Liebherr has launched the MK 88-4.2E, a new mobile construction crane and successor to the MK 88-4.1E. In addition to operating modes with axle loads of 12 and 10 t, the new model offers the option of travelling on public roads with an axle load of less than 9.2 t and a gross vehicle weight below 36.3 t. This may facilitate approval and road use in markets with corresponding weight limits. Series delivery is planned to begin in the second quarter of 2027.
While the boom system has been largely carried over from the MK 88-4.1E, Liebherr has redesigned the crane chassis and counterweight to achieve lower axle loads. The counterweight is divided into several removable sections, and the outrigger beams can also be easily removed.
Self-ballasting is available as an option: the counterweight can be installed quickly and easily without an auxiliary crane. A robust system, monitored from the crane, helps ensure safe and reliable operations. Depending on the distance to the ballast transport vehicle, the crane lifts the counterweight onto the chassis in two or three stages. To enable the entire ballast to be fitted and removed, the ballast cylinders are integrated into the chassis. This solution is new to the MK crane range.
A new option makes it possible to deploy the crane electro-hydraulically while it is being supported and ballasted on site. Using on-site electricity or an external battery power pack, these tasks can be carried out locally without producing any CO2 emissions.
Besides the standard 32 A and 63 A options, a 16 A mains connection is now included as standard. The benefit is that the new MK 88-4.2E can also operate on mains power at construction sites with a low mains voltage, albeit at reduced speeds. Thanks to intelligent and flexible energy management, combined with fully electric drives, the crane can quickly adapt to any given situation.
The new MK 88-4.2E has retained components and technology from its predecessor. It combines high maximum load capacities of up to 8 t with excellent manoeuvrability. Featuring a turning circle of just 11.88 m and independent rear-axle steering, this four-axle vehicle is suitable for a wide range of applications, from inner-city construction sites to industrial projects. With a maximum boom radius of 45 m, the crane can still lift 2,200 kg at its tip. The intelligent Load-Plus control system allows automatic increases in lifting capacity of up to 10%.
The Liebherr MK cranes’ hybrid power concept enables fully electric operation using either site power or another external power source. This means that the machine runs quietly, which can be an advantage for projects taking place at night. The MK cranes are compatible with Liebherr’s Liduro Power Port (LPO), a mobile energy storage system that supplies power to construction sites. If an external power source is not available, an efficient diesel generator ensures self-sufficient operation.
