchise, including one based on Dominic Toretto’s 1970 Dodge Charger.
Location & Context
The attraction is being built at Universal Studios Hollywood’s Upper Lot.
Universal Plaza in Universal Studios Hollywood – YouTube, DocumentDisney
The press release indicates the track will wind over parts of the theme park, including the escalator area connecting the Upper and Lower Lots.
Comparative Significance
By its 72 mph speed mark, the ride will exceed existing Universal parks’ attractions in terms of top speed. The use of the rotating vehicle design is highlighted by the park as a technological achievement intended to replicate the drifting effect common in the film series.
Construction & Announcement Timeline
In May 2024, Universal announced the ride for a 2026 opening, and disclosed general elements such as the vehicle rotation and immersive theming. On June 12, 2025, renderings and an animatic video were released showing the ride vehicle and track layout.
The Springfield Sign in the Universal Studios Orlando Simpsons land – YouTube, The Simpsons Theory
Reports suggest that by April 2025 track installation was largely complete and sound‑reduction technology is incorporated in the design. Recently, Universal has begun testing trains of four vehicles.
Theme & Integration
Universal states that the ride is designed to immerse guests in the high‑speed universe of the film franchise. The vehicle models, garage‑style entry, and aerial track routing are intended to align with the film’s visual and narrative themes.
Uncertainties & Notes
The ride is confirmed to open in 2026, but no specific date has been announced.
Although press materials describe a drifting-style experience using rotating vehicles, full details about the layout—such as the number of inversions or ride duration—have not been disclosed by official sources.
Implications
The addition of Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift reflects Universal Studios Hollywood’s continued focus on expanding and modernizing its offerings. In recent years, the park has introduced several new experiences, including SUPER NINTENDO WORLD and revised dinosaur-themed attractions. This new coaster appears to follow the same strategy by introducing a high-thrill ride based on a well-known franchise.
Universal Experiences CEO Mark Woodbury and Mario/Donkey Kong Creator Shigeru Miyamoto in Super Nintendo World at Epic Universe – Photo Credit: NBC Universal
The attraction is presented as a major high-speed addition to the park. With a top speed of 72 mph, a 4,100-foot track, and vehicles capable of 360-degree rotation, it marks a technical shift for Universal’s ride portfolio. While promotional materials emphasize immersive design and innovation, key details such as ride duration, capacity, and exact opening date have not yet been confirmed.
What do you think of the upcoming Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift roller coaster? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.
