Transformers Robots in Disguise (RID 2001)

Hasbro rebranded the ready-to-go Car Robots line as Transformers: Robots in Disguise. They added other readily-available molds as new characters and made the classic Transformers branding more obvious by applying faction symbols to the characters' vehicle modes. They also rebranded the Combatron sub-faction as Decepticons. As sales increased and more toys were required, Hasbro included even more redecorated toys to expand the line further. Ultimately, Robots in Disguise included molds from every American toyline that had been produced up to that point, including several cancelled or delayed molds from previous lines. This led to a significant increase in store exclusive releases, departing from the preceding "Beast Era" lines. Robots in Disguise was the first and only time that an existing Japanese line was imported wholesale to the U.S. The line was well-received by fans, particularly those who had found the Car Robots import prices too expensive and sold well to children, setting up a positive audience for the upcoming Armada line.