Italian ride and attractions developer, EOS Rides, is in the process of completing final tests on the world’s biggest ever animatronic figure.
The king of Kongs, a whopping 13 metres (42 feet) tall, is destined for Carthageland theme park in Hammamet, Tunisia.
The gigantic ape is to be the centrepiece of a customised spinning coaster, also designed and built by EOS.
The monster ride will be installed on top of an existing building at the park.
King Kong has been carefully crafted to represent a real gorilla. Specialist craftsman at EOS based the extremely detailed model on scientific anatomical studies of the real animal.
What gives it the edge, of course, is that it moves in truly terrifying King Kong style.
For the majority of the time, the ape is seen resting on its knuckles, turning his head and looking around.
Then, all of a sudden, King Kong stands up to its full height, raises its arms and thumps its chest angrily, while its head turns and its mouth opens, emitting an ear-splitting roar. Guests will even see the ape’s hot breath pour from its nostrils.
EOS has employed special effects more often associated with blockbuster movies to create this truly thrilling coaster experience.
Real flames, 6 meters (20”) high, flare when the coaster approaches the giant ape. Lights flash like those of a New York police car, referencing the original movie. The 7,200 Watt audio system ensures that King Kong’s roars can be heard a kilometre away.
Amazing animatronic facts:
- Dimensions: L 7m x W 6.5 m x H 13 m (Reduced to 9.5 m when down in resting position)
- Total weight: 25,000 Kg
- Installed Power: 235 kW
- Hydraulic Plant: 150 kW
- Audio system: 7,200 Watt
EOS Rides, based in Treviso, Italy, designs and builds a wide range of rides and attractions including dark rides, transport systems, water rides and coasters. The company also offers complete amusement park solutions.
