We first saw Hot Rod back in the 80′s during Transformers: the Animated Movie, as the young Autobot who played a sort of ‘bigger brother’ role to Daniel Witwicky. He was the first to spot the Decepticons before their attack on Autobot City, the battle which cost Optimus Prime his life.

It was later during the battle within Unicron that Hot Rod managed to steal back the Matrix of Leadership from Galvatron (who stole it from Ultra Magnus originally) and rose to become Rodimus Prime. Rodimus Prime then used the Matrix to destroy Unicron and lead the Autobots as they reclaimed Cybertron and continued their battle against the Decepticons over the coming months.

Rodimus Prime was a energetic leader and often rushed into action.  After some time the pressures of command really bagan to wear him down as he constantly compared himself to Optimus Prime. Shortly after these problems began to arise, Optimus Prime was repaired and brought back to life to lead once again. This is where we saw Rodimus Prime become Hot Rod once again.

In the US Continuity Hot Rod continued as a loyal soldier under Optimus Prime, but Japan had other plans for ‘Rodimus Convoy’ (as he was named). In the early days of the Transformers Headmasters cartoon, Optimus Prime sacrificed himself to save Cybertron, giving command and the Matrix back to Rodimus. Rodimus then lead the Autobots once again until Cybertron was finally destroyed by Scorponok. Rodimus then left, saying his goodbyes, to go find a new home for the Autobots.

Rodimus Prime would eventually return, but as Hot Rod – a loyal soldier who fought along side Star Convoy (a resurrected Optimus Prime, brought back to reassume command from Dai Atlas and defeat the newly resurrected Super Megatron).

Hot Rod:

Function: Cavalier
“My Actions speak louder than words”

“HOT ROD is an all-American-boy Autobot. He’s a typical adolescent who dreams of being Heroic andimportant. he tends to follow rules too closely. Although hemeans well, Hot Rod’s impulsive actions often get him into trouble. He carries two photon asers that temporarily electro-magnetize an enemy robot’s microcircuits. Speed 120mph. Range: 4 miles. He can be hotheaded, but he’s always a well meaning, admirable lad and a brave and honorable fighter.”

Strength: 10
Intelligence: 10
Speed: 9
Endurance: 10
Rank: 10
Courage: 7
Firepower: 10
Skill: 10

Rodimus Prime:

Function: Protector
“Experience is the benchmark of maturity.”

A vanguard for the Autobot ranks. Possesses acute military prowess. Speaks with the savvy of seasoned veteran. Expert tactician with exceptional maneuverability in battle. Can be hot-headed at times. Has a tendency to act first and ask questions later. In robot mode, carries a photon eliminator that shoots high voltage electricity. Range: 500 miles. Speed: 200mph. Sole purpose is to protect all life. His only weakness is his compassion for other living creatures.

Strength: 10
Intelligence: 10
Speed: 9
Endurance: 10
Rank: 10
Courage: 10
Firepower: 9
Skill: 10