People’s interest has been piqued by what is being touted as the world’s most dangerous rollercoaster, designed with the intent to kill its passengers. The Euthanasia Coaster, conceptualised by Lithuanian artist Julijonas Urbonas, has attracted some thrill-seekers eager to experience its macabre design.
Rollercoasters hold varying levels of appeal for individuals, with some seeking the adrenaline rush they provide, while others may find them intimidating. However, the Euthanasia Coaster takes the concept of fear to a whole new level. On National Rollercoaster Day, a TikTok user, @jakebsweetfacts, highlighted what he described as the ultimate thrill ride. The Euthanasia Coaster, conceived in 2010 and brought to life as a scaled model, begins with a steep lift taking riders up to 500 metres (1,600ft), giving them a fleeting moment to contemplate their existence.
At this point, passengers have the option to disembark, but those who opt to continue can initiate the journey by pressing a button. The rollercoaster ascends to its peak, providing riders with a choice to reverse course. If they decide to proceed, they will hurtle down the track at a mind-boggling 300mph and face seven consecutive loops. The ride is designed to subject passengers to 10 G’s of force for 60 seconds, causing a rush of blood to their feet, resulting in loss of vision, eventual blackout, and ultimately, death.
The Euthanasia Coaster lasts a brief but intense 3 minutes and 20 seconds, concluding with a straight path back to the station where deceased passengers are discreetly removed, making way for new riders. Initially showcased as part of the HUMAN+ exhibit at Dublin’s Science Gallery in 2011, the installation gained prominence as an epochal exhibition by the gallery itself. Following its emergence on TikTok, the video garnered over 115,000 likes and numerous comments, with some speculating its purpose for those on death row and others expressing eagerness to try it out.
While shock and scepticism greeted the revelation of this extraordinary ride, it has nonetheless captured the attention of many, sparking a debate on the boundary-pushing experience it offers.