Zamperla Lightning train vehicle revealed at IAAPA

Two weeks after Pacific National Exhibition (PNE) in Vancouver announced the purchase of Canada’s fastest launch coaster – the Lighting LSM Coaster – the ride-ready Zamperla Lightning train vehicle has been unveiled at the global attractions industry’s premier event, IAAPA Expo, in Orlando, Fla.

Dubbed “the best roller coaster train in the world,” the Lightning train vehicle was developed by engineers at Zamperla to optimize the Italian amusement ride manufacturer’s core design values, including safety, ergonomics, and fun.

“This Lightning train, and the Lightning LSM coaster project in Playland at the PNE, is confirmation that the investments made in people and technologies over the past five years in our Roller Coaster Business Unit are bearing fruit,” said Zamperla Group CEO Antonio Zamperla. “In every market segment we have entered (kiddie rides, family rides, and thrill rides), we have excelled because of our commitment to quality and innovation. I know our roller coaster division will see the same success.”

Essential features of the Lightning vehicle are its aluminum-milled chassis, which weighs less than almost any other train of this type, and its wheels, which can withstand high acceleration on some of the world’s fastest attractions.

In addition, the Zamperla Lightning train vehicle was designed for rider comfort. According to Zamperla Roller Coaster Sales and Marketing Director Adam Sandy, the seats can accommodate guests with a wide range of body sizes; the placement of restraint tubing will eliminate the “head banging” that can occur with a traditional, over-the-shoulder restraint; and the lap bar fits right on the upper thigh, which allows for a comfortable ride.

“We are very pleased to be part of today’s announcement at IAAPA, the leading industry event for our sector,” says PNE President and CEO Shelley Frost. “Our Playland division is known around the world for our historic Wooden Coaster, and to be able to work with our long-time partner, Zamperla, to bring a state-of-the-art launch coaster is a very exciting edition to our park. Today’s announcement signals a new era for Playland.”