On Tuesday, I spent the morning at SeaWorld in Orlando as they unveiled the new ride vehicle for the Mako hypercoaster which opens this summer. You may remember that last summer I introduced you to Mako- which will be the tallest, fastest, and longest roller coaster in Orlando.
When we arrived backstage there was a large crate in front of us. The crate was lifted up by a crane to reveal one of the beautiful lead cars for the 3 Mako trains.
Mako’s design and engineering was inspired by the real Mako shark – one of the ocean’s fastest shark species. When it opens, Mako will top 200 feet high and reach speeds of 73 mph on a track that’s nearly a mile long. The new ride will be a hypercoaster, which means it’s all about speed, tight turns and that weightless feeling riders get at the top of each hill.
Mako Coaster Train Design Facts Include:
- Mako-Inspired Custom Car – In a collaboration between SeaWorld’s animal experts and ride engineers, the car is inspired by the physiology of an actual Mako shark, including five gills on each side, eye placement and sleek, hydro-dynamic look.
- Fast Wheels– Comprised of a special compound that reduces friction — providing a smooth, relentlessly fast ride from beginning to end.
- Magnetic Brakes-Activated by interaction between metal plates under the car’s frame and stationary megnets on the ride track.
- Upper Body Mobility – With only a lap guard on their lower body, riders’ upper bodies are free for added mobility and “airtime”
- The coaster will boast a total of 21 cars – including 3 trains of 7 cars per train. Each train weighs 21,418 pounds.
Will you be riding Mako when it opens this summer? I won’t be but my son Jordan cannot wait for the grand opening!
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