Universal Studios Hollywood Fast & Furious roller coaster includes drifting
Universal Studios Hollywood has entered technical rehearsals for Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift, giving some guests an early chance to experience the park's first high-speed outdoor roller coaster. The attraction began trial operations with the public on July 27, 2026, although operation is not guaranteed while testing continues.
Universal has not yet announced an official grand opening date. Before visiting, check the Universal Studios Hollywood attraction page or the park app for current operating information.
Ride Details and Innovation
Located on the Upper Lot, Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift uses a launched coaster system designed to create the sensation of drifting through individually rotating ride vehicles. Developed by Universal Creative and manufactured by Intamin, the attraction uses an LSM launch system to propel riders to speeds of up to 72 mph across 4,100 feet of track.
The individually rotating vehicles create the sensation of drifting as they spin through the course. Inspired by the Fast & Furious film franchise, the attraction combines high-speed launches with a ride system designed to continually shift the orientation of each vehicle.
Each train features four vehicles themed to cars from the films : a Dodge Charger, Mazda RX-7, Nissan Skyline GT-R, and Toyota Supra.
Inside the loading area, guests will find an original mural by Los Angeles artist Tristan Eaton depicting the street-racing finale from the original Fast & Furious film.
The coaster occupies the former Animal Actors on Location and Special Effects Stage area on the Upper Lot. A second Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift is under construction at Universal Studios Florida and is scheduled to open in 2027, replacing Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit.
Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift uses a launched coaster system designed to create the sensation of drifting through individually rotating ride vehicles.Los Angeles Times / Getty Images
Addressing Community Noise Concerns
The coaster's arrival has also drawn attention from neighboring communities. Residents in Toluca Lake have reported hearing rider screams during testing, prompting concerns about the attraction's impact on nearby homes.
Universal has confirmed plans for two additional sound barriers as part of ongoing noise mitigation efforts. Construction on the barriers is expected to be completed by early September.
The attraction remains in technical rehearsals as Universal prepares for its official opening. Until then, operation can vary from day to day.
What to Know Before Visiting
For now, Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift remains in technical rehearsals, so the opportunity to ride can vary from day to day. Guests hoping to catch the coaster during a visit should check Universal Studios Hollywood's official attraction page or app before arriving.
The coaster is still slated to officially open in Summer 2026. Once it begins regular operations, Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift is expected to become one of the park's major headline attractions, adding another high-speed experience to the Upper Lot.
Related: Disney World just added more pieces to future park lineup
This story was originally published by TravelHost on Aug 25, 2026, where it first appeared in the News section. Add TravelHost as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
