4512V covers the LEGO trains of the 4.5 V and 12 V systems from the 1970s and 1980s. The 4.5 V trains ran on batteries carried in a wagon or tender, while the 12 V trains drew power from conductor rails laid between the running rails, fed by a transformer with a speed control. Until 1980 the track was blue, which gave these years the name of the Blue Era.
1972 LEGO Sets
1972 was a pivotal year in LEGO’s U.S. expansion. Following the end of its Samsonite license, LEGO founded LEGO USA in Brookfield, Connecticut, while Samsonite continued production in Canada. The year also brought key new parts—including the first boat hulls, wings, propellers, and helicopter rotors—broadening creative possibilities. Trains remained a major focus with sets such as 181 Train Set with Motor, 180 4.5V Train with 5 Wagons, and 724 12V Diesel Locomotive, continuing to enhance LEGO’s realism and play depth.