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Over two decades. That's how long it has been since Renault Trucks introduced the Magnum, one of its most iconic trucks, and among those most valued by professional drivers. Its story started 80 years ago, when the diamond company threw a project into drive to develop a rugged, reliable tractor unit with a very livable interior. The result was introduced in 1990. The flat cabin floor and an interior height superior to the average height of its rivals (1.87 meters), made it stand out. At first, it was called the Renault AE 380.

The Magnum, which had a 380 hp engine, was honored with the International Truck of the Year Award en 1991. A year later, the name Magnum - which until then had identified the AE 380's equipment level, became the name of the model. Between 1996 and 1997 it was given a major overhaul, an comprehensive renovation, becoming the Renault Magnum Integral. In addition to aesthetic and cabin changes, the kinematic chain was improved and it could come with a Mack Truck V8 engine, delivering 500 to 560 hp.

With the turn of the century, the French brand introduced the third generation of Magnums, with a redesigned cabin and front. Several years later, in 2005, Renault Trucks again introduced certain improvements in one of its flagships, with a different and updated kinematic chain, and a new 440 to 480 hp DXi 12 engine. One year after that, it received the DXi 13 powertrain, 500 hp, adapted to meet the Euro IV and Euro V pollution control standards.

The special Magnum Vega series of 2007 was the forerunner to the Magnum Route 66, commemorating the first trip made by a European truck on Route 66 in the United States, in 2008. This was an important year in the history of the Magnum, as it switched to a cabin height of two meters, which increased the space for drivers and companions. In addition, Optifuel solutions were introduced to reduce fuel consumption. After more than two decades on the market, the Magnum is in great shape with 440, 480 and 520 hp engines, a modern look and a spacious, well-equipped cab. It's easy to see why it will remain at the head of the pack for at least another 20 years.