Key Global Manufacturers in the Roller Coaster Industry Today

Major Roller Coaster Manufacturers Leaders in Amusement Park Innovation

Roller coasters have long been a staple of amusement parks, thrilling riders with adrenaline-pumping drops, high-speed turns, and innovative designs. The demand for unique and exhilarating rides has led to the emergence of several renowned roller coaster manufacturers, each contributing its expertise and creativity to the industry. This article will explore some of the major players in the roller coaster manufacturing business, highlighting their distinctive contributions to the world of thrill rides.

1. Intamin Amusement Rides

Founded in 1967, Intamin is one of the most prominent roller coaster manufacturers in the world. The company, based in Switzerland, is known for creating some of the longest and fastest roller coasters globally. Intamin is responsible for groundbreaking rides such as Fury 325, located at Carowinds in North Carolina, which has garnered acclaim for its height and speed. Another noteworthy creation is Kingda Ka, located at Six Flags Great Adventure in New Jersey, which holds the title for the tallest roller coaster in the world. Intamin's innovative designs often incorporate advanced technology and elements that enhance the rider experience, leading to rides that push the limits of engineering and thrill.

2. B&M (Bolliger & Mabillard)

Bolliger & Mabillard, commonly referred to as B&M, has established itself as a leader in the roller coaster manufacturing industry since its inception in 1988. Based in Switzerland, B&M is renowned for its smooth and comfortable rides, characterized by their distinctive designs and high-quality engineering. Notable creations include Millennium Force at Cedar Point and Shambhala at PortAventura, both of which showcase the company's expertise in crafting hypercoasters and mega coasters. B&M's signature inverted coasters allow riders to experience suspension as their feet dangle freely, creating a sense of weightlessness and thrill.

3. Morgan Manufacturing

Morgan Manufacturing, founded in 1988 and based in the United States, is known for its steel roller coasters that offer unique designs and exciting experiences. One of their standout creations is the Tallest and Fastest coaster, Steel Phantom, located at Kennywood Park in Pennsylvania. The company is recognized for pushing the boundaries of coaster height, speed, and inversions, often collaborating with parks to create custom designs tailored to specific landscapes and themes.

4. Gerstlauer Amusement Rides

Emerging from Germany, Gerstlauer Amusement Rides has made a mark in the industry since its founding in 1982. The company specializes in compact coasters that maximize thrill while fitting into smaller spaces, making them a popular choice for urban amusement parks. Gerstlauer is known for its looping coasters, such as Euro-Fighter and Infinity Coaster, which utilize innovative technology to deliver intense loops and drops while maintaining rider comfort. Their designs often feature vertical lifts and rapid descents, creating an exhilarating experience for thrill-seekers.

5. Rocky Mountain Construction (RMC)

In recent years, Rocky Mountain Construction has garnered attention for its innovative approach to roller coaster design. Specializing in transforming older wooden coasters into modern hybrid attractions, RMC has redefined what is possible in the industry. Their notable projects include Steel Vengeance at Cedar Point, which boasts a record number of airtime hills and inversions. RMC's commitment to marrying classic wooden structures with steel components has set a new standard for coaster experiences, attracting new generations of thrill-seekers.

Conclusion

The roller coaster industry is continuously evolving, with manufacturers pushing the boundaries of creativity and engineering to deliver thrilling experiences to riders around the world. Companies like Intamin, B&M, Morgan Manufacturing, Gerstlauer, and RMC have established themselves as leaders in this competitive market, each contributing their unique designs and innovations. As technology advances and the demand for new experiences persists, these manufacturers will undoubtedly continue to shape the landscape of amusement parks for years to come, ensuring that the thrill of roller coasters remains a cherished pastime for future generations.