The 9 V system ran from 1991 to 2006 and is still a favourite with LEGO train fans. The rails have metal tops that carry the current from a speed regulator to a motor under the locomotive, so trains could run without batteries for as long as they stayed on the track. It started with 4558 Metroliner in 1991.
1999 LEGO Sets
1999 was a landmark year with the launch of LEGO Star Wars, the company’s first licensed theme, debuting alongside The Phantom Menace. This partnership with Lucasfilm transformed LEGO’s strategy and ushered in the era of licensed themes. New original lines included Rock Raiders, Slizers (Throwbots), and Adventurers: Jungle, while LEGO Education was formally established from LEGO Dacta. Several older themes—Cyberslam, TechPlay, UFO, Insectoids, Znap, and Model Team—were retired, marking a clear generational shift toward modern play concepts and digital engagement.