What is Vekoma Rides Manufacturing, and where is it based?

Vekoma Rides Manufacturing is a Dutch company that designs and manufactures amusement rides. Its headquarters are located in Vlodrop, within the Roerdalen municipality, in the Netherlands.

What does the name "Vekoma" signify, and when was the company founded?

Vekoma is a syllabic abbreviation derived from the name of its founder, Hendrik op het Veld, and his original company, Veld Koning Machinefabriek. The company was established in 1926.

Who was the founder of Vekoma Rides Manufacturing?

The founder of Vekoma Rides Manufacturing was Hendrik op het Veld.

What was Vekoma's initial business focus before entering the amusement ride industry?

Vekoma originally manufactured farm equipment.

How did Vekoma's business evolve in the mid-20th century?

In the 1950s, Vekoma shifted to manufacturing steel constructions for the coal mining industry. Following the closure of Dutch mines in 1965, the company produced steel pipes for the petrochemical industry.

When and how did Vekoma first become involved in the amusement ride industry?

In the 1970s, Vekoma was contracted by the American manufacturer Arrow Development to construct the steel structures for its roller coasters in Europe. Arrow Development eventually licensed its coaster-building technology to Vekoma.

When did Vekoma begin operating independently in the amusement ride market?

Vekoma entered the amusement ride market independently in 1979, opening three roller coasters that year.

What significant financial event occurred for Vekoma in 2001?

Vekoma Rides Manufacturing filed for bankruptcy on August 23, 2001.

Describe the alliance Vekoma formed with Chance Morgan in 2006.

In 2006, Vekoma formed an alliance with the U.S.-based manufacturer Chance Morgan. Chance Rides represented Vekoma in North America and manufactured steel track for some projects, building four Vekoma-designed family coasters during this agreement.

When did the cooperation agreement between Chance Rides and Vekoma for the North American market end?

The agreement between Chance Rides and Vekoma to produce rides together for the North American market was discontinued on October 17, 2012.

What business did Vekoma acquire in 2008, and what new division was created?

In 2008, Vekoma acquired the Wheels of Excellence range of Ferris wheels from Ronald Bussink. This led to the creation of a new division, Dutch Wheels BV, to manufacture smaller Ferris wheels.

What happened to Vekoma Rides Manufacturing in 2018?

On March 30, 2018, Vekoma Rides Manufacturing was acquired by Sansei Technologies, which is also the parent company of S&S Sansei. The acquisition stipulated that Vekoma's business model would remain unchanged.

How many Vekoma roller coasters were in operation or under construction as of May 2018?

As of May 2018, there were over 387 roller coasters worldwide manufactured by Vekoma, including those under construction or already removed.

What is the Bermuda Blitz roller coaster model, and where is its only known installation?

The Bermuda Blitz is a Vekoma roller coaster model featuring multiple inversions with new-generation trains. Its only known installation is Lech Coaster, located in Legendia, Poland.

Describe the Big Air roller coaster model.

The Big Air model was formerly known as a hammerhead stall due to a spinning function it once possessed. There is only one installation of this roller coaster, located at E-DA Theme Park in Taiwan.

What are the key characteristics of Vekoma's Boomerang roller coaster model?

The Boomerang is a type of shuttle roller coaster that features three inversions, a height of 117 feet (35.66 meters), and reaches speeds of 47 mph (76 km/h).

What was the Corkscrew with Bayerncurve model?

The Corkscrew with Bayerncurve was a discontinued roller coaster model produced by Vekoma, which was an adaptation of the standard Arrow Development corkscrew roller coaster design. It was first produced in 1979.

What distinguishes the Dive Pretzel Coaster model?

The Dive Pretzel Coaster is a roller coaster model that features a 90-degree climb and incorporates several pretzel loop elements. It was first produced in 2014.

What were the features of the Double Loop-Corkscrew model?

The Double Loop-Corkscrew, first produced in 1981, was a modified version of the MK-1200 model. It featured four inversions, consisting of two vertical loops and two corkscrews, along with a standard track.

What is notable about Vekoma's Flying Dutchman model?

The Flying Dutchman was the first large-scale flying roller coaster built by Vekoma. The last installation of this type, Batwing, closed in 2025.

How does the Giant Inverted Boomerang differ from the Invertigo?

The Giant Inverted Boomerang is similar to the Invertigo model but features vertical lift hills and a slightly different track layout.

What were the defining features of the Hurricane roller coaster model?

The Hurricane model featured a vertical loop and a double corkscrew. Only two installations of this model were ever produced.

What is the Motorbike roller coaster model?

The Motorbike roller coaster is a Vekoma-launched roller coaster model where the trains are designed to resemble motorbikes. It was first produced in 2004.

What technology is used in Vekoma's LSM Launch coaster model, and how many installations exist?

Vekoma's LSM Launch coaster model uses Linear Synchronous Motor (LSM) technology for launching. It reaches speeds of around 55 mph (89 km/h) and features three inversions. Only three installations of this model exist.

Describe the Space Warp Launch coaster model.

The Space Warp Launch coaster, first produced in 2016, is a sit-down LSM launch coaster built with new-generation track and trains. It features multiple inversions and only one installation of this model exists.

What is unique about the Splash Party model?

The Splash Party is an inverted, slower-paced roller coaster designed with integrated water gun and water bomb placements. Only one installation of this model exists.

What is the Stingray model, and where is its single installation?

The Stingray is a compact flying roller coaster designed as a successor to the Flying Dutchman. Its only installed example is located at Giant Wheel Park of Suzhou.

How does the Suspended Family Coaster relate to the Suspended Looping Coaster?

The Suspended Family Coaster is an inverted family coaster that is very similar to the Suspended Looping Coaster model.

What is the Suspended Thrill Coaster and where did it debut?

The Suspended Thrill Coaster, introduced in 2020, is the successor to the Suspended Looping Coaster, featuring a different track style and layout. It debuted with Hals-über-Kopf at Erlebnispark Tripsdrill.

What were the features of the Tornado (loop-corkscrew) model?

The Tornado (loop-corkscrew) model, first produced in 1986, was a modified version of the MK-1200. It included two inversions (a vertical loop and a corkscrew) and a standard track. Three installations exist globally, with two still operating.

What is the Mine train coaster model designed for?

The Mine train coaster model, first produced in 1992, is designed with a Western, mountain, or mine theme. Vekoma offers 785 m (2,575 ft) and MK-900 M versions of this model.

What is the purpose of Vekoma's Junior coaster model?

The Junior coaster model, first produced in 1990, is a roller coaster specifically aimed at children. Vekoma offers 207 m (679 ft) and 335 m (1,099 ft) versions.

What is the Shockwave coaster model?

The Shockwave coaster, introduced in 2019, is a sit-down LSM launch coaster built with new-generation track and trains. It features multiple inversions and is available in 1095m and 1320m models.

What is the Top Gun Launch coaster model?

The Top Gun Launch coaster, introduced in 2020, is a sit-down LSM launch coaster built with new-generation track and trains, but it has a different layout and multiple inversions compared to other LSM models.

What is notable about Vekoma's Wooden roller coaster models?

Vekoma produced classic wooden roller coasters, with two examples being Thundercoaster at TusenFryd and Loup-Garou at Walibi Belgium. The former Robin Hood at Walibi Holland was later converted into an RMC hybrid coaster.

Besides the listed models, what other roller coaster types has Vekoma produced?

Other Vekoma coaster models include Wild Mouse, Hyper Space Warp, Firestorm, Swinging Turns, Enigma, Illusion, Family Boomerang, Tilt Coaster, Energy Storm, and Powered Coasters.

What agreement did Vekoma make with Rocky Mountain Construction in 2013?

In 2013, Vekoma signed a deal with Rocky Mountain Construction, allowing Vekoma to sell Rocky Mountain Construction's roller coasters outside the North American market.

Which specific attraction at Walt Disney World did Vekoma construct, and what innovation did it feature?

Vekoma constructed Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind at EPCOT in Walt Disney World. This attraction features innovative omni-coaster cars capable of controlled turns and spins.

What are the models within Vekoma's Dutch Wheels product range?

The Dutch Wheels product range includes the R40, R50, and R60 models, each available in three different types.

Name three notable Ferris wheel installations manufactured by Vekoma (or its Dutch Wheels division).

Three notable Ferris wheel installations are the Giant Wheel at Six Flags Darien Lake, the Giant Wheel at Morey's Piers, and the Hong Kong Observation Wheel.

What is a Madhouse ride, as manufactured by Vekoma?

A Madhouse is a type of flat amusement ride that creates the illusion for the rider that they are upside-down, even though the room they are in is actually rotating around them.

What is the purpose of the Gallery section in the Vekoma article?

The Gallery section in the Vekoma article contains images of various roller coaster models, such as the Suspended Looping Coaster, Boomerang, Invertigo, Giant Inverted Boomerang, Vekoma Roller Skater, Wooden Coaster, Motorbike roller coaster, and Suspended Family Coaster, to visually represent these designs.

What does the Wikimedia Commons link at the end of the article provide?

The Wikimedia Commons link provides access to media files related to Vekoma, such as images of their rides and company logo.

What is the official website for Vekoma Rides Manufacturing?

The official website for Vekoma Rides Manufacturing is www.vekoma.com.

Where can one find a database of Vekoma's roller coasters?

One can find a database of Vekoma's roller coasters on the Roller Coaster DataBase (rcdb.com).

What is the significance of the Vekoma navbox at the end of the article?

The Vekoma navbox provides a structured overview of Vekoma's current and discontinued roller coaster models, current ride models (like Dutch Wheels and Madhouse), and serves as a navigational tool to related templates and information.

What does the Roller coaster manufacturers navbox list?

The Roller coaster manufacturers navbox lists numerous companies involved in the design and production of roller coasters, including Vekoma itself, alongside historical and contemporary manufacturers.

What does the Amusement rides navbox cover?

The Amusement rides navbox provides a comprehensive list of various types of amusement rides, their manufacturers, and related articles, offering a broader context for Vekoma's products within the industry.

What was the original name of the company that became Vekoma?

The original name of the company that became Vekoma was Veld Koning Machinefabriek.

What type of roller coaster is the Invertigo model?

The Invertigo is an inverted model of the Boomerang roller coaster design.

Who is the current CEO of Vekoma Rides Manufacturing?

The current CEO of Vekoma Rides Manufacturing is Anne-Mart Agerbeek.

Vekoma Wiki: Vekoma: Engineering the Ultimate Ride Experience

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About Vekoma

Dutch Engineering Excellence

Vekoma Rides Manufacturing is a distinguished Dutch amusement ride manufacturer, renowned globally for its innovative and thrilling designs. The company's name is a syllabic abbreviation derived from its founder's original enterprise: Veld Koning Machinefabriek.

Corporate Structure

Currently operating as a subsidiary, Vekoma is part of the larger Sansei Technologies group, which also includes other prominent ride manufacturers. This affiliation allows Vekoma to leverage broader resources while maintaining its distinct identity and operational focus.

Global Reach

With a commitment to quality and innovation, Vekoma's creations are installed in amusement parks and attractions worldwide. Their extensive portfolio serves a diverse international clientele, solidifying their position as a leader in the amusement ride industry.

A Century of Innovation

Humble Beginnings

Founded in 1926 by Hendrik op het Veld, Vekoma's origins lie not in amusement rides, but in the manufacturing of farm equipment. By the 1950s, the company transitioned to producing steel constructions, notably for the burgeoning coal mining industry in the Netherlands.

Industrial Evolution

Following the closure of Dutch mines in 1965, Vekoma adapted once more, shifting its expertise to manufacturing steel pipes for the petrochemical sector. This period honed their skills in precision steel fabrication, a crucial foundation for future endeavors.

Entry into Amusement Rides

The pivotal shift occurred in the 1970s when Vekoma was contracted by the American firm Arrow Development to construct steel structures for their roller coasters in Europe. This collaboration led to Vekoma licensing Arrow's technology, enabling them to enter the amusement ride market independently in 1979, quickly establishing a reputation for robust designs.

Resilience and Acquisition

Despite facing bankruptcy in 2001, Vekoma demonstrated resilience, forming strategic alliances and continuing operations. In 2018, the company was acquired by Sansei Technologies, a move that integrated Vekoma into a larger global entity while preserving its operational model and brand legacy.

Core Offerings

Roller Coasters

Vekoma is most celebrated for its extensive range of roller coasters. From high-thrill, multi-inversion models to family-friendly coasters, their designs are known for their engineering precision and capacity for delivering exhilarating experiences. They offer various launch systems, track types, and train configurations.

Ferris Wheels

Through its Dutch Wheels division, Vekoma manufactures impressive Ferris wheels. These iconic structures provide breathtaking panoramic views and have become landmarks in many cities and parks. Models range from moderate sizes to towering observation wheels.

Other Attractions

Beyond coasters and Ferris wheels, Vekoma has also produced other unique amusement attractions, such as the "Madhouse" ride, which creates a disorienting illusion of the room spinning, and specialized models like the "Dive Pretzel Coaster," showcasing their versatility in ride design.

Signature Roller Coaster Models

A Diverse Portfolio

Vekoma has developed a wide array of roller coaster models over the decades, catering to different thrill levels and park requirements. Below is a detailed overview of some of their notable designs.

Vekoma Roller Coaster Models
Model	First Produced	Description
Bermuda Blitz	2017	A sit-down multi-inversion roller coaster featuring next-generation trains and restraints. An off-the-shelf layout is available, replicating Lech Coaster, which is the sole installation of this model.
Big Air	2010	Previously known as a hammerhead stall due to its former spinning function. It has a single installation at E-DA Theme Park in Taiwan.
Boomerang	1984	A shuttle roller coaster characterized by three inversions, reaching a height of 117 feet (35.66 m) and speeds of 47 mph (76 km/h).
Corkscrew with Bayerncurve (discontinued)	1979	An adaptation of the standard Arrow Development corkscrew roller coaster.
Dive Pretzel Coaster	2014	A roller coaster featuring a 90-degree climb and multiple pretzel loop elements.
Double Loop-Corkscrew	1981	A variant of the MK-1200, featuring two vertical loops, two corkscrews, and standard track.
Flying Dutchman	2000	The first large-scale flying roller coaster. The last installation, Batwing, closed in 2025.
Giant Inverted Boomerang	2001	An evolution of the Invertigo, featuring vertical lift hills and a modified layout.
Hurricane	1989	Features a vertical loop and a double corkscrew. Only two installations were ever produced.
Invertigo	1996	An inverted version of the Boomerang model.
Motorbike roller coaster	2004	A Vekoma-launched roller coaster with trains designed to resemble motorbikes.
LSM Launch coaster	1999	A roller coaster with three inversions, launched at approximately 55 mph (89 km/h) using LSM technology. Only three installations exist.
Space Warp Launch coaster	2016	A sit-down LSM launch coaster utilizing new-generation track and trains, featuring multiple inversions. It has a single installation.
Splash Party	2013	An inverted, slower-paced roller coaster designed with integrated water gun and water bomb features. It has a single installation.
Stingray	2009	A compact flying roller coaster designed as the successor to the Flying Dutchman. Its sole installation is Stingray at Giant Wheel Park of Suzhou.
Suspended Family Coaster	2001	An inverted family coaster closely resembling the Suspended Looping Coaster.
Suspended Looping Coaster	1994	An inverted coaster available in several distinct models.
Suspended Thrill Coaster	2020	The successor to the Suspended Looping Coaster, featuring updated track and layout designs. It debuted with Hals-über-Kopf at Erlebnispark Tripsdrill.
Tornado (loop-corkscrew)	1986	A modified MK-1200 with a vertical loop and corkscrew. Three installations exist, with two currently operating.
Mine train coaster	1992	A roller coaster themed around mines or Western landscapes, available in 785m and MK-900 M models.
Junior coaster	1990	A roller coaster designed specifically for children, offered in 207m and 335m models.
Shockwave coaster	2019	A sit-down LSM launch coaster with new-generation components, multiple inversions, and occasional tunnel features. Available in 1095m and 1320m models.
Top Gun Launch coaster	2020	A sit-down LSM launch coaster featuring a distinct layout and multiple inversions, built with new-generation track and trains.
Wooden roller coaster	2000	Classic wooden coasters produced by Vekoma. Notable examples include Thundercoaster at TusenFryd and Loup-Garou at Walibi Belgium.

Beyond the Coaster

Notable Ferris Wheels

Vekoma's Dutch Wheels division has produced significant Ferris wheel installations worldwide. These structures are not only attractions but also iconic landmarks.

Notable Vekoma Ferris Wheel Installations
Ferris wheel name	Location	Opened	Status
Giant Wheel	Six Flags Darien Lake, Darien, New York, US	1983-2019	Closed
Giant Wheel	Morey's Piers, Wildwood, New Jersey, US	1985	Operating
Navy Pier Ferris Wheel	Pier Park, Navy Pier, Chicago, US	1995	Relocated
Delhi Eye (R50)	Kalindi Kunj Park, Okhla, Delhi, India	2014	Operating
Hong Kong Observation Wheel	Central, Hong Kong	2014	Operating
Branson Ferris Wheel (former Navy Pier Wheel)	Branson, Missouri	2016	Operating
Grande roue de Montréal	Montreal, Canada	2017	Operating

The Madhouse Experience

Vekoma also produces the "Madhouse" attraction. This unique ride creates a compelling illusion for passengers, making them feel as though the room is rotating and they are upside down, even though the room itself is rotating around a central axis.

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References

10 millionth rider goes for spin on Navy Pier ferris wheel

A full list of references for this article are available at the Vekoma Wikipedia page

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Important Notice

This page has been generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is derived from publicly available data and may not be exhaustive or entirely up-to-date. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy, the information should be independently verified.

This is not professional advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional engineering consultation, design advice, or safety assessments related to amusement rides. Always consult with qualified professionals and refer to official manufacturer documentation for specific applications and safety standards.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.

Vekoma: Engineering the Ultimate Ride Experience

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

About Vekoma ℹ️

🇳🇱 Dutch Engineering Excellence

🏢 Corporate Structure

🌍 Global Reach

A Century of Innovation ⏳

🚜 Humble Beginnings

🏭 Industrial Evolution

🎢 Entry into Amusement Rides

🔄 Resilience and Acquisition

Core Offerings 🎢

🚀 Roller Coasters

🎡 Ferris Wheels

🌀 Other Attractions

Signature Roller Coaster Models ⚙️

📜 A Diverse Portfolio

Beyond the Coaster 🎡

🏙️ Notable Ferris Wheels

👻 The Madhouse Experience

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📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

About Vekoma

Dutch Engineering Excellence

Corporate Structure

Global Reach

A Century of Innovation

Humble Beginnings

Industrial Evolution

Entry into Amusement Rides

Resilience and Acquisition

Core Offerings

Roller Coasters

Ferris Wheels

Other Attractions

Signature Roller Coaster Models

A Diverse Portfolio

Beyond the Coaster

Notable Ferris Wheels

The Madhouse Experience

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice