Playland, a leading Canadian amusement park, is opening its $16 million ThunderVolt coaster this weekend.
The new attraction by Zamperla, a leading ride manufacturer, is Canada’s fastest electric launch coaster. ThunderVolt boasts a total track length of 380 metres, and a maximum height of 18 metres.
It can carry 12 riders at a time through a “supernatural environment with extraordinary animals, graphics and lighting that pulses as the ride system charges, leading up to its launch”, Playland owner Pacific National Exhibition (PNE) says.
PNE president and CEO Shelley Frost previously said the ThunderVolt name “reflected the ride experience: speed and electricity, while being rooted in nature”.
“We anticipate it will be immediately embraced by Playland coaster enthusiasts due to its unique and thrilling features, as the coaster strikes that perfect balance between fun and thrill and will be an impressive addition to Playland’s ride roster in 2024,” she said.
Highlights of new LSM launch coaster include a g-force of 1.3 through an illuminated tunnel, and a steep incline before an 18-metre drop.
Zamperla’s North American sales manager Michael Coleman said last year: “This LSM coaster will be the fastest launch coaster in Canada.
“Playland and Zamperla have a long partnership, and their team started discussions with us over a year ago about their long-term planning and helping them grow the park’s offerings.”
Canada’s fastest electric launch coaster
In addition to the new ThunderVolt ride, Pacific National Exhibition in Vancouver is building a new outdoor amphitheatre.
In a recent interview with blooloop, Frost said: “While we are busy investing in the amphitheatre, we have decided to defer the full growth and redevelopment of Playland.
“Until the amphitheatre is complete, we are continuing to invest in Playland’s current footprint. We have put in 13 new rides since 2004.”
Images courtesy of Pacific National Exhibition
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