Grove Unveils New Range-Topping All-Terrain Crane at ConExpo 2026

Manitowoc is launching its strongest all-terrain crane to date and setting new benchmarks for the company's lifting performance and versatility.

The new GMK8700 expands the range of Grove cranes from 55 tons to 800 tons, broadening choices for crane owners and redefining what's possible in heavy lifting. The crane is backed by Manitowoc's customer support and global dealer network, delivering fast parts availability, expert technical support and comprehensive service.

The crane made its debut to the crowds at ConExpo-Con/AGG 2026, where visitors gathered to witness the biggest and most capable all-terrain crane ever offered by Grove. With an 800 ton capacity on an eight-axle carrier, the GMK8700 meets growing demand for heavy-lift solutions across infrastructure, industrial projects, energy applications and more.

"We are incredibly proud to introduce the GMK8700, a testament to the engineering and manufacturing excellence of our team in Wilhelmshaven, Germany," said Andreas Cremer, vice president, product management — mobile cranes of Manitowoc. "This landmark model underscores our commitment to delivering high-performance solutions that help customers achieve greater return on invested capital."

Designed for Job Sites

Manitowoc's Voice of the Customer (VOC) process was the foundation for the development of the GMK8700, ensuring it blends engineering processes 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 177 ft. boom and a 263 ft. boom. Both booms feature the common Megaform design with interchangeable telescopic sections, so owners can easily switch setups for a wide variety of projects.

Transportability is another major design priority based on VOC feedback, according to Grove. 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, efficient road travel and precise maneuverability.

Five axles are driven, and the carrier supports two axle groupings — one optimized for road travel and the other for jobsite mobility. Other transport advantages include the MEGATRAK suspension, a removable rear outrigger box and an adaptive electronic braking system, all of which contribute to easier, more flexible logistics.

Despite the GMK8700's size and technical advancements, it is designed with faster, easier customer support in mind, so owners can take advantage of Manitowoc's range of aftermarket services and technologies. Grove Connect is fully-integrated, enabling fault code visibility and condition monitoring. This helps service teams plan maintenance more effectively, reducing unplanned downtime and resolving issues faster.

Designed with serviceability in mind, the crane 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.

Lifting Power

In terms of lifting performance, the GMK8700 pushes new boundaries with exceptional reach, due to a luffing jib that extends up to 351 ft. The jib 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, according to Grove.

Like other high-capacity Grove cranes, the GMK8700 comes equipped with the self-rigging MegaWingLift capacity-enhancing system. It 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 crane offers up to 385,000 lbs. 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. VPC enables operators to adjust the counterweight position to boost lifting capacity without requiring additional counterweights.

Operators also will benefit from Manitowoc's CCS 2.0 crane control system, making its debut on the GMK8700. CCS 2.0 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 optimized setup guidance. The crane also includes dedicated operator displays for both the superstructure and carrier, enhancing situational awareness and overall efficiency.

For more information, visit manitowoc.com.