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Xcelerator was manufactured by Intamin and opened at the park on June 22, 2002. The ride was built at a cost of $13 million, replacing the ill-fated Windjammer Surf Racers. Xcelerator's trains are designed to resemble 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air convertibles and are hydraulically launched to 82 mph in 2.3 seconds.[1][2] Becoming the tallest roller coaster at Knott's Berry Farm, Xcelerator (and Goliath at Six Flags Magic Mountain) are among the first closed-loop hypercoasters to be built in California.[3]
Incident[]
On September 16, 2009, the launch cable for Xcelerator snapped, splitting the lead car of the train and injuring Russel Wheeler and his 12-year-old son. The son's leg was lacerated by the snapped cable, requiring surgery and rehabilitation. The California Division of Occupational Safety and Health determined that the 6-month inspection of the launch cable was 19 days late and should actually be conducted monthly. Confusing instructions from the manufacturer were cited. The cable is entirely replaced annually.[4] In August 2011, the park reached an undisclosed settlement with the Wheeler family.[5]
Updates[]
In late 2021, Xcelerator was re-painted with its tracks being given a gradient color scheme to resemble a custom flame job.[6] In late 2024, Xcelerator received spare parts for an extra train from the retired Top Thrill Dragster.[7][8]
Xcelerator at Coasterpedia
