That's simply a gameplay description for someone inside a vehicle. Think about it; If you were piloting a tank, your enemy would need to the destroy the tank in order to destroy you. Also if you look at the graphic, the Goblin is literally sitting inside the vehicle.
I also think this is quite interesting;
Because it could justify a Tinker class wearing robotic suits ala Ironman, and thusly open up the class to other races.
Find anything on what? I don't know what you're talking about here. Please clarify.
Again, apparition literally means "ghost". The talent that boosts this ability is called Auspicious Spirits. So yes, you are summoning ghosts.