What is Brushless Motor

A brushless motor (BLDC) is a DC electric motor that uses electronic commutation instead of mechanical brushes and a commutator. An external ESC (electronic speed controller) switches the current through the windings to spin the rotor. Removing the brushes reduces friction, sparking, and wear, so brushless motors run faster and more efficiently, deliver more power for their size, and last longer with less maintenance. Because they need an ESC and typically LiPo batteries, they are popular for high-performance RC and LEGO conversions where stock brushed motors are too weak.

Common Brushless Motors & Brands for LEGO RC Conversion

Compiled from Eurobricks forum builds and seller pages · 2026-10-21

Brand / Model Type KV / Speed Voltage Max Current Notes & Use Case
Generic A2212 (hobby-grade) Outrunner brushless 1000 KV 2-3S (7.4-11.1V) 25-35A ESC Cheapest entry option, great for 1:28 cars
Surpass Hobby 2445 KK Brushless 3000 / 3600 / 5400 KV
(3600KV ≈ 50000rpm)		 2-3S (7.4-14.8V) 38A Popular for 1:16/1:18 cars and LEGO supercars (e.g., McLaren P1)
ZENE planetary-gearbox motor Brushless + metal planetary gearbox 3600 KV ≤13.2V 38A 500W max, 1/4 planetary reduction, designed for LEGO Technic
Turnigy Multistar 4225 In-wheel / outrunner brushless 610 KV — — In-wheel motor, fits LEGO 56mm wheels
LMX (Lego Motor eXtreme) Brushless + integrated ESC — — — DIY/open-source, L-motor housing with PF/PU connectors, plug-and-play
Surpass Hobby Rocket RC Cooling fan (not a drive motor) 20000 rpm — — Forced cooling to prevent motor overheating
Notes
  • Official LEGO motors (Power Functions / Powered Up) are brushed, so they are not listed above.
  • A2212 is a generic hobby part with no fixed brand; Surpass Hobby and ZENE are the most-cited brands among builders.
  • Specs come from forum builds and seller pages; always confirm voltage/current on the product page before buying.

How to install

Every product is different, so always check compatibility, mounting points, voltage, and required tools before you buy. Once you have the right kit, follow the manufacturer's instructions or manual for your specific model and parts ā€” this is the safest and most reliable way to install them correctly. As a general rule, for F1 cars you will need to partially disassemble the already-completed model so you can access the chassis, drivetrain, and suspension areas where the upgraded motor, ESC, and other parts must be fitted.
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- Fix the motor to LEGO liftarms using M2 or M3 screws; third-party mounts are drilled to match LEGO hole spacing.

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- Connect the motor shaft to the drivetrain with a 2L axle connector, or use metal universal joints, bearing adapters, and metal shafts (e.g., ZENE Bricks) for durability.

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- Many conversion motors include a built-in planetary gearbox with a LEGO-compatible output axle, so no adapter is needed. Mount the steering servo (e.g., GeekServo) using its built-in pin holes.

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- Reinforce the rear suspension and use custom wheel hubs with positive caster angle, because the motor and battery add weight and stress.

FAQS for High Performance

Open FAQS page to explore more information about high-performance motors, Remote choice, Upgrade order and other components. 
Can I put a brushless RC motor into a LEGO model?

Yes, but the hard part is mounting. Use a machined adapter plate to bolt the motor to liftarms and a shaft adapter to connect to a Technic axle, then add a brushless ESC and a 2S/3S Li-Po. Metal gears and a metal differential are recommended because plastic gears strip.

The Surpass Hobby 2445 3600kV (~50,000 rpm) with a brushless ESC is a common pick, e.g. for the 42172 McLaren P1, usually with a small cooling fan. For direct wheel drive, the Turnigy Multistar 4225-610Kv outrunner fits standard 56mm rims.

Plastic gears and axles can strip or melt at 500W-class power. Solutions are custom metal differentials and alloy gears (as in ZENE kits), metal shafts with aluminium universal joints, and bracing axles with bearings.

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