The Batmobile is easily the most famous vehicle in all of comics. Batman has had a number of cars over the years, from Adam West’s stylish convertible to the “Tumbler” tank of the Nolanverse. Detective Comics #1108 reveals a new Batmobile that lacks the aesthetic charm of earlier models. However, what it lacks in looks, it more than makes up for in functionality.
Written by Tom Taylor, with art by Pete Woods and Bruno Abdias, Detective Comics #1108 finds Black Canary, Batman, and Green Arrow working a case together. Someone is killing whistleblowers who were reporting the crimes of the Klep Corp. This would be enough to get the heroes involved, even if Klep Corp weren’t in the middle of a hostile takeover of Queen Industries.
After an odd encounter at a cemetery, Bruce Wayne says they can discuss the case in his car. The car in question turns out to be a modest hatchback. When Oliver Queen questions this, Batman points out that it is useful for avoiding attention. However, as with most things involving the Dark Knight, there is more to the new Batmobile than meets the eye.
Why Batman’s new Batmobile is a hatchback
Once inside the car, Batman activates a remote connection to the Batcomputer and Oracle through a holographic HUD. Barbara Gordon informs them that the last whistleblower is being moved. She also dubs the new Batmobile “the Hatchbat,” to the delight of Dinah Lance and Oliver Queen. Batman, naturally, refuses to acknowledge the name.
Whatever the new Batmobile is called, it has a lot more going for it than fuel efficiency. It is durable enough to survive falling off a bridge, a fact that is shown when the convoy escorting the whistleblower is attacked. It is also capable of transforming into a miniature submarine. However, because it is a Batmobile, it also sprouts a Batman symbol when Bruce Wayne isn’t trying to blend in.
Detective Comics #1108 is now available at comic shops everywhere.
