Powertrain is an Autobot who transforms between his robot mode and his vehicle mode. He belongs to a group called the Micromasters who are split into different trypes of Patrols (four Transformers in each Patrol), Powertrain belonging to the Off Road Patrol (along with High Jump, Mudslinger and Tote). This team works well together and is very independent. In their role of Covert Activities their job is to "come up with brilliant counter-measures to be sprung on the Decepticons" (according to their Tech spec).

The Generation 1 Powertrain was released in a pack of four along with High Jump, Mudslinger and Tote (all Generation 1 as well) in 1989.