Dive Coaster

The Dive Coaster is a steel roller coaster model developed and engineered by Bolliger & Mabillard. The design features one or more near- or beyond-vertical drops ranging from 87° to 96° steep, which provides a moment of free-falling for passengers. The experience is enhanced by unique trains that seat up to ten riders per row, spanning only two or three rows total. Unlike traditional train design, this distinguishing aspect gives all passengers virtually the same experience throughout the course of the ride. Another defining characteristic of Dive Coasters is the holding brake at the top of the lift hill that holds the train momentarily right as it enters the first drop, suspending some passengers with a view looking straight down and releasing suddenly moments later. Development of the Dive Coaster began between 1994 and 1995 with Oblivion at Alton Towers opening on 14 March 1998, making it the world's first Dive Coaster. The trains for this type of coaster are relatively short consisting of two to three cars. B&M also uses floorless trains on this model to enhance the experience. As of July 2026, nineteen Dive Coasters have been built, with the newest being Tormenta Rampaging Run at Six Flags Over Texas. Tormenta Rampaging Run is currently the world's tallest, longest, and fastest Dive Coaster, featuring a height of 94.2 m (309 ft), a length of 1,280 m (4,200 ft), and a maximum speed of 140 km/h (87 mph).