For decades, the Knight Rider Car, KITT, has captivated audiences with its futuristic technology and sleek design. Fans around the world have been intrigued not just by its crime-fighting abilities but also by some of its more subtle, physical characteristics. Among these, two particular details have often sparked curiosity: a mysterious metal bar seen beneath the front bumper and the seemingly perpetually slightly open hood. What are these features, and what purpose did they serve in bringing the iconic car to life on screen? Let’s delve into the behind-the-scenes secrets to uncover the answers.
The Enigmatic Metal Bar Underneath KITT
One of the most frequently asked questions by keen-eyed Knight Rider enthusiasts revolves around a metal bar that occasionally appears just below KITT’s front spoiler. This feature, noticeable in various episodes across seasons one and two, often prompts speculation. What could this bar be? Is it a reinforcement? Some kind of mounting bracket for gadgets?
The answer, while perhaps less exciting than a hidden weapon system, is rooted in the practicalities of filming a television show. This metal bar is, in fact, a towing bar. Its purpose was primarily for towing the car during scenes where the focus was meant to be on the actors inside KITT, especially Michael Knight and his interactions with the talking car.
During these dialogue-heavy driving sequences, rather than David Hasselhoff having to simultaneously act and navigate the car perfectly for the cameras, KITT would be towed by a truck using this bar. This technique allowed for smoother camera shots inside the vehicle, ensuring the actors’ performances were the focal point without the added complexity of on-screen driving. It’s a classic piece of movie magic, allowing for seamless scenes that might otherwise be challenging to film.
The “Open Hood” Illusion: Stuntwork and the Rubber Shell
Another visual quirk that eagle-eyed viewers have spotted is KITT’s hood, or bonnet, sometimes appearing to be slightly ajar. This observation, particularly prevalent in the early seasons, led to various theories. Was it an engine too large for the chassis? Or perhaps a deliberate design element?
However, the reality is far more fascinating and again, tied to the demands of television production, specifically stunt work. The “open hood” effect wasn’t actually an open hood at all. Instead, it was a clever visual byproduct of a specialized rubber shell placed over the car.
This rubber or “stunt” shell served a crucial role in protecting the actual cars used for filming stunts. When KITT was required to perform daring feats – whether it was withstanding bullet fire (simulated by spark-emitting pellets attached to the shell), crashing through obstacles, or enduring collisions – the shell acted as a protective layer. This prevented damage to the underlying, pristine Trans Am body, preserving the hero car’s appearance.
The seemingly “open” hood was simply a design characteristic of this shell. The extra layer of material, especially around the hood and front end, gave the illusion of a slightly raised bonnet. This subtle visual cue was a constant reminder of the robust, almost indestructible nature of KITT, even during the most perilous stunts.
Conclusion: Practicality and Movie Magic in Knight Rider
In conclusion, the metal bar and the “open hood” are not mysterious gadgets or design flaws, but rather ingenious solutions to the challenges of filming an action-packed television series like Knight Rider. The towing bar ensured smooth interior shots, while the stunt shell protected the cars during action sequences and inadvertently created the “open hood” visual. These behind-the-scenes insights reveal the blend of practicality and movie magic that brought the Knight Rider car to life, cementing its place as an enduring icon of television history.
