Lightning Launch at PNE

lightning launch at Playland at the PNE

Playland at the PNE (Pacific National Exhibition) asked our team to provide a replacement for their venerable Corkscrew Coaster, which anchored a corner of the classic Vancouver amusement park. We provided a launch coaster that was powered by LSM’s (linear synchronous motors) that accelerated riders on the fastest launch in Canada.

The ride begins with a launch into a twisting Top Hat. Afterwards riders fly through a figure eight with several different changes of direction before they are slowed by the magnetic brakes. The project was completed as part of a massive refurbishment of the PNE’s facilities and designed around a large amphitheater project adjacent to the roller coaster site.

"It's one of the best rides I've ever been on. It's so fast at the beginning, and then you kind of settle into it. I would give it five stars.”

(Lana Popham, British Columbia’s Tourism and Culture Minister)

About the ride

Track Length 380 m (1246 ft)
Track Height 18 m (60 ft)
Footprint 105 x 33 m (344 x 108 ft)
Max Speed 72 km/h (45 mph)
Number of trains 1
Number of passengers per train 12
Theoretical Hourly Capacity 520 pph
Height restriction 120 cm (48 in) minimum
LIGHTNING LAUNCH
Customer service Spare parts Zamperla customer Portal