Manitowoc has launched its strongest all-terrain crane, the GMK8700, expanding the Grove range from 50 t to 700 t. Built with an eight-axle carrier, this new 700 t-capacity crane meets growing demand for heavy-lift solutions across infrastructure, industrial, energy and other applications.
“We are incredibly proud to introduce the GMK8700, a testament to the engineering and manufacturing excellence of our team in Wilhelmshaven, Germany. This landmark model underscores our commitment to delivering high-performance solutions that help customers achieve greater return on invested capital,” said Andreas Cremer, vice president product management mobile cranes at Manitowoc.
Designed for the jobsite
Manitowoc’s Voice of the Customer (VOC) process was the foundation for the development of the GMK8700, ensuring it blends advanced engineering methods with real-world insights to address the needs of customers worldwide. Product versatility and on-site flexibility are major focuses, evidenced by two boom options: a 54 m and an 80 m version. Both feature the common Megaform design with interchangeable telescopic sections, so owners can switch setups for a wide variety of projects.
Transportability is another highlight. Depending on local regulations, the GMK8700 can travel with the boom carried over the front or mounted on a dolly behind the crane. The new carrier incorporates Manitowoc’s MegaDrive system for smooth road travel and precise manoeuvrability.
Five axles are driven, and the carrier supports two axle groupings – one optimised for road travel and the other for jobsite mobility. Further transport benefits include the Megatrak suspension, a removable rear outrigger box and an adaptive electronic braking system, all of which contribute to simpler and more flexible logistics.
Grove Connect is available on the GMK8700, enabling fault code visibility and condition monitoring. This helps service teams plan maintenance more effectively, reducing unplanned downtime and resolving issues faster. The crane also groups key service points for easier access and quicker daily checks as well as routine maintenance. Parts commonality with other current generation Grove all-terrain cranes simplifies parts inventory and technician training for fleet owners.
Long lifting reach
The GMK8700’s luffing jib can extend up to 107 m. It is quick and efficient to assemble, featuring a single back mast and optional boom extensions that enable customers to easily adjust the total system length for maximum flexibility.
The self-rigging MegaWingLift capacity-enhancing system can be installed without the need for an auxiliary crane, significantly reducing setup time – an important advantage on remote sites or in space-restricted environments. The GMK8700 offers up to 175 t of counterweight, comprised of slabs interchangeable with those of the GMK6400, GMK6400-1 and GMK6450-1 models.
For the first time on a Grove model, the counterweight incorporates Manitowoc’s Variable Position Counterweight (VPC) technology. This allows operators to adjust the counterweight position to boost lifting capacity without requiring additional counterweights.
Operators also benefit from Manitowoc’s CCS 2.0 crane control system, making its debut on the GMK8700. The system integrates with the on-board Grove Connect telematics platform and supports servicing through improved diagnostics, clearer information and more intuitive troubleshooting, so technicians can carry out service work efficiently. It also integrates seamlessly with MAXbase 2.0, the updated variable outrigger positioning system. Together, they deliver real-time lift capacity calculations, intuitive touchscreen operation and optimised setup guidance. In addition, the crane includes dedicated operator displays for both the superstructure and carrier, enhancing situational awareness and machine performance
