I just thought of this this morning. Would there be royalty fees on the alt modes now as well?

Most of the Autobot cars are definitely identifiable as a specific type of car, eg Sideswipe is definitely a Lambourghini, Megatron is a Waltham, whereas now they have a tendency to use a generic 'sports car with lambourghini influences.' So back in the 80's I am sure that there may have been some flexibility in the licensing etc. wehreas now, Lambo would be all over it for using their IP.

That could add to the cost of the toys as well. Especially if they are having to fork out to so many different companies.