The Multiple Faces of KITT
The 2008 Shelby GT500KR KITT Mustangs were created to look like the 1,000 standard KR Mustangs available to consumers. Aside from being GT Mustangs, there are other subtle differences between the KITT Mustangs and a KR. For instance, the KITT Mustang features an automatic transmission. Why on earth would you put an automatic in a King of the Road Mustang? Well, Ford says the automatic transmission helps to facilitate the driving scenes, stunts, and camera work necessary to produce the great action scenes in the movie.As for the ATTACK KITT Mustang designed by Belker, it features a new rear bumper cover, two-tiered spoiler, side scoops and custom rocker panels. It also received a modified interior to accommodate creative needs of "movie magic" special effects, such as shooting and post production computer graphics. Although many people have already said the ATTACK KITT Mustang appears a bit over the top, its designer said, "This isn't about reinventing design language, it's about being entertaining."
The new Knight Rider made-for-television movie appeared on NBC Sunday February 17th, 2008. Thanks to the wonders of movie magic, the new KITT car talked, courtesy of actor Val Kilmer. Originally Will Arnett was cast for the role. According to a February 6, 2008 article in Variety, it was reported that Arnett had a contractual conflict of interest. Sadly William Daniels did not reprise the role.
On March 30, 2008, two cars featured in the show (Hero & Attack Mode) were sold as a pair for $300,000 at the 2008 Barrett-Jackson West Palm Beach Show. As an added extra, the winner was given the opportunity to purchase the final production 2009 GT500KR Mustang at list price, and not a dollar more.
In April of 2008 NBC announced they will turn the show into a weekly series, Wednesdays at 8/7c, this coming Fall. The show will premiere on September 24th.
