LEGO Power Functions, introduced in 2007, are motorized components used primarily in LEGO Technic sets to add movement and functionality. The 8293 Power Functions Motor Set, released in 2008, is a key accessory set in this system, providing essential elements like a medium motor, battery box, switch, and lights. It allows builders to motorize existing Technic sets or create custom motorized models. Notable Technic sets that feature Power Functions include the "Motorized Excavator" (8043) from 2010, which uses multiple motors for operating its digging arm and tracks, and the "Bucket Wheel Excavator" (42055) from 2016, one of the largest Technic sets, featuring motorized conveyor belts and a rotating bucket wheel. The Power Functions system enhances the playability and realism of Technic models, enabling the creation of working machinery and vehicles.
2008 LEGO Sets
In 2008, LEGO celebrated the 30th Anniversary of the Minifigure. It was also the 50th Anniversary of the LEGO Brick. This year also marked the release of LEGO Cuusoo which eventually paved the way for the highly collectable LEGO Ideas theme. In 2008, LEGO and LucasFilm released the Indiana Jones theme, making it the second LucasFilm theme to be released along with Star Wars. Notable set's in 2008 LEGO released the now infamous Green Grocer (10185-1) which started the investments of other collectable modular building for decades to come.