transformers smokescreen (alternators/binaltech)

Smokescreen was the first Transformers to be released in the highly anticipated Alternators/Binaltech toy line by Hasbro/Takara. Smokescreen's alternate mode is a Subaru Impreza WRC (2003). Smokescreen captures a fantastic amount of detail from the real car while still providing plenty of poseability in robot form.

Serial Number

Binaltech - BT-01
Alternators - #1

Accessories

The engine turned into an "Electro-Disruptor Rifle".

Charactor Card Information

Autobot Tactician
Function: Diversionary Tactician

From the Binaltech box: The first Autobot warrior revived through the Binal-Tech Project. Save for the quantum computers of his cerebral section and his primary armament, his entire design was carried out by Japan's Fuji Heavy Industries, Inc. and STi, thoroughly reproducing all of Smokescreen's essential functions. In vehicle mode, he can reach a top speed of 230 km/h and can fire smoke cartridges from his tailpipe. He has taken on his previous role of clearing away his teammates' anxieties and fears, and in his current revival, he has come to strongly encourage other development teams and Autobot fighters. Card translation by Doug Dlin.

Vehicle Mode

Smokescreen's offering as the first in the line of highly detailed Transformers does not disapoint and far surpasses any Transformer that came before it. The paint job very closely matches the real vehicle that Smokescreen is based on with a even blue and dozens of logos that cover the car. The logos are the real sponsors and if you look closely at the very front you can see the stars from Subaru's logo in the grill. All four doors open along with the hood and trunk. The front wheels are connected by a bar underneath the car (with the help of two magnets) so when you turn one wheel the other wheel will turn with it. When you look inside the you will find a steering wheel that turns, seats that adjust and a detailed console where you can make out the gauges. A shifter, emergency break and turn signal bar are also present. Although not as perfect Smokescreen's legs create the rear seats. When you open the hood you will find the engine with an Autobot logo on it. Overall it is the attention to detail that is everywhere that is what makes Smokescreen shine. From the hood locks to the CD player the vehicle is well done.

Homage

Smokescreen is very faithful to the original generation one Smokescreen. He has many similarities beyond the name and the fact that he is a blue vehicle which makes him easily recognizable as a Transformers Smokescreen such as:

Arms that fold up into the engine compartment
Rear window becoming the shins
Side doors becoming "wings"
Very similar face and helmet

Variations

While the alternator line only released one Smokescreen, the Binaltech line released two. They were very similar, but had a few minor differences:

The number seven or eight was printed on the top and on the doors.
The number seven version license plate is "S40WRT" while the number eight license plate reads "S30WRT"
There is a image of a cartoon pig that only on the side view mirrors of the number seven version.
The number seven version of the car has the names of Solberg and Mills on the rear door windows while the number eight version has the names of Makinen and Lindstrom, indicating the names of the drivers of each respective car. Each name has the flag of that drivers' nationality next to it.

Alternators/Binaltech differences: