ORLANDO, Fla. — Universal Orlando’s next major roller coaster is inching toward another construction milestone — literally.
Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift at Universal Studios Florida is nearing the end of pull-through testing, with a test vehicle reaching the final hill before the brake run, according to the latest construction update provided.
The outdoor coaster is scheduled to open in 2027, bringing riders a 360-degree drifting experience and a 170-foot vertical spike that will send them nearly 17 stories above the outskirts of Universal CityWalk, according to Universal.
What’s happening on the track?
Crews have been moving a test vehicle through the coaster’s overbanked section and final stretches of track as they work through this phase of testing.
Unlike full-speed runs, pull-through testing slowly moves a vehicle along the track so crews can check clearances. The coaster began testing in September and reached its towering vertical spike earlier this month, according to construction coverage featuring aerial photos by bioreconstruct.
The latest progress does not mean the attraction is ready for riders. Pull-through testing is a step toward eventually operating the coaster under its own power.
Work continues around the station
Beyond the track, crews have finished building up cinder-block walls in the station area, have been installing drive tires and are wrapping up facade and wiring work around the mid-course brake run, according to the supplied construction update.
Those projects are moving forward alongside the slow trip through the coaster’s layout, as the attraction takes shape ahead of its announced debut next year.
What can riders expect?
Universal says Hollywood Drift will combine outdoor coaster thrills with the sensation of 360-degree drifting. Its signature 170-foot spike will rise near CityWalk, making the element part of the resort’s skyline as well as the ride experience.
Universal’s announced opening window remains 2027.
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