● Function: Warrior
● Transformation: Chevrolet Corvette
Tracks cherishes his Earth vehicle mode and is deeply connected to his Binaltech body, meticulously crafted by General Motors with their full resources. His vanity has intensified over time, making him increasingly self-conscious. He loathes any harm that befalls his body, and this heightened concern has sometimes led to lapses in concentration during battles, putting his own safety at risk. Presently, he's been entrusted with a significant role as one of the few Cybertrons capable of flight. With unwavering courage, he thrusts himself into perilous battlefields, relying on advanced force-field technology to bolster his defences.
● Weapon(s): Black Beam Gun; Heat Seeking Incendiary Missiles; Dual Plasma Shotgun
STR...6; INT...6; SPD...7; END...8; RNK...5; CRG...6; FPR...9; SKL...8
Tech Spec values are taken from Hirofumi Ichikawa's initial notes
Chevrolet Corvette
This is a faithful reproduction of the "Z06," a specialised performance variant of the C5 Chevrolet Corvette, America's esteemed high-performance sports car. It is named after the legendary 1963 race car. It attained top-tier specifications through several enhancements and, upon its 2001 release, commanded a premium price, becoming immensely popular in the United States.
BT-06 Cybertron Tracks
BODY
The sleek body design is faithfully reproduced, showcasing outstanding aerodynamic characteristics with a Cd value of 0.29.
FRONT WHEELS
HEAD
His primary weapon is the Black Beam Gun, a sophisticated armament that
projects a kinetic energy beam infused with a hyper-kinetic black gaseous
substance known as "Black Light." This formidable tool envelops his target in
a force field, disrupting their optical circuits, and the impact force of the
swirling gases inflicts substantial damage.
The integration of repulsor force panels and aerodynamic force fields in
different sections of his vehicle form theoretically enables Tracks to achieve
flight without the requirement of his former flight mode. Nonetheless, this
design alteration leads to a significant drop in combat effectiveness and
speed during flight, and due to Tracks' unique aesthetic preferences that
prioritise appearance over functionality, these features are rarely used.
Additionally, the vehicle's exterior panels are coated with the latest
functional pigment from DuPont. This innovative coating allows Tracks to alter
his body colour, effectively camouflaging himself or projecting dynamic video
images of the surroundings, rendering him nearly invisible.
STORY OF BINALTECH
What is Binaltech…
Twenty years have passed since the Transformers made contact with humankind and since then the world has dramatically changed. The Cybertron’s and humans are now inseparable partners in destiny. By combining their technologies they have created a new generation of warriors, the “Binaltech Transformers” who have made great strides against the more powerful Destron threat. At the same time on planet Seibertron which has long been dominated by the Destrons, Megatron the Emperor of Destruction has finally launched a war of conquest to wipe out all Cybertron resistance. While the greatest Cybertron warriors were being sent into battle, this left Earth, their vital source of energy, exposed as a target for their enemies to conquer. Thus the future of Earth and the Cybertrons is in the hands of the Binaltech Transformers, their warriors of hope!
Chevrolet Corvette Vehicle Data
The Chevrolet Corvette, produced by the General Motors (GM) division,
celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2003 and stands as one of America's most
iconic sports cars. It boasts the longest history and the largest production
volume of sports cars with the same name worldwide.
The current C5, the fifth-generation model introduced in 1997, represents an advanced version with numerous cutting-edge features while upholding the traditions of a two-seater design. It retains its lightweight FRP body, characteristic long nose and short deck proportions, an impressive wide and low centre of gravity, an FR layout, and a substantial displacement engine.
The new LS6 engine delivers impressive power output and substantial torque. Notably, it marks Chevrolet's first foray into aluminium construction for a conventional engine, yet it retains its traditional V8 OHV configuration. The body structure exhibits remarkable rigidity while remaining lightweight, thanks to the use of a single steel or pressed perimeter frame, manufactured through GM's innovative 'hydroforming' method. The drivetrain layout incorporates a transaxle system with the transmission located at the rear. This front-rear weight distribution results in a near-ideal balance of 51:49, closely mirroring the optimal front-rear balance of a rear-wheel-drive (RWD) vehicle.
The most recent models have achieved a level of maturity, incorporating several advanced mechanisms. Among these innovations is the “Magnetic Selective Ride Control” suspension system, a project GM has been researching since the 1970's. This system utilises electromagnetic coils and magnetically sensitive fluids, allowing for real-time, precise control, with adjustments made in 1/1000-second increments to adapt to changing road conditions.
Other Resources:
- Transformers Binaltech Toy List
- Transformers Alternators Toy List
- Transformers Binaltech Translated Bios
- Transformers Binaltech Story Translation
- Full BT-06 Tracks Gallery
- Full BT-06 Tracks Blue Version Gallery
Jump to on this page:
Overview
In October 2003, Walmart's inventory systems hinted at the upcoming
release of the next Alternators figure, which was none other than
Tracks. Then, in January 2004, an eBay auction showcased a prototype
that deviated from the original blue colour scheme, presenting Tracks in
a shade of yellow.
|
| Alternators prototype from the eBay auction |
Hasbro would officially unveil the figure at the 2004 Toy Fair which was
a similar prototype to the prior eBay auction but this version had been
hand painted.
|
| Toy Fair 2004 |
While some fans voiced objections to the yellow colour, it became
apparent that this choice was a requirement imposed by General Motors.
Hasbro and Takara faced difficulties in obtaining the licensing rights
from General Motors. Initially, they contemplated releasing Tracks as a
Dodge Viper, but eventually, the car company reconsidered, allowing
Tracks to don an updated Corvette vehicle form.
However, in July 2004, a blue version of Tracks made its debut at the
2004 San Diego Comic Con. Subsequently, it was disclosed that Hasbro had
faced challenges in achieving the correct yellow plastic hue, which
tended to be too transparent and was noticeable in the leaked
prototypes. Consequently, they made the decision to revert to Tracks'
original blue colour scheme.
Nevertheless, the distinctive yellow colour persisted, as Takara later
introduced a yellow version of Tracks. In April 2004, an unpainted
prototype was showcased in Dengeki Hobby magazine, and by June 2004, the
magazine offered a preview of the fully painted prototype.
|
| Dengeki Hobby Magazine April 2004 issue (left) & June 2004 issue (right). Source: TFormers.com |
In August 2004, BT-06 Tracks was announced for release in Japan.
Notably, the instruction manual featured a slight variation of Tracks,
featuring spring-loaded shotguns mounted on the forearms, unlike the
retractable versions found on the final production figure.
Tracks underwent a transformation into a Z06 C5 Chevrolet Corvette.
However, this time, he lacked an alternate transformation for flight
mode. This omission was elucidated in the 'System Description' section
of the instruction manual, which we've translated below. The same
description also clarifies how Tracks could alter his colour, dispelling
any notions that the blue version was from an alternate universe.
Notably, the vehicle mode featured impressive details, including an
opening bonnet that revealed the engine, which doubled as Tracks'
weapon, and functional opening doors.
The transformation process strikes a balance between simplicity and
complexity, resulting in a robot mode that effectively pays homage to
the updated G1 Tracks. This is achieved through features like rocket
engines and broad shoulders that evoke Tracks' original wings."
Personally, I still consider Tracks to be one of the less impressive
Binaltech figures. After revisiting the figure for the first time since
2004, my opinions haven't changed. The main issue I have with the figure
is related to the legs. The front of the car rests on the back of the
robot legs, and the car doors on the hips can be quite obstructive.
Furthermore, the hinges connecting the car doors to the robot have
developed noticeable cracks on both sides, a concern not present on my
blue version.
In late August 2004, an online shop called Image Anime inadvertently
revealed that Takara had plans to release a blue version of Tracks in
December of the same year. Takara officially showcased the figure on
their website, and it hit the shelves a month ahead of schedule, in
November. This blue variant shared the same packaging as the yellow
version, with the only distinction being a blue sticker on the box
window, which translated as "Blue Version BT-06 Tracks feat Chevrolet
Corvette with special sticker".
The sticker was a flame sticker to attach to the bonnet as a homage to
the original G1 toy.
Tracks would later be released a black redeco the following year with a
slight remould as a convertible vehicle with a new head sculpt, not as
"Loudpedal" but Ravage (interestingly this was not named Jaguar).
Translations
Back of the box
Transformers Binaltech
The transforming car robots were the core product of the original Transformers. Now they have been upgraded for the modern era with fully licensed vehicle modes. The vehicle mode is 1/24 scale with opening and closing doors as well as a detailed interior. The car is fully painted to reproduce the quality of the real car with a finish to match that of a scale model. The robot mode is fully articulated allowing you to enjoy various action poses.
The transforming car robots were the core product of the original Transformers. Now they have been upgraded for the modern era with fully licensed vehicle modes. The vehicle mode is 1/24 scale with opening and closing doors as well as a detailed interior. The car is fully painted to reproduce the quality of the real car with a finish to match that of a scale model. The robot mode is fully articulated allowing you to enjoy various action poses.
Instruction Manual Page 1 & 2 (Same text as the back of the box)
This is a faithful reproduction of the "Z06," a specialised performance variant of the C5 Chevrolet Corvette, America's esteemed high-performance sports car. It is named after the legendary 1963 race car. It attained top-tier specifications through several enhancements and, upon its 2001 release, commanded a premium price, becoming immensely popular in the United States.
The newest iteration of Tracks, renowned as the "most beautiful
Cybertron," has been reborn as a Chevrolet Corvette, harkening back to his
original design. Retaining the character's iconic well-balanced
proportions, this version faithfully replicates the silhouette of his
initial form, cleverly incorporating a previously optional weapon into the
transformation.
The bonnet can be easily opened and closed, and the engine housed inside
serves as a weapon in robot mode. ENGINE
BODY
The sleek body design is faithfully reproduced, showcasing outstanding aerodynamic characteristics with a Cd value of 0.29.
Crafted exclusively for the Z06, the ultra-lightweight supercar tires,
wheels, and brake discs, have been meticulously designed.
EXHAUST PIPES
The actual vehicle features four titanium exhausts.
An exquisitely crafted head that boasts full posability thanks to a ball
joint.
HAND
In addition to wielding the weapon, the flexible hands can be utilised for a range of expressive gestures.
In addition to wielding the weapon, the flexible hands can be utilised for a range of expressive gestures.
SECRET WEAPON
Transforms from an LS6 Engine into a “Black Beam Gun”.
Transforms from an LS6 Engine into a “Black Beam Gun”.
Instruction Manual Page 9 & 10
SYSTEM DESCRIPTION
Given the absence of air support within the Cybertron Earth Defence Force,
Tracks' body underwent a targeted redesign to enhance its aerial combat
capabilities, with a specific emphasis on air combat in robot mode and
improved manoeuvrability. The redesign includes two mobile rocket engines as
dorsal thrusters, enabling short subsonic flights, and they are capable of
launching multi-warhead heat-seeking incendiary missiles from their tips.
Additionally, both arms are equipped with dual plasma shotguns.
What is Binaltech…
Twenty years have passed since the Transformers made contact with humankind and since then the world has dramatically changed. The Cybertron’s and humans are now inseparable partners in destiny. By combining their technologies they have created a new generation of warriors, the “Binaltech Transformers” who have made great strides against the more powerful Destron threat. At the same time on planet Seibertron which has long been dominated by the Destrons, Megatron the Emperor of Destruction has finally launched a war of conquest to wipe out all Cybertron resistance. While the greatest Cybertron warriors were being sent into battle, this left Earth, their vital source of energy, exposed as a target for their enemies to conquer. Thus the future of Earth and the Cybertrons is in the hands of the Binaltech Transformers, their warriors of hope!
The current C5, the fifth-generation model introduced in 1997, represents an advanced version with numerous cutting-edge features while upholding the traditions of a two-seater design. It retains its lightweight FRP body, characteristic long nose and short deck proportions, an impressive wide and low centre of gravity, an FR layout, and a substantial displacement engine.
The new LS6 engine delivers impressive power output and substantial torque. Notably, it marks Chevrolet's first foray into aluminium construction for a conventional engine, yet it retains its traditional V8 OHV configuration. The body structure exhibits remarkable rigidity while remaining lightweight, thanks to the use of a single steel or pressed perimeter frame, manufactured through GM's innovative 'hydroforming' method. The drivetrain layout incorporates a transaxle system with the transmission located at the rear. This front-rear weight distribution results in a near-ideal balance of 51:49, closely mirroring the optimal front-rear balance of a rear-wheel-drive (RWD) vehicle.
The most recent models have achieved a level of maturity, incorporating several advanced mechanisms. Among these innovations is the “Magnetic Selective Ride Control” suspension system, a project GM has been researching since the 1970's. This system utilises electromagnetic coils and magnetically sensitive fluids, allowing for real-time, precise control, with adjustments made in 1/1000-second increments to adapt to changing road conditions.
Specifications
Overall Length: 4564mm
Overall Width: 1869mm
Overall Height: 1227mm
Wheelbase: 2654mm
Vehicle Weight: 1413kg
Engine: Water-cooled V8 OHV
Bore x Stroke: 99.1×91.9mm
Total Displacement: 5670cc
Maximum Output: 385ps/6000rpm
Maximum Torque: 53.2kgm/4800rpm
Compression Ratio: 10.5:1
Transmission: 6 Speed Manual Transmission
Wheel: Aluminium
Fuel Tank Capacity: 70L
*These specifications are for the 2001 “Z06”.
Overall Length: 4564mm
Overall Width: 1869mm
Overall Height: 1227mm
Wheelbase: 2654mm
Vehicle Weight: 1413kg
Engine: Water-cooled V8 OHV
Bore x Stroke: 99.1×91.9mm
Total Displacement: 5670cc
Maximum Output: 385ps/6000rpm
Maximum Torque: 53.2kgm/4800rpm
Compression Ratio: 10.5:1
Transmission: 6 Speed Manual Transmission
Wheel: Aluminium
Fuel Tank Capacity: 70L
*These specifications are for the 2001 “Z06”.
No comments:
Post a Comment