Liebherr MK 88-4.2E targets lower road axle loads
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Liebherr has unveiled the MK 88-4.2E mobile construction crane, the successor to its MK 88-4.1E. The four-axle crane adds a travel configuration with axle loads below 9.2 tonnes and a gross vehicle weight below 36.3 tonnes, alongside 10- and 12-tonne axle-load options. It can lift up to eight tonnes and handle 2,200kg at the 45-metre boom tip. Series deliveries are planned to begin in the second quarter of 2027.
New MK crane designed for wider road access
Liebherr has introduced the MK 88-4.2E under the slogan “Built for global roads.” The mobile construction crane is designed to offer more road travel options in markets with strict vehicle weight limits.
Alongside configurations with 10- and 12-tonne axle loads, the new four-axle crane can travel with axle loads below 9.2 tonnes and a gross vehicle weight below 36.3 tonnes. These options may help with approvals and road use in markets with corresponding limits.
The crane uses wider 445/75 R22.5 tyres mounted on aluminium rims. Liebherr says the tyres open access to additional markets, including Australia, Denmark and the United States. Series deliveries are planned from the second quarter of 2027.
Chassis and counterweight redesigned
Liebherr has retained much of the boom system from the MK 88-4.1E while redesigning the chassis and counterweight to achieve lower axle loads.
The counterweight is divided into removable sections, and the outrigger beams can also be removed. An optional self-ballasting system allows the crane to load and remove its counterweight without an auxiliary crane. Depending on the distance to the ballast transport vehicle, the crane installs the counterweight in two or three lifts. Ballast cylinders integrated into the chassis support the process, which is monitored from the crane.
A further option allows electro-hydraulic operation while the crane is supported and ballasted on site. The work can be carried out using site power or an external battery power pack, without producing CO₂ emissions during those operations.
Electric operation and flexible power supply
The MK 88-4.2E can operate electrically using site power or another external power source. Liebherr says this can reduce noise, which may be useful on night-time construction sites.
A 16-amp mains connection is standard, alongside 32- and 63-amp options. The 16-amp connection allows the crane to operate on sites with a lower available mains supply, at reduced speeds. Flexible energy management works with the crane’s electric drives to adapt operation to the available power.
The crane is compatible with Liebherr’s Liduro Power Port mobile energy storage system. Where an external power source is unavailable, an onboard diesel generator enables self-sufficient operation.
Lifting performance and manoeuvrability
The MK 88-4.2E has a maximum lifting capacity of eight tonnes and can lift 2,200kg at its maximum 45-metre boom radius. Its Load-Plus control system can automatically increase lifting capacity by up to 10 per cent.
The four-axle crane has a turning circle of 11.88 metres and independent rear-axle steering. Liebherr says these features support manoeuvrability on a range of sites, from urban construction projects to industrial work.
About Liebherr
Liebherr-Werk Ehingen GmbH develops and manufactures mobile and crawler cranes. Its mobile crane range spans two-axle, 35-tonne cranes through to heavy-duty models with capacities of up to 1,200 tonnes. The company also produces lattice-boom cranes on mobile and crawler chassis, with lifting capacities of up to 3,000 tonnes.
The Ehingen site employs around 5,000 people and is supported by Liebherr’s global service network. Liebherr-Werk Ehingen is part of the family-run Liebherr Group, which operates across construction equipment and other technology and product sectors.
View website: https://www.liebherr.com/
Frequently asked questions
What is the maximum capacity of the Liebherr MK 88-4.2E?
The MK 88-4.2E has a maximum lifting capacity of eight tonnes. It can lift 2,200kg at its maximum boom radius of 45 metres.
What are the MK 88-4.2E’s road travel options?
The crane has operating modes with axle loads of 12 and 10 tonnes, as well as an option with axle loads below 9.2 tonnes and a gross vehicle weight below 36.3 tonnes.
Can the MK 88-4.2E install its own counterweight?
Yes. Self-ballasting is available as an option, allowing the crane to fit and remove its counterweight without an auxiliary crane.
When are series deliveries expected to begin?
Liebherr plans to begin series deliveries in the second quarter of 2027.
