Volcano, The Blaster Coaster(TM) Utilizes Electromagnetic Energy to Blast Riders Out of 155-Foot Volcano
RICHMOND, VA. (July 22, 1997) -- Paramount's Kings Dominion has announced the introduction of the world's first linear induction suspended roller coaster with the 1998 debut of Volcano, The Blaster Coaster. The park's tenth roller coaster, Volcano will utilize electromagnetic energy to literally blast riders straight out of the top of a themed volcano.
Riders begin their journey in the heart of the mountain, suspended in their seats with legs dangling and steel track overhead. Electromagnetic energy then sends the coaster cars flying out, in and out of the mountain, at speeds of up to 70 m.p.h. Riders will then travel back into the mountain before being catapulted vertically and blasted 155 feet out of the center of the crater. After bursting out of the top of the peak, the track follows the first of four heartroll inversions, circling back and aroud the mountain before dropping another 80 feet and returning into the mountain. Extensive theming completes the 2-minute ride experience, including passing through and around waterfalls, and special effects that stimulate an active volcanic eruption.
"If it's possible to replicate the sensation of being blasted out of a rocket straight towards the sky, this is it," said Wilson H. Flohr, Jr., Paramount's Kings Dominion's executive vice president and general manager. "Utilizing linear induction technology as well as the resources of an extremely creative design team, we think that the introduction of Volcano will bring a totally unprecedented thrill to the roller coaster lover."
Worldwide industry leader Intamin AG of Switzerland and designers from Charlotte-based Paramount Parks Design and Entertainment engineered, themed and manufactured Volcano exclusively for Paramount's Kings Dominion. The ride will be located in the Congo theme area in the structure formerly known as The Lost World and will open in the spring of 1998.