K.A.R.R. - Knight Automated Roving Robot
Model Number: 1000
License Tag Number: KARR (California)
Operator: Kathleen Donnovan, under the Foundation for Law and Government
Vehicle Type: Front engine, rear wheel drive, two passenger, two door coupe
Dimensions: Wheel base(101 in.) Length(189.8 in.) Width(72 in.) Height(37.2 in.)
Engine: Knight Industries Turbojet
Transmission: 8 speed microprocessor turbodrive with built-in autopilot
Acceleration: 0-60mph>.2 seconds (with power boosters) Standing 1/4 mile>4.286sec.@300mph
Braking: 14 ft. from 70 MPH
Primary Features:
Operational Features:
In-Dash Monitors:
Record & Replay of viewed scenarios
Freeze Frame
Zoom
Photo Imagery reproduction
Vital Signs
X-rays
Maps, Charts, and Diagrammatics
Background:
K.A.R.R. was the first model of "intelligent" automobiles designed for the Foundation for Law and Government. K.A.R.R. was based on an algorithm developed by Wilton Knight known as the AI Heuristic. This algorithm emulated human learning abilities and simulated human thought processes, including a capacity for emotion.
K.A.R.R. was originally designed as a prototype for a production vehicle to be used primarily by law enforcement agencies, and to eventually become a safe and efficient consumer vehicle. K.A.R.R.'s failure severely damaged the reputation of Knight Industries, so much that any future developments would be for private and small-scale applications.
K.A.R.R. was implanted with the directive that would ultimately cause its failure: self preservation. K.A.R.R. lost control in an effort to keep from being destroyed, and injured several people before eventually being disabled.
K.A.R.R. was the predecessor to the Model 2000, also known as K.I.T.T.