Personal tools

Hot Rod (G1)/toys

From Transformers Wiki

(thumbnail)
Since 1986, kids stopped buying Transformers toys because of him.

Hot Rodis a bot of many toys!

Contents

The Transformers

(thumbnail)
This is totally what cars will look like in the far-flung future of 2005.
Hot Rod transforms into a red, orange, and yellow futuristic race car. He is armed with two "Photon Laser" weapons, each with their own distinct sculpt, which fit in both his fists; only one gun can be equipped in vehicle mode, in the port in his engine block. Upon his original release, Hot Rod had unpainteddie-castmetal feet, while later editions of the figure used black plastic.
Hot Rod was one of the first toys designed specifically for theTransformerstoyline, as opposed to being an imported pre-existing toy. In further contrast to the common design process forTransformerstoys, he (like most of the cast ofThe Transformers: The Movie) was created for animation first, and had his toy created based onFloro Dery's designs (though said animation designs would be further modified after the toy was completed). Before final production, Hot Rod was originally cast in apinker plasticto match the color of his animation model (as seen incatalogsat the time, and theSharkticoncommercial), but oddly, he was changed to a lessanimation-accuratered before release. This change evidently came too late to modify the factory-appliedstickersthe toy bears: the small decals on either side of Hot Rod's vehicle mode feature a pink background that would have matched the toy's original color scheme. The copy of the toy seen in the 1986 catalog also shows his legs extended further than is possible on the final release, which adds extra plastic tabs inside the legs to prevent them from fully extending. Shaving down these tabs can restore the original functionality, exposing some sculpted knee details, but care must be taken to ensure the legs will still be able to click into place,[1]and the taller legs make him appear rather oddly-proportioned—which may be why the mold was modified in the first place.
Hispackage biosays his car mode has a range of a whole entire 4 miles. Oops.
Hot Rod has been retooled, reissued, and redecoed several times down the years; this article strives to list each distinct edition of the figure under its own heading.


(thumbnail)
As you're enjoying your retirement in 2006, tour the country inthis!
Rodimus Prime was designed in much the same way as Hot Rod, but this time transforms from a robot andMobile Defense Bayinto aspace winnebagofuturistic truck resembling theGM Bison concept truck.The toy comes with a "Photon eliminator" rifle and two blast shields to attach to either side of his battle platform's cannon. (The yellow spoiler was also to be removed and replaced during transformation.) Like Hot Rod, there are materials variations; initial releases have metal toes and rubber tires, while later shipments replaced both with black plastic.
This mold was later redecoed as a lucky draw prizePrimus.


(thumbnail)
In 2007, hood-cannons will become a standard feature.
  • Hot Rod(Targetmaster,1987)
    • Accessories: Firebolt Targetmaster partner
Hot Rod was re-released with his newNebulanTargetmasterpartnerFirebolta year after the original release. The toy wasretooledto have larger pegholes in his fists and his engine block so the Targetmaster gun would fit. As the original large stickers applied to Hot Rod's thighs were frequently scraped away by the friction of moving his legs up and down during transformation, the Targetmaster version sported smaller decals that avoided this problem. Unlike the original figure, Targetmaster Hot Rod only ever featured black plastic feet. Amusingly enough, Targetmaster Hot Rod's "Firepower" stat is 7, which is actually lower than regular Hot Rod's firepower stat of 10.
Targetmaster Hot Rod's packaging originally contained theerroneousblurb "Firebolt transforms intoMisfire'sweapon! "[2]This was fixed by arunning changein two steps: First Misfire's name was covered with a sticker that contained the correct name "Hot Rod"; later shipments then came in boxes that had the correct name printed on them.[3]
Not originally released in Japan, the Targetmaster version of Hot Rod was later reissued by Takara as part of theirThe Transformers Collectionseries in 2004 (see below).


G1toy takara 2001 hotrod reissue.jpg
  • Hot Rodimus(2000)
    • ID number:C-78
    • Accessories: 2 photon lasers
The original Hot Rod toy was reissued by Takara in later December 2000, as part of a small line of reissues that celebrated the fifteenth anniversary of theTransformerstoyline in Japan. The figure was retro-retooled from the Targetmaster version of the toy to fill the enlarged holes back in so that they could once again snugly accommodate his Photon Lasers. This version of the figure also reinstates the die-cast metal feet of its earliest release, and finally recolors the stickers on either side of the vehicle mode so that they now feature an accurate red background to match to the rest of the figure. The toy's packaging featured a metallic golden sticker advertising the anniversary.
This version of the Hot Rod mold was also used to create the simultaneously-available exclusives "Crystal Rodimus" (see below) and the evil clone,Black Rodimus.


G1toy crystal rodimus.jpg
  • Crystal Rodimus(Autobot Car,2001)
    • ID number:C-78C
    • Accessories:2 photon lasers
"Crystal Rodimus" uses the reissue Hot Rod mold, but cast almost entirely in translucent plastics. Limited to 1500 pieces and packaged in a monochrome blue version of Hot Rod's normal packaging, Crystal Rodimus was only available at Tokyo Toy Festival, with the joint purchase of the evil cloneBlack Rodimus.


G1toy takara rodimus prime reissue.jpg
  • Rodimus Convoy(2001)
    • ID number:C-77
    • Accessories:Trailer/Mobile Defense Bay, Photon Eliminator, spoiler, 2 gun shields (left & right)
The original Rodimus Prime toy was reissued by Takara in mid-December 2001. It featured no notable changes from the original Generation 1 release of the figure, but it did reinstate the rubber tires and metal feet that were phased out of the original toy's production run.


Transform Jr

(thumbnail)
By the far-off year of 2006, the Cybertronians will have perfected the art of converting living metal to cardboard.
  • Rodimus Convoy(1986)
    • ID number:C-77
    • Accessories:photon eliminator, cardboard trailer
Transform JrRodimus Prime is a downsized version of the standard toy, far less simplified than most figures in theJrline (on account of how simple the regular toy is in the first place). Made of only red and yellow plastic, he is armed with his Photon Eliminator, and comes with a non-transforming version of his trailer made partially out of cardboard. He also came packaged with a small die-cast metal figurine ofMetroplex.


Return of Convoy

  • Star Convoy(Cybertron,1991)
  • ID number:C-372
Released in theReturn of Convoypart of theoriginal TakaraFight! Super Robot Lifeform Transformerstoyline,Hot Rod'sMicromasterform is a simplified version of his original toy, transforming into the same futuristic race car. Like all Micromasters, he features a notch in the base of his feet that allows him to peg onto Micromaster-compatible bases and stations.
He was only available packed in withStar Convoy.


(thumbnail)
2011: The year the Shriners will take over the automotive industry.
  • Star Convoy(Cybertron, 2005)
  • ID number:C-372
In 2005,Star Convoywas re-released with several deco changes, one of the more notable being the replacement of many stickers withpaint applications;the pack-in Hot Rod Micromaster underwent the same process, withallof his deco now paint rather than stickers.


Choro-Q

(thumbnail)
Rodimus got a head start on the Tesla bandwagon.
  • Rodimus Convoy TV Version(2001)
    • ID number:Q/05
    • Accessories:Photon Eliminator rifle
Choro-QRodimus convoy is a super-deformed version of the character with a pullback motor. He came with a small version of his Photon Eliminator rifle that can be held in his hand or attached to the top of the vehicle mode.

(thumbnail)
Sparkly!
  • Rodimus Convoy Metallic Version(2001)
    • ID number:Q/06
    • Accessories:photon eliminator
This metallic version featured metallic flake molding and paint for the body and gold paint for the wings on Rodimus's back. Otherwise, the toy is the same.
Two decades later, the toy suffers fromGold Plastic Syndrome,where the metallic hinge areas are prone to shattering.

Commemorative Series

Commemorative series rodimus toys.jpg
  • Rodimus Major(2002)
    • Accessories:2 photon lasers
Hasbro's first reissue of the Hot Rod toy used the re-modified mold from Takara's 2001 edition, with smaller peg-holes for his Photon Lasers, and die-cast metal feet. As part of the first wave of "Commemorative Series"figures, Hot Rod had to undergo a name change due to Hasbro's inability to trademark his old name, but the" Major "suffix failed to stick and was only ever used on this edition of the toy.
This version of the mold removes the pins in his arms and instead the arms stay in via very small pegs. This is likely due to the part being prone to breakage. Subsequent uses of this mold also shared this retool.
  • Rodimus Prime(2004,2012)
    • Accessories:trailer/Mobile Defense Bay, photon eliminator, spoiler, 2 gun shields (left & right)
Part of the seventh wave of the Commemorative Series, Hasbro's reissue of Rodimus Prime was identical to Takara's 2001 reissue of the figure, featuring metal feet and rubber tires, and no other notable changes from the original figure. The toy did, however, feature anassembly errorthat saw a portion of the chest being assembled backwards.
The figure later saw a re-release in Hasbro's Asian markets in 2012, with no known changes to the figure itself and some minor changes to the packaging, such as the addition of a black "choking hazard" warning label.

The Transformers Collection

Tfc hot rod.jpg
  • Hot Rodimus(2004)
    • ID number:13
    • Accessories:2 photon lasers, Firebolt Targetmaster partner
This reissue of Hot Rod followed the trend begun by earlier reissues ofOptimus PrimeandMegatron,and offered the most "complete" version of the toy available by including all the accessories that had come with the different releases of the figure through the years. His peg holes were modified for the third time, enlarged once again to accommodateFirebolt,and his Photon Lasers' pegs were similarly widened to fit comfortably in the newly-sized ports. Additionally, this version of Hot Rod replaced the factory-applied stickers on his chest and sides withtampographs,completely redesigning the flame design on the latter decals. His chest decoration was modified to resemble the cartoon coloration more accurately. Unfortunately, this release features the original "C-78" sticker sheet again, with the larger thigh decals that get easily damaged during transformation.
This set included aTech Speccard that retroactively gave the Targetmaster version of Hot Rod the (previously unused)Japanese ID number"C-110", as the toy had never been released in Japan before this point.

Smallest Transforming Transformers

Wstf hot rod.jpg
  • Hot Rodimus(2004/2006)
    • Accessories:2 photon lasers
Initially intended for release in the cancelled third wave of Takara'sSmallest Transforming Transformersline of diminutiveTransformersfigures, Hot Rod eventually saw the light of day as the 1-in-24 "chase figure"in wave" 2.5 "of the series, which was already of comparatively limited availability. He came with tiny versions of his original Photon Lasers (which were attached to a plastic sprue and had to be removed by the buyer), and wasblindpackedlike allSmallest Transformingfigures. His vehicle mode canopy/ spoiler section is not affixed to the toy and is held on with friction, making it removable to transform the figure more easily.
Hot Rod was later made available again as aToys "R" Usexclusive in 2006, in a unique monochrome red box which was atinyreplica of the original toy's box, available only with purchase ofHybrid StyleOptimus Prime.

Classics

(thumbnail)
And in 2026, the future predicted in 1978 will finally come to pass. Perfect for a road trip to Sanctuary!
  • Rodimus(Deluxe, 2006)
    • Accessories:Rocket engine/missile launcher, flame missile
ClassicsRodimus is a sleeker, more streamlined version of the original, now transforming into a hot-rodded (see what we did there?)Dome Zero.His rear-mounted thruster engine becomes a hand-held weapon in robot mode, launching a spring-loaded missile, or can remain attached to his back to become some kind ofjet pack.His left arm also hides a flip-out "comm unit" that is clearly supposed to be the buzzsaw he used for a brief period inthe Movie.As with allClassicstoys, Rodimus has a heat-sensitiverubsign.Unfortunately, the hands are not 5mm-compatible, as they're only compatible for the missile launcher's handle.
In a twist of delicious buttery fandom irony,ClassicsRodimus has elements that were introduced inEnergonRodimus,making him a somewhat backwards-homage.His face also appears to take visual cues from how he was drawn byDerek Yanigerin theGeneration 2comic book.
Rodimus' instructions fail to mention that his pelvis must be pushed forward until it clicks into place for robot mode, which allows his hip joints enough room to move without colliding with the canopy on his back. Omitting this step will result in a robot mode that cannot stand up straight.
Very early specimens of Rodimus came with short stubs on his forearms that don't really connect at all to the hip panels, resulting in a somewhat unstable vehicle mode. The stubs can also be seen on the official Hasbrostock photosfor the figure.[4]This was quickly amended by arunning changethat saw the stubs enlarged into actual pegs that connect much more securely to the hip panels. (Some reports also indicate the existence of "transitional" versions with a stub on one arm and a full peg on the other.)
The modified pegs were used for every subsequent use of the sculpt, which includeShattered GlassRodimus,Gentei! Gentei!Wildrider,andTimelinesSide Burn.This mold also served as the basis of the non-toyBeast Wars: Uprisingincarnation ofNitrostreak.
Classicsmold:Rodimus
  • Hasbro:
  • Fun Publications:
  • TakaraTomy:
  • e-HOBBY:

Titanium Series

(thumbnail)
Winnebago...of thefuture!!!
  • Rodimus Prime(6-inch Cybertron Heroes,2007)
    • Accessories:photon eliminator rifle, display stand with nameplate
Titanium Cybertron HeroesRodimus Prime is a mostly die-cast metal transforming toy based loosely upon the originalGeneration 1Rodimus Prime toy. He features much greater articulation and bulkier body proportions. Unfortunately, his transformation results in an incredibly awkward posture, forcing his upper body far ahead of his lower half. His die-cast construction also results in a great deal of paint-chipping, even when delicately handled.
Unlike the original toy which separated into a robot and a battle station, the entire vehicle mode of the 6-inchTitaniumversion transforms into the robot mode. As withClassicsRodimus,TitaniumRodimus Prime takes some visual cues from theEnergonversion of the character in addition to the original toy and the animation model...andthe actualClassicsRodimus toy, such as the engine-block dickie.
Like mostTitanium SeriesCybertron Heroes, this figure includes a display stand with a removable nameplate.
This mold wasredecoedintoTitaniumMenasor.

Kiss Players

(thumbnail)
The fishing rod turns into arm blasters. The girl eats dumplings.
  • Hot Rodimus × Syaosyao(2006)
    • Accessories:2-part engine/blaster/tonfa weapons, 4-part fishing rod/ "Exhaust Eliminator", ShaoShao Li figurine with steamer
The secondKiss Playersset released, Hot Rodimus is a retool and redeco of theAlternatorsMiragetoy, transforming into a 1:24-scalefully-licensed red Ford GT. His hood and doors open, and he has an open driver/passenger compartment. His engine (stored in the back, under a weird awkward "trunk" panel) becomes a pair of pistols that double as tonfa weapons. His fishing rod can be taken apart and reassembled to create a triple-barreled arm-mounted blaster reminiscent of the original Hot Rod's exhaust pipe weapons, though it does not actually clip onto the arm in any secure manner, relying mainly on pressure to stay in place. This added accessory also lacks any dedicated storage space in car mode. His new head sculpt includes a retractable visor patterned after the one used in the movie, but as it's cast in colorless-clear plastic, the effect is practically invisible.
Rodimus comes with a PVC figurine of the Rodimus's "Kiss Player" partnerShaoshao Liand a bamboo dumpling steamer; Shaoshao can just barely fit into his car interior, though she's clearly not "driving". The set also includes a CD with episodes 11 through 20 of theKiss Playersradio dramaand the exclusive 10-minute audio adventure, "Tonight's Big Catch!?".
For a short time, Takara had contemplated releasing a Hot Rodimus (Hot Rod) toy as the nextBinaltechrelease afterGinrai,but that plan became obsolete when Takara decided to cancel the Binaltech line as a mass retail line altogether. Instead, Hot Rodimus ended up as part of theKiss Playersline, after "Ginrai" had previously become Kiss PlayersConvoy.

Alternators

(thumbnail)
He wants to go fishing too...
  • Rodimus(2007)
    • ID number:27
    • Accessories:Engine/tonfa weapons
AlternatorsRodimus is an exclusive figure, released at theSan Diego Comic-ConandHasbro Toy Shopin July 2007. It is a repaint of Kiss Players Hot Rodimus, which itself is a retool of AlternatorsMirage.The figure uses the same head mold introduced in the Kiss Players figure, retaining the original's visor gimmick. The deco has been altered by changing the side striping from white to yellow, while the stripes over the hood, roof and trunk have been eliminated altogether, replaced by a Hot Rod-style flame graphic on the hood and front guards. The car mode parts remain bare plastic rather than painted over in red paint like the Kiss Players verison. Most of the Kiss Player deco remains in robot mode, including the yellow hands and flame graphics on the forearms; however, the license plates (located at the knees in robot mode) have been changed to read "TOO HOT".
Rodimus's weapons are the dual pistols/tonfa seen with both Mirage and Hot Rodimus, however his Kiss Player counterpart's fishing rod/eliminator and dumpling steamer weapons were not included in the Alternators release. They leftthe girlout too.

Henkei! Henkei!

(thumbnail)
"They dipped my headlights in chrome. Now I don't drive at night."(Original release pictured)
(thumbnail)
(Re-release version pictured)
  • Hot Rodimus(Deluxe, 2008)
  • Release date:June 26,2008/???2011
  • ID number:C-05
  • Accessories:Rocket engine/missile launcher, flame missile
  • Known designers:Shogo Hasui(TakaraTomy)
In 2008,ClassicsRodimus was released in Japan as part of theHenkei! Henkei!Transformersline byTakaraTomy.Now called "Hot Rodimus", he features several significant deco differences, such as a large orange and yellow flame tampograph on his hood to better resemble theGeneration 1cartoon model's appearance. The other flame tampographs have also been redesigned, his forehead crest is a more subtle colour to distance itself from theEnergonRodimus homage Hasbro introduced. The only other addition in terms of deco is orange paint on the cuffs of his lower arms. Curiously eschewing the slavish accuracy to the original cartoon's animation models that shaped the coloration of most otherHenkei! Henkei!figures, Hot Rodimus isnotrendered in Hot Rod's classic magenta cartoon color scheme, featuring instead a shade of red that is even darker than that used by theClassicsversion, as well as a lighter shade of orange. The clear violet on theClassicsversion is clear blue on the Hot Rodimus.
AllHenkei! Henkei!toys feature a somewhat randomlyvacuum-metallizedpart somewhere upon them; his headlights are chrome gold paint with clear orange painted on, while his entire spoiler is vacuum-metallized gold.
A re-release of the figure in the Fall of 2011 had the chrome-orange headlights replaced with plated gold.
Classicsmold:Rodimus
  • Hasbro:
  • Fun Publications:
  • TakaraTomy:
  • e-HOBBY:

Universe(2008)

(thumbnail)
He's a Hot Rod without a hot rod.
  • Rodimus(Legends Class, 2008)
    • Series:G1 Series
Legends Class Rodimus transforms into a generic sports car with a giant spoiler. This toy's design was the basis for Hot Rod's look in the "Wings of Honor"comic book.
This mold wasredecoedintoRevenge of the FallenSmokescreenandDark of the MoonRodimus.


(thumbnail)
HasTak: pretending Hot Rod was red and not magenta in the movie since 1986.
  • Challenge at Cybertron(Deluxe Class figure 3-pack, 2010)
    • Series:G1 Series
    • Accessories:Rocket engine/missile launcher, flame missile
A redeco ofClassicsRodimus was released in the "Challenge at Cybertron"multi-pack along with redecoes ofCyclonusandGalvatron.This version of Rodimus, like theHenkei! Henkei!figure, is intended to be accurate to the cartoon's colors, though it attempts the idea much more literally, to the point of having solid blue rather than translucent windows.
The set was exclusively released in Southeast Asian markets by Hasbro Malaysia, but a very similar version of this Rodimus was later released in the"gold box"Transformersline(below).
Classicsmold:Rodimus
  • Hasbro:
  • Fun Publications:
  • TakaraTomy:
  • e-HOBBY:

Masterpiece

(thumbnail)
You hated him when you were ten, and now you'll pay $200 to own him.
The central feature of TakaraTomy'sMasterpieceincarnation of good ol' Roddy is its ability to transform from Hot Rod to Rodimus Prime in both robot and vehicle modes. Extensions in the figure's hips give Rodimus some slight extra height over Hot Rod, while a spring-loaded pop-out second face, revealed when the figure's helmet is tilted back, gives him his older, lined features; this face is somewhat narrower than Hot Rod's, combining with a slight elevation of the back-mounted spoiler to further create the illusion of a larger figure. Contrary to expectations, creating Rodimus Prime's vehicle mode does not simply involve slotting Hot Rod's car mode into the larger trailer section; in fact, Hot Rod fits into the trailerbackwards,and an entirely new vehicle-front—featuring Rodimus's shorter hood and smaller canopy and lacking an exposed engine block—fips out from beneath the trailer and wraps around his rear end. Both vehicles feature opening canopies, though only Hot Rod has any sculpted interior detail of note. As with most Masterpiece figures, the toy attempts to reproduce Hot Rod's cartoon appearance as faithfully as possible; consequently, this is the first toy to actually render Hot Rod in his cartoon-accurate magenta coloration. Of course, there was no way to make the figure switch to burgundy for Rodimus mode, but in compensation, the front of the cab features the two tone coloration Rodimus Prime featured in the animation.
As with his original toy, Rodimus Prime's trailer opens up into the Mobile Defense Bay, now through a spring-loaded transformation activated by pressing a button on the trailer's roof. Furthering his armament, the figure comes with Hot Rod's two twin Photon Lasers, which can combine and extend through a spring-loadedautomorph-styleprocess into Rodimus Prime's larger Photon Eliminator. The guns can store within his trailer, and mount on any one of six different ports in Defense Bay mode for additional firepower. Like the original Hot Rod toy, a single Photon Laser can mount in the vehicle mode's engine block.The Transformers: The Movieis the source of inspiration for the rest of his additional gadgets and features, including a built-in version of the retractable visor from theLookout Mountainscene, (dropped over the figure's eyes by rotating the circular "ears" on its helmet), the buzzsaw he used in battle onQuintessa,and the welding torch he used to repairKup.Both saw and torch store inside his trailer while not in use, and attach to universal clips which rotate out of his forearms. Lastly, and naturally, he also comes with a Matrix of Leadership accessory which stores within his chest, much smaller than the one included withMasterpieceOptimus Prime, to the extent that Rodimus cannot even hold it by its handles. He can, however, grip Prime's Matrix in his hands.
Unfortunately,MasterpieceRodimus has suffered from numerous quality control issues, which vary from figure to figure. Commonly reported problems include fragile leg panels which break off with ease, the inability of the figure to hold its guns due to shallow peg-holes which conflict with the bending angle of his hands, the springs within the figure's ankles becoming unwound, and the spoiler/backpack assembly refusing to clip into place. Mostly infamously, the slot on the trailer into which the spoiler slips isextremelynarrow as a consequence of its interior being painted; as a result, paint is invariably scraped off the inside and leaves disfiguring marks on the spoiler when the figure is transformed to Rodimus Prime vehicle mode. A second production run, done shortly after Hasbro's release of the figure in a different deco (see below), amended these issues and also featured some slight changes in paint colors, although the forked chest tab not quite locking properly still seems to be an issue. Some of the second production run retain the original elbows from the first production run while the others feature the retooled elbows from the Hasbro version. The second release also features the retooled crotch plate from the Hasbro release.
Beginning in March, Bic Camera and Yodobashi Camera stores offered thepromotional freebieTargetmasterMicronSpoilsportwith the purchase ofMasterpieceRodimus Convoy. Meanwhile,Toys "R" Usoffered the Targetmaster MicronCaliburstwith purchase.
If bought in Asian countries outside of Japan, Rodimus Convoy comes with acollector coin,the first of theMasterpiecefigures to do so. The coin's package is a simple square shape, primarily black with flame detailing around the cutout that shows the coin inside, and "The World of Transformers" as the title on the front. The coin itself features his head and the date "2011.01" on one side, and an "MP09" flame detail on the reverse; of note, his name is given as "Rodimus Prime" rather his Japanese name. In some markets, he may also have been available with a black display case. The figure also saw re-release in China at December 2018, with the addition of the "Long Life Design" award labelled on the packaging. The said reissue also features newly-redesigned knee joints that is plagued on previous releases.
In addition to the Hasbro version, this figure was also redecoed intoBlack Rodimus Convoy.
Masterpiecemold:Rodimus Convoy (MP-9)
  • TakaraTomy:
  • e-HOBBY:
  • Hasbro:

Hironori Kobayashi
See also:MP-28Hot Rodimus


(thumbnail)
Masterpiece Hot Rod, fishing off the edge of collectors shelves the world over
  • Hot Rodimus(2016-02-27)
    • ID number:MP-28
    • Accessories:buzzsaw, visor, fishing rod, two guns
MasterpieceHot Rodimus transforms into his iconic supercar mode, but does not transform into Rodimus Prime like the previous iteration. He is the same size as the otherMasterpieceAutobot cars, and because of that he fits in bothMP-10 ConvoyandMP-22 Ultra Magnus's trailers in altmode. He comes with some of the accessories the MP-9 mold also had, like the guns, the retractable visor and the buzzsaw, but he also comes with a new accessory, a fishing rod that allows you to recreate his first scene in the movie. His chest also includes a Matrix chamber where the MP-10 Matrix can be stored.
If bought in Asian countries outside of Japan, Hot Rodimus comes with a collector coin. The coin's package is shaped like his chest, and the inside is designed after the Matrix, with the coin as the core, and features Hot Rod's "my actions speak louder than words" motto.
Interestingly, thisMasterpieceHot Rod's transformation isveryspecifically based around how Hot Rod transforms during theLookout Mountainscene of the 1986 animated film, right before the Autobot shuttle arrives. The figure replicates the sequence almost frame for frame with exceptions for the rotation of the spoiler and the placement of the rear tires due to, well, how reality works as opposed to animation.
Masterpiecemold:Hot Rodimus (MP-28)
  • TakaraTomy:

Tomoya Miyake,Yūya Ōnishi
&Hironori Kobayashi
See also:MP-9Rodimus Convoy


TF-MP40-Targetmaster-Hot-Rodimus.jpg
"Targetmaster Hot Rodimus" is a redeco ofMasterpieceHot Rodimus based on his appearance in "The Rebirth".Now, bear with us on this one; this means that he's got the outdated color scheme used byAKOMin all their episodes of theanimated series,his shoulder vents being the same color as the rest of his arms, the dark and light areas of his helmet are inverted, the "windscreen" on his pelvis is white, and his boots are two shades of grey instead of one (because AKOM would literally translate the shadows on the character model into actual colors).But,he'ssoprecisely based on "The Rebirth" that he actually replicates the slightly degraded colors of the broadcast masters used for the episodes' DVD release (as opposed to the higher-quality "production masters" used for most of the rest of the series), meaning his magenta has become burgundy, and his boots are tinged red instead of plain gray, when by all rights thoseshouldjust be the same colors as the previous toy. Additionally, his windshield is clear, and the Autobot symbol on his chest is larger and drawn in the cartoon style.
Except for a red version of one of the guns, Masterpiece Hot Rodimus's accessories are not included. In their place is a TargetmasterFirebolt,a redeco of the Offshoot figure that came with the 2010Transformerstoyline Masterpiece Rodimus Prime figure, the first time this mold has been released in the Japanese market. As well as being wielded by Hot Rodimus, Firebolt can attach to the engine block in alt mode.

Transformers(2010)

(thumbnail)
We didn't feel like taking a picture of the same toy just with a rubsign, so here's the box.
  • Battle in Space(Deluxe figure 2-pack, 2010)
    • Accessories:Rocket engine/missile launcher/Photon Blaster, flame missile
This release of theClassicsRodimus is a modified version from the Asia market-exclusive "Challenge at Cybertron" 3-pack, replacing Rodimus' Autobot sigil with a heat-sensitiverubsign.The only other change from the "Challenge at Cybertron" version is the contrast between the chest flame and the orange backdrop is greater, making the flame deco stand out more. The set also comes with a similarly modifiedUniverseCyclonus (withNightstick) from the "Challenge at Cybertron" set, the AutobotMatrix of Leadershipaccessory from the 2002New Year Special Convoyreissue of Generation 1 Optimus Prime, and "Rodimus vs. Cyclonus",a new comic book created specifically for this set byIDW Publishing.This release of the figure has common mold degradation in the ball joints of the arms.
Classicsmold:Rodimus
  • Hasbro:
  • Fun Publications:
  • TakaraTomy:
  • e-HOBBY:


2010 sons of cybertron rodimus.jpg
  • Sons of Cybertron(2010)
    • Accessories:Rocket engine/missile launcher, flame missile
Released as part ofTakaraTomy'sWelcome to Transformers 2010campaign, this redeco ofClassicsRodimus is cast in translucent plastic and features theHenkei! Henkei!release's paint applications. He is packed with a similarly translucent Deluxe ClassOptimus Primefrom theClassics"Ultimate Battle" pack and2008UniverseSpecial Edition.
ThisClassics/Henkei-based Sons of Cybertron set is a counterpart to TakaraTomy'sTransformers AnimatedSons of Cybertron set, which also features translucent versions ofAnimatedDeluxe ClassOptimus PrimeandRodimus.
TheClassics/HenkeiSons of Cybertron set was intended for the Japanese Chara Hobby 2010 festival, but was also initially offered as a raffle prize at the Cybertron Philippines, Toy Kingdom and SM Makati andHasbro-partnered Autobot Alliance/Cybertron Con event that launched theGenerations,Transformers(2010)andPower Core Combinerstoylines in the Philippines.,[5]and was available for purchase at theCybertron Con 2010Shanghaiconvention as well as various online toy retailers.


(thumbnail)
They labeled me as "Rodimus Prime", butI don't have the trailer?
  • Masterpiece Rodimus Prime(2011)
    • Accessories:Photon Eliminator/Photon Lasers Alpha & Beta, smallMatrix of Leadership,large Matrix of Leadership, buzzsaw, welding torch, Offshoot
The Hasbro version ofMasterpieceRodimus Prime is a Toys "R" Us exclusive. Redecoed from the Takara version to appear more like the original toy, this version omits the trailer preventing him from transforming into Rodimus Prime's futuristic truck mode. He does however includeOffshoot,a Targetmaster figure, as well as all the other accessories from the Takara release.
Every plastic color is changed and many painted details are added, changed, and downright omitted from the TakaraTomy version in an effort to make him appear more toy accurate. The light gray plastic is a more metallic darker gray, the magenta is now maroon, the orange is a darker shade, and the clear blue window is a darker blue. Other changes include the hip joints and rear end, which are now black instead of magenta, the boots, which are now maroon instead of gray, and the feet, which are now black (to mimic the plastic toe variation rather than the metal toe variation from the original figure). His accessories have also changed in plastic color, with his welding tool now being maroon instead of gray, his buzz saw being smoky transparent blue instead of smoky colorless transparent plastic, and the Photon Lasers being cast in a different color. Notable paint omissions include the arm cuffs, collar, brake-lights, headlights, and the rear exhaust. His head also lacks the cartoon specific coloration, instead leaving it mostly unpainted like the original figure. Paint operation differences include the fins of the spoiler being a more subdued glossy yellow and the flame detail on his chest being a new pattern (different from the TakaraTomy version). His paint additions include the waist, which is entirely painted over rather than letting some of the transparency show through, and the center portion of the spoiler, which is now painted over yellow instead of unpainted orange plastic. His Autobot symbol is a different size and without any additional outline color, and his Photon Lasers feature some additional painted details as well. Additional details mimicking the original toy's stickers are now also present on the shins and he includes an optional sticker sheet featuring stickers similar to the original arm stickers of the Hot Rod toy, with stickers of both theAutobotandDecepticoninsigniasas well. Another difference is the rims, which are unchromed,showing the gray plastic underneath. In fact, the only things remaining the same are the chrome exhaust and the color of the rubber tires.
This version of Rodimus features the same Matrix of Leadership included with the TakaraTomy version (minus the silver and gold chrome, replaced with unpainted gray and gold painted sections), but also an additional new mold matrix similar to the one included with the original Masterpiece Optimus.
The Hasbro version of Rodimus featured retooled elbow joints that, when separated, make it difficult for him to hold a pose with his arms. The crotch plate was retooled on its underside to help prevent it from hitting the ground while in car mode.
Hasbro's Rodimus, sadly,willeventually tear itself apart due to overly powerful springs putting constant pressure on peculiarly weak plastic. The arms have a disheartening tendency to spontaneously break at either pinned section of the shoulder joint, while the upper ratchet in the knee has a high likelihood of shattering, either rendering him only durable enough to transform a few scant times. Just pose him once and back away slowly... There are third party die-cast knee joint replacements, but good luck finding some.
Masterpiecemold:Rodimus Convoy (MP-9)
  • TakaraTomy:
  • e-HOBBY:
  • Hasbro:

Hironori Kobayashi
See also:MP-28Hot Rodimus

Chronicle

EZCollectionHotRodimusToy.jpg
  • Hot Rodimus(EZ Collection, 2011)
ChronicleHot Rodimus is redeco of theUniverseLegends ClassRodimus. While some of his deco (flames, hands, spoiler, and his head) is entirely the same as theUniversetoy, Rodimus features cartoon-accurate magenta plastic, his thighs and feet were painted orange (though his feet is gray the stock photos), and his windows were painted metallic blue.
Like otherChronicleLegends toys, he is sold in a blindpacked box.

United

(thumbnail)
The blue makes him look edible, but the green stops you.
  • Autobot Set(3-pack, 2011)
    • Accessories:rocket engine/missile launcher, flame missile
Dubbed "Hot Rod Blue Clear Version", thisredecoof the oft-usedClassicsRodimus mold is cast in transparent blue plastics, emulating the scene inThe Transformers: The Moviewhere Hot Rod catches theMatrix of Leadershipto keep it from hitting the floor after a dyingOptimus Primedropped it. Of interest is the fact thatallthe plastic parts are translucent, even the usually "softer" /unpaintable/never-clear nylon parts—a trend not seen on any other "clear" toys produced before.
This version was only available in ane-HOBBYexclusive3-pack with abattle-damaged KupandScrapheap.Preorders for the set were opened onDecember 13of 2010 and closed onJanuary 11of 2011, and shipped in April.
This figure was available with a Hot Rod pin andMacrocosmic Seekersbooklet directly from e-HOBBY, he was also released in Asian countries outside of Japan without said pin and booklet.


UnitedToyRodimusPrime.jpg
  • Rodimus Prime(Deluxe, January 2012)
    • ID number:UN-23
    • Accessories:rocket engine/missile launcher, flame missile
Released in early 2012 as part of theUnitedtoy line, this marks the firstretoolof theClassicsRodimus mold. To help the mold fit the character of Rodimus Prime,TakaraTomychose a color scheme that homaged his originalGeneration 1cartoon color scheme and altered the mold to improve compatibility withMini-Consreleased around the same time. This release features new Generation One toy-inspired flame decos on the car's hood and sides, several sections (notably the roof and the area around the headlights) painted a sparkly dark maroon color (to mimic the two toned coloration of the front of Rodimus Prime's truck mode in the animation), as well as a white face and hands and an orange hood.TakaraTomyalso retooled the toy's engine block to add a 5mm peg and added a 5mm hole underneath the toy's right hand to allow the toy to use the recentArms MicronMini-Cons.
Both the maroon and orange plastic of the figure vary from any other release. Also notable is this is the first version of this mold to have the spoiler molded in an entirely different plastic color than the thighs (a good number of the other versions of this mold paint the spoiler a different color to achieve a certain look).
Like the 5th and 6th wave figures, Rodimus's package features a sticker that said "limited quantity ( số lượng hạn định )", indicating that this figure is released in limited numbers after its first and only shipment.
Classicsmold:Rodimus
  • Hasbro:
  • Fun Publications:
  • TakaraTomy:
  • e-HOBBY:

EZ Collection Gum

(thumbnail)
If you're gonna chew, Dan-O, chew in style!
  • Hot Rodimus(Candy toy, 2012)
    • ID number:2
    • Release Date:July 302012
Part of theEZ CollectionGumcandy toyseries made by TakaraTomy A.R.T.S., this Hot Rodimus is a metallic redeco of the Universe Legends Class toy. While his color layouts are identical to theChronicletoy, Hot Rodimus's red plastics have been absolutelycoveredin metallic dark red paint, and his gold and blue paints are also now a shiny metallic gloss.
As per the toyline's name, he comes with a yellow candy-shelled piece of lemony-flavored gum.

Kre-O

(thumbnail)
A Scoped pistol? Yup, he's definitely helping Megatron.
  • Rodimus(Kreon Micro-Changer, 2014)
    • Bag number:33501 41
    • Accessories:Stand-brick, scoped pistol
Part of the fourth assortment ofblind-baggedKreonMicro-Changers,Rodimus can be rebuilt from a humanoid into a hot rod. He reuses the Ironhide helmet, and the facetampographfrom the Custom Kreon.

Hero Mashers

(thumbnail)
Suffering from self-esteem issues, Rodimus took to using steroids.
  • Rodimus(Hero Mashers, 2014)
    • Pieces:9
    • Accessories:Spoiler/blaster
Part of the second wave ofTransformersHero Mashersbasic Action Figures, Rodimus is a non-transforming action figure with ratchet-joints, about six inches tall. He has multiple peg-holes all over that can be used to mount anyHero Mashersaccessory.
He is designed with a removable head, forearms, thighs, and lower legs, all of which use the same clip-peg/hole joint. This means his pieces can be swapped around in any order, as well as swapped with any otherHero Mashersfigure... which includes figures fromMarvel Comics,Star Wars,andJurassic World,meaning you can make some pretty freaky combinations.
Rather than coming with a (nominally) hand-held weapon accessory, Rodimus comes with a spoiler for his back. Of course, being aHero Masherspiece, it can be attached anywhere, including being hand-held, and the molding gives the impression of having a gun barrel, so go nuts.

Q-Transformers

QTransformers Hot Rodimus.jpg
  • Hot Rodimus(2014-12-26)
    • ID number:QT-07
Q-TransformersHot Rodimus transforms from a cutesuper deformedToyota 86 to a just as cute robot. He comes with a code for unlocking Hot Rod as a playable character in theQ-Transformers: Mystery of Convoy Returnsgame.

Combiner Wars

(thumbnail)
24 years later, I've becomehisMicromaster, again.
  • Rodimus(Legends Class, 2015)
    • Accessories: Axe/Breastplate
Part of the fourth wave of theCombiner Warssubline imprint ofGenerations,Legends Class Rodimus is a redeco and new-head retool ofGenerationsLegends Class DecepticonBlackjack,transforming into a red sports car to robot and back! He and his axe are also able to plug into the chest ofOptimus Prime,as an homage tohis Micromaster toyfrom theReturn of Convoytoyline of old.
The axecannotplug onto his back, so don't even try to think about doing it.
Rodimus'sstock photographyshows him with his thighs, torso, and axe molded in yellow. The final toy, however, has these parts in orange, giving him more traditional robot mode colors in exchange for a less-accurate orange spoiler in vehicle mode.
He includes a collector card featuring art from the "The Colossus War"episode ofTransformers Legends,which is based on his old Generation 1 body rather than his new look in the toy. The included instructions, while calling him a part of Optimus Maximus, show him attached to a control drawing ofUltra Primeinstead.
The original version of this mold was also used to makeAdventureRunaboutandRunamuck.

Platinum Edition

(thumbnail)
Alright! Hot Rod is back, let's PARTY!
  • Planet of Junk Clash(Platinum Edition Deluxe 3-pack, 2016)
    • Accessories:rocket engine/missile launcher, flame missile
Part of Hasbro'sPlatinum Editionofferings for 2016 intended to commemorate the 30th anniversary ofThe Transformers: The Movie,"Autobot Hot Rod" (who finally got his name back) is a redeco of theUnitedRodimus Prime figure, which is a retool of theClassicsRodimus toy. While the toy's deco was similar to the firstClassicsfigure, Hot Rod features yellow plastic on his spoilers, thighs, and his launcher's trigger, and grey plastic on his shins. Autobot Hot Rod also features orange-yellow paint on his vehicle headlights, and an Autobot sigil on his vehicle hood/robot chest, just like hisHenkeiandReveal the Shieldfigures. His backpack and hood/chest piece are painted in a darker red. Hot Rod retains the retooled exposed engine and the lower forearm from theUnitedRodimus Prime release, allowing forMini-Consfrom thePower Core Combinersline and their redecos to attach to the large peg/forearm as an undocumented feature.
Hot Rod's robot mode is mistransformed in all hisstock photos,including the in-package image: his backpack and fins aren't rotated properly in place. Ironically, the mistransformation also gives proper clearance for the shoulder articulation in robot mode.
Hot Rod was only available as a part of the "Planet of Junk Clash" set withWreck-GarandJunkion Scrapheap.In the United States, this set was officially aTargetexclusive, though only ever found at a single Target store, otherwise only available via the company's website. However, it was also stocked by several US-based online retailersBigBadToyStoreand TFSource, who supposedly obtained it as an import from Asia. It was available in several of Hasbro's Asian markets (namely Singapore and the Philippines; it's currently unknown whether it was exclusive to any particular stores there or not). In Canada, it was sold atToys "R" Usstores, whereas in Chile, it was sold at Ripley stores. In the United Kingdom, it was also sold at Toys "R" Us stores, whereas in Spain, it was available via the Spanish subsidiary ofAmazon,as well as the department store chain El Corte Inglés. It's currently unknown if it was also available in stores, or limited to online purchases. In Italy, it was sold at Toys Center stores, making it the firstPlatinumset ever released in that country.
Classicsmold:Rodimus
  • Hasbro:
  • Fun Publications:
  • TakaraTomy:
  • e-HOBBY:


(thumbnail)
Arise,Lost-artimusPrime.
  • Rise of Rodimus Prime(Platinum Edition 2-pack, 2017)
    • Accessories:gun, missile, Matrix of Leadership
Unlike most of the figures from Hasbro's 2016Platinum Editionofferings commemorating the 30th Anniversary ofThe Transformers: The Movie,this Rodimus Prime is not a redeco of whatfanswould consider a "CHUG"figure, but of hisTitanium Seriestoy, nine years after its initial release, retaining the original figure'sdie-castconstruction. Rodimus Prime was available as part of a 2-pack withGalvatron,aptly named "Rise of Rodimus Prime", which also contained aMatrix of Leadershipaccessory, a redeco of the Matrix originally included withMasterpieceMP-10 Convoy/Optimus Prime.Unfortunately, Rodimus cannot hold it.
Like several of the 2016Platinum Editionsets, "Rise of Rodimus Prime" saw a very limited release: Basically, the two-pack was released in some of Hasbro's Asian markets, was stocked by some online retailers in the United States that obtain their stock through Asian vendors (such asBigBadToyStoreand TFSource), and aside from that apparently only ever saw a wider release inBrazil,of all places, where it was also first officially revealed by Hasbro at ABRIN (the Brazilian Toy Fair) in April of 2016.That's it.The set never saw an official Hasbro-initiated release in the United States.

Titans Return

(thumbnail)
Head-on with style.
  • Firedrive & Autobot Hot Rod(Deluxe Class, 2016)
Titans Return"Autobot Hot Rod" transforms from robot into a futuristic sports car based on hisoriginal Generation 1 toy.Like all DeluxeTitans Returntoys, Hot Rod's cockpit can be opened to reveal a seat that allows anyTitan Masterfigure to man it in both modes. Hot Rod comes with his Titan Master partner Firedrive (a renamed Firebolt), who fits into his vehicle mode cockpit and transforms into his robot mode head. As with otherTitans Returntoys, Hot Rod can accommodate any Titan Master figure in both robot and vehicle mode. His two 5 mm rifles can be clipped together to form a larger gun with a Titan Master seat, which can be tabbed into Hot Rod's engine block in an homage to where G1 Firebolt could attach.
Similar to mostTitans Returnstoys, Hot Rod's Titan Master gimmick suffers from a design flaw leading to difficulties in applying the head to the body. In this case, the construction around Hot Rod's neckhole leaves it difficult to peg Firedrive's head in correctly, which can lead to the head being inadvertently pegged in sideways. In addition, some units suffer a molding error resulting in bumps on the lower right lip.
As documented in his instructions, but not in his stock photography, Hot Rod's weapons can be pegged (when separated) into the sides of his vehicle mode, with just barely enough clearance for his wheels to still touch the ground.
Hot Rod can use theSiegeBattle MasterFiredrive(although you can't attach him on Hot Rod's vehicle engine) if one is okay with simultaneously having two Firedrives.
Some copies were erroneously packaged with instructions forBreakaway and Throttle.
This mold serves as the model forPointblankin theLegendsmanga. The mold included apretooledalternate head for an IDW-inspired Rodimus, but this was never used.[6]


(thumbnail)
That's not a camera focus problem, the head mode deco really is that faded and fuzzy.
  • Chaos on Velocitron(gift set, 2017)
Titans ReturnRodimus Prime is aretoolof Titan MasterPterowith a new torso and head-mode face, both of which are painted-overdie-castmetal. He features peg holes in his feet to attach to a variety ofTitans Returnfigures, and can form the head of any Deluxe-or-larger figure from the line. Rodimus Prime provides the power of "Ultimate Speed Boost".
Due to its partial die-cast construction, the ball joint that connects the Titan Master's head to its torso ends up being less flexible than on other Titan Master figures made entirely out of plastic, which leaves Rodimus Prime with a very stiff neck when plugged into a largerTitans Returnfigure.
He was only available in a box set named "Chaos on Velocitron" that includesQuickswitchandDynamus,Laser PrimeandRefractor,NauticaandParsec,andFastclash.The set was officially announced by Hasbro to be aToys "R" Usexclusive,and was sold at stores in the United States, Canada, and Hasbro's Asian markets (such as Malaysia, Singapore, and Hong Kong). Despite this, it later became available viaAmazonin the United States (but not in Canada) as well, actually sold by Amazon directly (as compared to a third-party seller).
The torso was later reused for fellow die-cast Titan MastersThunderwing,Ultra Magnus,andScorponok.

Legends

(thumbnail)
Check out my chest tattoo!
  • Targetmaster Hot Rodimus (Targetmaster Hot Rod)[7](Deluxe Class,2017-09-30)
    • ID Number:LG45
    • Accessories:Headmaster,FireboltTargetmaster
Legends"Targetmaster Hot Rodimus" is a redeco and retool ofTitans ReturnHot Rod,featuring a more cartoon-accurate maroon color scheme, painted rims, and a retooled chestplate which, in addition to featuring transparent flames, also allows you to hide the hood engine in robot mode. He comes with Firebolt, an all new moldTargetmasterthat replaces the original mold's guns. This figure was later redecoed intoKen.
The lower right lip molding error from theTitans Returnfigure is present on some examples of this figure.

Transformers Collectors' Club

GIJ-TF-Club-Crossover-Only-Human-Rodimus-Prime.jpg
  • Autobot Leader Code Name: Rodimus Prime(2017)
    • Accessories:2 photon blasters, fishing pole, fishing pole strike, fish, display base
This figure represents Rodimus Prime'ssynthoidhuman body seen in theoriginal cartoonseason 3 episode "Only Human".It consists of a combination of redecoed parts from existingG.I. Joefigures; namely, the head of the 2008 version ofHawk,the torso and waist of the 2009Resoluteversion ofDuke,the arms and hands of the 2010Pursuit of Cobraversion ofDusty,the upper legs of the 2009Rise of Cobraversion ofShipwreck,and the lower legs and feet of the 2010Pursuit of Cobraversion ofRecondo.With the exception of the upper legs, this combination of parts was previously already used for the 2011Pursuit of Cobraversion of Hawk, which was also the first figure to include the vest accessory that is recolored for this figure, meant to recreate the look of the synthoid Rodimus Prime's jumpsuit inOnly Human.
The remaining accessories are redecos of the 2013RetaliationBlind Master's sword cane/staff and flying saw, which are combined and reinterpreted as a fishing pole, the barracuda that came with the original 1990Iron Grenadiersversion ofUndertow,and the guns that originally came with the 2013RetaliationData-Viperfigure. A recolor of the UAV drone that usually goes with those guns was included with the concurrently releasedAutobot Warrior Code Name: Arceefigure, and can be worn by Rodimus Prime on his back, mimicking the look of the Rodimus Prime robot's spoiler. The included display base/stand is the generic 2013Retaliationversion, with a tampographed Autobot insignia.
Despite being branded only as aTransformersproduct, this figure was exclusively available through both Fun Publications'G.I. JoeandTransformersCollectors' Clubonline stores.


Power of the Primes

(thumbnail)
Well, it's about timetheymade it.
  • Evolution Rodimus Prime(Leader Class, 2018)
    • TakaraTomy ID number:PP-08
    • TakaraTomy release date:May 25,2018
    • Accessories:trailer/evolution armor, evolution armor arms, rifle (formed by two blasters),Matrix of Leadershipframe, Matrix of Leadership core
Power of the Primes"Evolution Rodimus Prime" consists of a Deluxe-sized Hot Rod and a trailer, which can combine with the smaller robot to form the Leader-sized Rodimus Prime. Both robot modes feature exceptional articulation, largely due to the way both robot modes transform. However, neither has a rotating waist for the same reason. This figure features minimalpartsforming,with the Rodimus Prime fists being formed by attaching the two halves of the front end of the trailer to Hot Rod's knees.
He includes aMatrix of Leadershipaccessory that has a removable center crystal, allowing anyPrime Masterto take its place. The Matrix can be stored within Rodimus's robot mode chest. Unfortunately, neither of his robot modes can actually hold it due to having standard 5mm hands. His two guns, one of which is based on his original toy's Photon Rifle, can combine into a rifle similar to his Photon Eliminator. In vehicle mode, his weapons can be mounted in the two 5mm holes near the back end of his trailer or stored on Rodimus Prime's back. The trailer portion also has two pegs to stand aTitan Master,Prime Master,or decoy armor on.
Surprisingly, the TakaraTomy stock photos of the Hot Rod figure are mistransformed: His yellow spoiler is not present in robot mode. This is only possible in the toy by removing the entire canopy of Hot Rod's vehicle mode, which is attached by a mushroom joint. Like the last version, Hot Rod/Rodimus can use the Battle Master Firedrive.
Though designated for a first quarter 2018 release, Rodimus's wave reached U.S. store shelves in December 2017.


(thumbnail)
"Youarenothing!"
  • Evolution Rodimus Unicronus(Leader Class, 2018)
    • TakaraTomy ID number:PP-40
    • TakaraTomy release date:November 24,2018
    • Accessories:trailer/evolution armor, evolution armor arms, rifle (formed by two blasters),Matrix of Chaosframe, Matrix of Chaos core
Power of the Primes"Evolution Rodimus Unicronus" is a retool of the above Rodimus Prime toy, featuring a new goateed head and color scheme based on those ofShattered GlassRodimus.His smaller Deluxe-sized form is "Nemesis Hot Rod", and represents the character in aUnicron-corrupted state. He includes aMatrix of Chaosaccessory that has a removable center crystal, allowing anyPrime Masterto take its place. The Matrix can be stored within Rodimus's robot mode chest. It's best to be careful with the "RODIMUS" stickers on his knees, as they can and will peel off easily.
Stock renders released by Hasbro atNYCC2017 showed him with purple Decepticon insignias, but thephysical prototypeshad purple Autobot insignias instead, and the stock photos showed him with both. The finalized toy has Decepticon insignias.

Street Fighter II × Transformers

(thumbnail)
"So, wanna fight fire with fire, huh?"
  • Hot Rodimus [Ken] vs Arcee [Chun-Li](Two-pack,2018)
  • Release date:May 26,2018
  • Accessories:left & right rifles, Headmaster
Available as part of the exclusiveStreet Fighter II × Transformerstoyline, Hot Rodimus is a redeco ofLegendsTargetmaster Hot Rodimus(itself a retool ofTitans ReturnDeluxe ClassHot Rod) inKen's traditional colors, luxurious eyebrows, and flesh tones and all. He transforms from a robot to a Cybertronian sports car and back. TheStreet Fighter IIlogo is printed on the car's spoiler, and the smaller Headmaster's robot mode is also painted to resemble Ken.
Like all Deluxe-sizedTitans Returntoys, Hot Rodimus's cockpit can be opened to reveal a seat that allows anyTitan Master/Headmaster figure to pilot it in both modes. His two rifles can be clipped together to form a larger gun with a Headmaster seat; separately they can be pegged behind Hot Rodimus's front wheels or one can be pegged into his engine.
Hot Rodimus was only available in a two-pack withArcee[Chun-Li].This set was available for pre-order onTakaraTomy MallfromNovember 22to27,2017, with orders fulfilled in late May of 2018. A pre-order goal was set as well: if 3000 units were pre-ordered in total, the set would also come with clear display stands for both toys.
This two-pack was later brought to the West in 2022 as part of theTransformers Collaborativeline, released as aTargetandHasbro Pulseexclusive in the United States. These releases are functionally identical to the Takara versions; the Hasbro versions have new manufacturing tampographs, but are otherwise the same. They even have all of the Takara packaginginsidethe new Hasbro outer packaging!

Vintage G1

(thumbnail)
Till all are bought!
  • Hot Rod(Walmart exclusive reissue, 2018)
    • Accessories:2 photon lasers
In a very unexpected turn, the original Hot Rod toy was reissued as aWalmartexclusivein 2018, under theVintage G1banner, using the mold utilized forThe Transformers Collectionreissue (which includes the 5mm posts on his weapons). Like the original toy, Hot Rod entirely uses stickers instead of a combo of tampographs and stickers seen inThe Transformers Collectionrelease. However, unlike the original toy,Vintage G1Hot Rod uses "Targetmaster" -style chromed stickers, rather than flat colored versions. The rubsign is an all-new type used on all of theVintage G1toys; the insignia only turns red rather than the mood-ring multicolor of older rubsigns, plus the silver border is mirror-level reflective.
Unlike most of the original Hot Rod toys and the packaging stock photo, he is packaged with his vehicle front view facing backwards. Later shipments of the toy were packaged with Hot Rod's car facing frontwards.

Studio Series

(thumbnail)
Who needs thatSideswipe moldanyways!
  • Autobot Hot Rod(Voyager Class,2020-2021)
Released to commemorate the 35th anniversary ofThe Transformers: The Movie,Studio Series"Autobot Hot Rod" is a screen-accurate, Deluxe-sized mold that converts into the same ol' classic futuristic sports car. The colors, however, are a more toy-based red rather thanMovie-based magenta, due to management decision.[9]The toy is sold at a Voyager price point due to a noticeably higher parts count that yields more accessories, articulation, and transformation intricacy. Aside from his 2 photon blasters, Hot Rod also comes with a Matrix accessory (repackaged fromEarthriseOptimus Prime), an aura effect part to attach to the Matrix, a snap-on buzzsaw, and two blast effect parts that can attach to either of his exhaust pipes or guns.
Inside his helmet, he has a visor that can be deployed over his eyes as seen in theLookout Mountainscene, and his right hand can flip to be replaced with the welding torch he used to repairKuponQuintessa.His enhanced articulation includes opening hands that can grasp his Matrix and "butterfly" shoulder joints that aid him in assuming iconic poses from the film.
In vehicle mode Hot Rod's guns plug into his engine block and then his buzzsaw accessory plugs on top of the guns; this two-layered accessory stacking is also supported on his robot back and the roof of the car. However, tabbing the guns into the saw creates stress on the plastic slots of the saw. Additionally, since both the guns and the engine are painted, this risks leaving scratches. Similarly, caution should be used when uniting and separating the painted silver pipes on the arms and legs during transformation, as the clips that connect the arm and leg pipes are small and prone to snapping. Although there's nothing official in terms of storage for the Matrix, you can sort of stuff it in his chest in both modes.
As with otherStudio Seriesfigures, the interior of the packaging can form a diorama display for the figure. In this case, it is the shot of Hot Rod about to open the Matrix as he stands withinUnicron's innards.
And of course, Hot Rod can holdLegendsFireboltor theSiegeBattle MasterFiredrive,though he cannot accommodate with Hot Rod's vehicle mode.
In 2021, Hot Rod's packaging was altered significantly in accordance with Hasbro's new plastic-free packaging approach. This packagingvariantwas released in the same wave asBumblebeemovieSoundwave,and came with different UPC and EAN barcodes than the original version.
This figure was also retooled intoShattered Glass CollectionRodimus.

War for Cybertron Trilogy

(thumbnail)
Definitely a whopper.
War for Cybertron TrilogyUnicroncomes with amini-figurineof Hot Rod, only about 10 millimeters tall. The original announcement showed a sculpt based on Hot Rod'sTitans Returndesign, but the final released figurine was based on the original G1 design (or more accurately, theStudio Seriesdesign above).

War for Cybertron: Kingdom

(thumbnail)
So THIS is whereRollerwent!
War for Cybertron: KingdomRodimus Prime is a Commander Class toy that transforms from acartoon-accuraterobot to a futuristic SUV,[12]which can attach to a trailer to form his futuristic truck mode. Despite appearances, Rodimus Prime isnota retool or engineering reuse of theStudio SeriesHot Rod toy; though they feature similar transformation steps, the key difference is the lack of a faux chest. The head seemingly reuses the CAD data fromEvolution Rodimus Prime's face sculpt. AWar for Cybertron Trilogystaple, Rodimus Prime and the trailer are littered with5 mm portsto facilitate theC.O.M.B.A.T. SystemorF.O.S.S.I.L. Technology.The line's relative scale demands that he must be smaller than previous Commander Class toys, though making up for his price tag is above average engineering and articulation, including a removable Matrix, collapsing wheels, and poseable hands featuring separate index fingers with knuckle joints!
The price is also filled out with a multitude of accessories. The trailer itself can fold out into theMobile Defense Bay,which Rodimus Prime can stand on and grasp the handles, plus anA.I.R. Lock Systemadapter on the front. The standing, twin-barreled cannon also detaches as its own unit, with sculpted tread detail. Undocumented in the instructions, the 5 mm post and tab on the turret can attach to Rodimus's spoiler to act as a large cannon backpack in robot mode, facilitated further by an undocumented second swivel joint that allows the cannon to swing around between the tips of the spoiler. The trailer also features a removable tray with 5 mm ports and dedicated storing spaces for the Matrix-aura and smoke blast effects.
Rodimus Prime also includes a foldable Photon Eliminator which stores on the 5 mm post under the spoiler in both modes (though not when the trailer is attached in vehicle mode) and theMatrix of Leadership,which of course, stores in his chest in both modes. A surprisingly-niche inclusion is theSword of Primus,which has a fold-out 5 mm post to attach to Rodimus's back in robot mode and can store on a pair of tabs under his vehicle mode. He also includes a whoppingteneffect parts, 7 of which are translucent blue redecos fromSiegeOmega Supreme,which can attach to the various 5 mm ports on the figure or the 3 mm posts at the tips of the Photon Eliminator and exhaust pipes. The other three are newly-molded Matrix-aura and exhaust pipe-smoke blast effects. Care must be taken when handling these three effects parts as they are made from thin, hard plastic that can break if bent, as opposed to the more durable mushy goodness of the other effects parts. The exhaust effects are molded in translucent blue, and appear as such in promotional images, but the final pieces are painted black.
On some copies, the spring-loaded lower halves of the trailer's smokestacks can get caught on some adjacent orange plastic when opening the trailer, requiring them to be manually moved aside. Another far more common problem is that Rodimus Prime's trailer does not fully close when the two large halves join together, causing a gap to be visible from above; this problem can occur with or without the turret inside the trailer. Some methods attempted to fix this include brushing clear polish on the large silver clips at the front of the trailer, and/or placing stickers inside the slots on top of the trailer. Caution should be taken when transforming him, as the paint on his windscreen piece can be easily chipped when the spoiler piece is folded against it.
In a unique twist, the toy was revealed byTakaraTomyand set for pre-order in Japanese markets beforeHasbro,which usually unveils upcoming toys before or simultaneously with TakaraTomy.
Rodimus Prime comes with one of four holographicGolden Diskcards from wave 1, which reveals apossible destinyof a key character.
Siegeaccessory mold:Omega Supreme'sFire Blast effects
  • Hasbro/TakaraTomy:
  • Hasbro:


(thumbnail)
One of your toys comes with a sword, and now suddenly every toy of yours wants a sword.
TF-Legacy-Core-first-wave-Sword.jpg
  • Autobot Hot Rod(Core Class,2022)
    • Hasbro ID number:WFC-K43
    • TakaraTomy ID number:KD EX-17
    • TakaraTomy release date:July 30,2022
    • Accessories:sword
Part of the final wave ofWar for Cybertron: KingdomCore Class toys, "Autobot Hot Rod" is a Legends Class-sized figure that transforms from a robot to a futuristic sports car in 8 steps. He comes with a sword that features both a 3 mm handle, that Hot Rod himself uses, and a 5 mm handle for a larger toy. The sword also has a 3 mm port to store it on Hot Rod's spoiler. His spoiler has a 3 mm port to attach the sword handle facing frontward, and it can be easily removed for some reason. As the lower legs and knee joints rely on friction to hold them in place, you could disconnect them while posing if your specimens' ball-and-socket joints are slightly tight enough.
Undocumented in the instructions is that the sword's handle can also plug onto the front end of the spoiler. The latter can be removed as a handheld weapon (with the sword combined) to form some kind of a pointy bowgun-rifle, or onto the other similarly-molded port on the back of the panel, which creates a better tolerance for the shoulder articulation but with a seemingly less stable connection if it wasn't for the single ratchet on its hinge joint.
Due to adesign flaw,it can be difficult to get Hot Rod's car roof to firmly latch into the chassis; on some specimens it is simply impossible.
As seen on his package art, his sword can combine withLegacyIguanusandSkywarp's accessories to create a larger weapon. Hot Rod was re-released alongside them in the first waveLegacyCore Class toys, as seen below, and given Hot Rod includes an Energon weapon and released in the final wave ofKingdom,it is likely Hot Rod was originally intended for release only inLegacy.
Hot Rod's stock renders depict his toy in a more pinkish shade of red and an unpainted red nose, evoking a gladiator noseguard.
Hot Rod was officially revealed during theDecember 3,2021Transformersteam roundtable with fans, and then appeared at retail inAsiajust a few days later. As such, Hot Rod is the lastWar for Cybertron Trilogytoy to be revealed and released.

Legacy

(thumbnail)
With him, the triad of that infamous scene in the movie can now be re-enacted in itty-bitty size.
  • Autobot Hot Rod(Core Class,2022)
  • Origin universe:G1 Universe
  • Accessories:sword
Part of the first wave ofLegacyCore Class toys, Autobot Hot Rod is apackage refreshof the previousKingdomfigure above, with no other changes besides his packaging.
The instructions now mention his sword being part of a combined weapon formed by joining it with the guns from hisLegacyCore Class wave-matesIguanusandSkywarp.


(thumbnail)
Fireboltsadly not included. Release date also not included.
  • Autobot Hot Rod(Voyager Class,2023)
  • Accessories:2 photon lasers, Buzzsaw, 2 Fire Blast effects
Intended to be part of the second wave of theVelocitron Speedia 500 Collection,Autobot Hot Rod was to be a redeco of theStudio Seriesfigure in colors reminiscent of his original 1986 toy release. The blast effects included have also been recolored orange, and the blade of his buzzsaw is now translucent blue. The Matrix accessory and associated effect part are omitted.
Hasbro'sstock photographyhas the figure mistransformed - his lower legs are not properly collapsed in. However, this is one rare case where the mistransformation actuallyworksto further the intended homage, as the original 1986 Hot Rod toy this one is emulating also had the vehicle mode exhaust pipes and wheels exposed on the sides of the legs.
Despite numerous aesthetic differences between the two molds, Hot Rod's package art reuses the art from the Core class toy above. They did at least edit out the combined sword accessory Hot Rod was originally wielding in said art though.
TheVelocitron Speedia 500 Collectionwas exclusive toWalmartin the US, andTakaraTomy Mallin Japan. Hot Rod was listed on Walmart's website before any official announcement by Hasbro, seemingly intended for a Winter/Spring release in 2023, but this ultimately never came to be, not even in TakaraTomy's version of the line. While claimed to not be "canceled", Walmart quickly moved on from theVelocitron Collection,and Hasbro has no plans to release Autobot Hot Rod.[13][14]
Your bargaining posture is highly dubious.

Proceed on your way to oblivion.
This item has been canceled, with no current plans for release.

Transformers Retro

(thumbnail)
Pink is the new old.
  • Autobot Hot Rod(2023)
Hot Rod'soriginal toywas reissued byWalmartonce again in 2023, this time under the branding ofTransformers Retro,though the packaging lacks that name, instead havingThe Transformers: The Moviebranding. This release retains the larger fist holes and the modified-handle guns from prior re-releases, but is now in an extensively-painted deco intended to replicate his original cartoon character model as closely as possible. This results in the first Hot Rod toy to accurately represent the shade of pink he is actually depicted with in the movie! This also means the original mold's chromed pieces are now a flat light gray plastic instead. All of Hot Rod's details are achieved with tampographs rather than stickers.
The box features original art byMarcelo Matere[15]of Hot Rod in robot and vehicle mode laid over a scene of the interior of one of theAutobot shuttlesfeatured in the film. Interestingly, the art appears to useStudio Series'86 Hot Rod as a model.
Transformers RetroAutobot Hot Rod was announced and went up for preorder onOctober 6,2022 as part of Walmart's Collector Con event. However, precious few samples seemingly ever made it to brick-and-mortar stores.


Adamas Machina

(thumbnail)
3P Companies, eat your heart out.
  • Rodimus(2025)
Part ofT-SPARK'sAdamas Machinaline of high-end collectibles, this figure of Rodimus is modeled after his appearance in the2005 IDW continuity,particularly hisMore than Meets the Eyedesign. Transforming into a Cybertronian supercar, Rodimus also features amounts of die-cast metal.


Or you could pick... WHAT'S IN THE BOX.

This item is currently scheduled for release, but is not yet available at mass retail.

Notes

(thumbnail)
I was pink once.
  • Miscommunication between Hasbro and Takara that neglected to mention the fact that Rodimus Prime was supposed to be the new Autobot leader and the upgrade of Hot Rod led to Takara creating the originalprototypefor the G1 Hot Rod toy in three times the final size, about as tall asBeast MachinesNightscream.When Hasbro corrected Takara about those details, Takara's designers were disappointed because they had to make Rodimus Prime's toy larger than Hot Rod's.[16]
  • In an odd intra-Hasbro design move, both of Hot Rod's original guns were reused for weapon toolings on theCobraStellar Stilettoin 1988. The larger handgun is the nosecone cannon, while the smaller (facing backwards) is the basis for the longer missiles. Hey, Hot Rod was occupied withFireboltat the time anyway, right?
(thumbnail)
New Rodimus, not to be confused with New Coke.
  • New Rodimuswas the tentative name for an unused Rodimus Prime design revealed in the Japanese bookTransformers Generations.Unlike his predecessors, he would have transformed into a fire engine. According to the caption in the book, New Rodimus would have come out afterStar Convoy,and his transformation would involve splitting at the waist.
    Previously, fans believed that the idea for New Rodimus's transformation was eventually used by theBravetoyDuke Fire,which is also a fire engine that splits at the waist in order to transform. However, a discussion withTakarastaff revealed that this was a coincidence, as Duke Fire's designer had not seen the New Rodimus design.[17]As seen below, this revelation did not come before a story homaging Duke Fire'sassumed connectionto New Rodimus was published, retroactively linking the two.
HyperHobbyRodimusTestshot.jpg

References

  1. ↑"I first thought that Hot Rod with extended legs was some sort of prototype figure that was only seen in the 1986 catalog. But it turns out all Hot Rods have this feature. Apparently there are more details sculpted into the knees of the figure, but for whatever reasons Takara decided not to engineer the lower legs to extend far enough to see these areas." —Evil King Macrocranios, Roboplastic Apocalypse, "Hot Mod", 2007/08/13
  2. ↑Targetmaster Hot Rod MISBat Super Toy Archive.
  3. ↑"Collector Interview 30 – Karl Hartman"at the TFSource blog.
  4. ↑Hasbro stock photo forClassicsRodimus,depicting the short stubs on his forearms that were soon retooled into larger pegs.
  5. ↑TFW2005 reports on the Philippines Autobot Alliance/Cybertron Con event. June 18, 2010
  6. ↑NYCC 2017 John Warden interview
  7. ↑The Japanese text on the packaging is ホットロディマス / "Hot Rodimus", but the English subtitle says "Hot Rod".
  8. ↑Transformers PanelatHasbro Pulse Con 2024withBen MacCrae,Evan Brooks,Mark Maher,Marcelo Matere,andNate Purswell.
  9. ↑"Before we move to final production, we have a big team meeting where we all come together and look at the figures and deco before approving them. While presenting this item and the first wave of kingdom, there was some rumbling from upper management. The original colors presented were pure magenta and that came as a bit of a shock to a few folks. The reaction is understandable, every toy of classic Hotrod has been some variation of red. There was some back and forth, references shown on both sides as to what colors he should be and this is how he ended up. I was still so new to the team that my voice didn't carry that much weight even while showing clips of the 86 movie. I think there was still some confusion as to what this SS86 line was supposed to be but I'm happy to say that this was the only time this sort of thing has ever happened. Granted, Kingdom Cheetor and Megatron also had their colors shifted in this meeting...which was just strange...but that's corporate life." —Evan Brooks, Instagram, 2022/04/13
  10. ↑HasLab Unicron development reports at theHasbro Pulse blog.
  11. ↑KingdomRodimus Prime on Amazon Japan
  12. ↑TranslatedTransformers Generations 2021interview with Yuya Onishi and Takashi Kunihiro
  13. ↑Recap of Transformers Fan Roundtable at TFW2005
  14. ↑Transformers Marketing Team Interview on YouTube
  15. ↑"Some of my latest Transformers package art finally revealed! I was responsible for the robot, vehicle and backgrounds pencils!Having a blast working on this line! The Transformers package team did a great job as usual! #transformers #pencil #marcelomatere #marcelomaterearthttps://t.co/ZPB3gMQl8x"—Marcelo Matere, Twitter, 2022/10/06
  16. ↑Information provided by Fumihiko Akiyama, incorporated in essay about "Ten popular but incorrect rumors about Japanese Transformers" at TF Archive
  17. ↑"Also talked w/TakaraTomy team. Brave's Duke Fire NOT based on New Rodimus, per designer of Duke Fire. He was not aware of that Rod design.https://t.co/4eoAcycVWa"—Matthew Karpowich, Twitter, 2017/09/11
  18. ↑BotCon 2014 attendee report by griffin
  19. ↑"Rodimouse!https://t.co/HFzdBtvyfp"—Jesse Wittenrich, Twitter, 2016/08/08
Retrieved from "https://tfwiki.net/mediawiki/index.php?title=Hot_Rod_(G1)/toys&oldid=1796411"
Advertisement
TFsource.com - Your Source for Everything Transformers!