The Firechaser Express roller coaster is the newest ride to open at Dollywood after its launch on 21 March at Dollywood in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, US.

The coaster is a multi-launch coaster, which launches riders forward and backwards and was built by Germany-based Gerstlauer which previously manufactured Dollywood’s award-winning Mystery Mine Euro-fighting coaster.

The forward launch speed is zero to 16mph in 1.1 seconds and the backward launch speed is zero to 20mph in 2 seconds.

Based on the story of volunteer firefighters keeping the Smoky Mountains safe from the threat of forest fires, the 2,427ft-track ride features two helices and six airtime moments.

The ride lasts 2 minutes, 19 seconds and its maximum speed is 34.5mph.

The Firechaser Express is the first part of aUS$300m (£192m, €225m) ten-year expansionthat will feature an all new resort on Dollywood property.

The Dream More Resort – expected to open in summer of 2015 – will feature 300 bedrooms, a spa, indoor and outdoor pools plus a full service restaurant.

Dolly Parton was there to open the coaster and pose with firefighters.

Parton also made an appearance at Dollywood’s Festival of Nations which began 22 March and will continue for a month.