"New engineering tools, quicker computers and exotic materials--all have allowed designers to take the industry to the next level," says Jim Seay, president of Premier Rides, a leading coaster design firm. "High-tech materials like carbon-fiber composites opened the door to more sophisticated designs," he says, "because they reduce weight and the resulting stresses on large support structures." Technology such as the linear induction motors used in Mr. Freeze, a ride Premier created for Six Flags St. Louis, has increased speeds dramatically, launching riders to 70 mph in only 4 seconds. The hydraulic launch in Xcelerator, at Knott's Berry Farm in California, propels the train to 82 mph in 2.3 seconds. Even the trains themselves have advanced: At Six Flags Magic Mountain in Los Angeles, the rotated seating on Tatsu gives the sensation of flight, and Riddler's Revenge sends riders through loops standing up. Engineering elements like Fahrenheit's top hat, which allows for 90-degree lifts and more aggressive drop angles, are made possible by the same software that companies such as Boeing use to develop aircraft.

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