Animus

Animus is a ghost-like demon which haunts the racing car 'The Flying Dutchman'. His first and only appearance is in the comic Fast Lane, published in the Cartoon Network Action Pack series, issue 4.

Appearance
Animus appears as a semi-translucent, de-saturated grey-blue phantom-like creature, several times the size of Ben's Ghostfreak transformation. Along with circular eyes, glowing yellow, Animus' distinguishing feature are his large gear-shapes appearing to float inside the shoulder-blade area of his body.

History
'Cursed by a Speed Demon', and trapped within a realm residing in the 'trans-dimensional doorway' of the infamous racing car 'The Flying Dutchmans engine, Animus seeks out a 'new part' to become his replacement, and be 'granted a seat at the table of victory'.

Animus is unable to leave his confinement until someone is able to best him in a race -or as he says 'battle'-, without him intentionally slowing to lose.

Seemingly finding his replacement in Ben Tennyson -who was in the form of his transformation Ghostfreak- Animus seeks out any opportunity to have Ben become his replacement.

While investigating -with her cousin- the mysterious car "The Flying Dutchman" (after hearing it has recently been wiping out all competition), Gwen Tennyson is taken hostage by Animus, who uses her to incite a race against Ben in the hopes of freeing himself from his curse.

Ben, along with his Grandpa Max, as well as his transformation Upgrade is just able to beat Animus in the race, passing the line by seconds whilst de-transforming.

As he does, the Flying Dutchman falls to pieces, releasing Gwen, with no sign of Animus in sight.

Powers and Abilities
Animus is limited to the confines of the 'Flying Dutchman', but at times -as shown by his capture of Gwen Tennyson, is able to reach outside the car momentarily.

Using the Flying Dutchman, Animus is able to wipe out all the competition in the time trial races that he comes across. Later when racing Ben Tennyson, he shoots an acidic substance across the track.

It's implied that he used people's spirits to fuel the car, as he threatens Ben with the fate - who brings up the matter later in the comic.

Comics

 * Fast Lane (first appearance)