i don't think the prototype is that much more advanced than anything they've done before? there's projects that the track isn't even complete yet set to open at the same time (hyperia)
Hyperia really isn't a good comparison as it's a simple lift hill coaster with just a few trains and a train design that has been utilized before at similar speeds.
Based on officially released videos and stats, Voltron's layout features at least the following:
- A vertical launch
- A second launch into a zero-g stall
- Block brake
- Turntable
- Swing launch (incorporated into the turntable)
- Block brake
- Final brake run (with an unknown number of blocks)
In addition, there are almost certainly thematics prior to the first launch that have not been revealed, plus an unknown number of blocks. The ride has 7 trains, so we know it has at least 8 blocks. That is a lot of blocks with a lot of launches and a lot of sensors that need to be calibrated and tested. Part of commissioning is trying to make sure that every failure situation imaginable has been accounted for and tested. As additional blocks/sensors/launches get added to a ride, the number of potential failure combinations can grow exponentially which can require a lot of time. Then, factor in the fact that this train configuration has never been used before. Sure, the single car has been used, but joining them to make a train can create some unknowns that need to be checked or potentially fixed.
So simply put, it's a very complex attraction. Furthermore, it's a bit of a statement piece by Mack and will undoubtedly be the marquee attraction for a park that not only showcases Mack's products, but is also one of the most popular parks in Europe. There is a lot riding on it and Mack will surely want to have it running as smoothly and reliably as possible before opening it to the masses.
