I was a fan of the early 80s TV show Knight Rider and I always wondered if it was really possible for KITT to drive right onto the ramp and into FLAG’s mobile HQ 18-wheeler at highway speed.
Fortunately, MythBusters recreates the stunt and satisfies my curiosity. It turns out it’s not even a big deal thanks to the Newton’s first law of motion – the law of inertia. Because KITT and the truck are moving at the same speed, the car simply continues at the same speed (relative to the ground) once it is onboard. Unless Michael hit the gas on the ramp, the car won’t accelerate inside the truck.
Here’s some footage of KITT from the show (exits the driving truck 10 seconds in).
Hopefully the new made for TV Knight Rider movie will feature better acting that the original TV series. Will Arnet has a great voice for KITT. The new Knight Rider will premiere on February 17, Sunday at 9pm.
