Two years ago Lego Icons released the excellent Lego Transformers Optimus Prime (10302) The model came out due to an exciting collaboration between Lego and Hasbro, and represented a new direction for the Lego Icons range. This exciting Lego Optimus Prime had the ability to transform from the iconic Freightliner FL86 cab over semi truck to Orion Pax’s Autobot form (or Optimus Prime as we know him on Earth) and it looked fantastic. 

And now 2024 sees the release of another Transformer. Originating from the planet of Cybertron the small yet determined Autobot known as B-127 is set to be welcomed into the Lego Icons collection.

“Sting like a bee.”

This year, Lego is introducing the Autobots ‘little brother’ into the Lego Icons range. And BOY are we excited for this set! Bumblebee is a firm fan favourite within the Transformers universe. His iconic look and personality make him instantly recognisable. Fans of the original cartoon from the 80s will notice that this set takes much of its inspiration from the Generation 1 form of Bumblebee, rather than the later Michael Bay films.

The Lego Icons Bumblebee set consists of 950 pieces and reflects Bumblebees smaller stature when compared to Optimus Prime (in contrast, his set had 1507 parts.) There are approximately 24 steps to transform in to Bumblebee, making it more complex than his Optimus Prime predecessor.

This model features an array of printed designs alongside the standard of sticker sheets. It's fun to note that the design has a number Easter Eggs to keep you interested throughout the build (including the premiere date of the original Transformers cartoon on the number plate and a reference to Goldbug!) We really like the addition of the accompanying Plaque, it's a fun enhancement and really helps the model to stand out when displayed. Eagle-eyed fans will note that many of the statistics are from the packaging of none other than the Generation 1 toy, another fun little Easter Egg included for fans of the original series.

For those interested in more facts about the iconic Autobot, look no further than the accompanying manual. It includes some basic information about Bumblebee, as well as, a snippet of background information from Lego design manager Sam Johnson.

“Autobots Roll Out!”

We love how the iconic Volkswagon Beetle transforms into the courageous Autobot. We have to say, there is quite a knack to transforming the vehicle and we would be tempted to use it more as a display piece than a toy to play with constantly. Despite this, the articulation allows you to pose Bumblebee in a variety of ways and he looks awesome in Autobot mode displayed next to his leader.

The Volkswagon Beetle may not be an entirely faithful build of the car, but the Transformers fan in all of us got a little giddy at the final build; we found him to be well proportioned and he looks great in both vehicle and robot mode. Overall we love this Lego Icons release and look forward to future Transformers collaborations (here is me personally hoping for a Decepticons addition to the collection at some point!)

Have you built any of the Transformers Lego releases yet? Feel free to let us know your thoughts on the builds below or on our socials @chaoscards - we love hearing from you!