Theme Park Scope

Universal Orlando’s next major roller coaster is growing taller by the day.

Construction continues to accelerate on Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift at Universal Studios Florida, and one of the attraction’s most anticipated elements just took another major step forward.

New aerial photos reveal that Universal has added additional track to the coaster’s massive 170-foot spike element, bringing the towering structure closer to its final form. The latest installation is part of what will become one of the most recognizable features of the new coaster when it opens in 2027.

The Spike Continues to Take Shape

The newest construction update shows crews installing additional gray track sections onto the spike structure, which now rises prominently above the former Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit site.

The spike is one of the signature elements of Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift and will send riders nearly 17 stories into the air over the edge of Universal CityWalk before reversing direction. Universal previously confirmed that the attraction will feature a 170-foot vertical spike, making it one of the most dramatic moments on the coaster.

The latest photos also show continued progress on the spike’s blue support structure, with additional support columns now in place around the growing element. Several track and support pieces remain staged nearby, suggesting construction will continue moving quickly in the coming weeks.

Speed Hill Progress Continues

In addition to work on the spike, crews have also been making progress on the coaster’s speed hill.

Newly installed track now provides a clearer look at how guests will transition through this portion of the ride before entering other high-speed elements throughout the layout. The speed hill is beginning to emerge as another highly visible section of the coaster from both inside Universal Studios Florida and surrounding areas.

Announced earlier this year, Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift will replace Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit and bring an entirely new thrill experience to Universal Studios Florida. The attraction is being designed around the franchise’s signature drifting action and will feature rotating ride vehicles that simulate the sensation of drifting through high-speed maneuvers.

Universal says riders will experience:

• 360-degree drifting sensations
• High-speed launches and maneuvers
• A 170-foot vertical spike
• Views extending over the outskirts of Universal CityWalk

The coaster is currently scheduled to open in 2027.

With each new piece of track installed, Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift is becoming a larger part of the Universal Orlando skyline.

The spike element in particular is already proving difficult to miss, and once completed, it will serve as one of the most visible coaster features anywhere at Universal Orlando Resort.

As construction continues throughout the summer, guests can expect even more track, supports, and major ride elements to be added as Universal races toward the attraction’s 2027 debut.

Stay tuned to Theme Park Scope for more Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift construction updates, Universal Orlando Resort news, and breaking theme park developments.