German Crane Rental Company Strengthens Fleet with New Grove GMK4080L

SMS Autokrane adds powerful four-axle all-terrain crane to its lineup, putting it to work at Manitowoc's Wilhelmshaven factory.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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The German crane rental company SMS Autokrane has expanded its fleet with the addition of a new Grove GMK4080L four-axle all-terrain crane. The crane was delivered to the Manitowoc factory in Wilhelmshaven, Germany, where it was immediately put to work replacing components for the on-site printing presses that produce Grove brochures, operating manuals, and other materials.

Why it matters

The acquisition of the new Grove GMK4080L crane strengthens SMS Autokrane's capabilities, allowing the company to tackle a wider range of projects, particularly in confined urban or industrial settings where the crane's compact size, powerful performance, and flexible outrigger positioning provide key advantages.

The details

The GMK4080L features a maximum lift capacity of 80 tons, a 60-meter MEGAFORM main boom, and a compact vehicle width of just 2.55 meters. It is powered by a 300 kW Mercedes-Benz OM470LA engine, ensuring reliable performance on the road and during lifting operations. The crane is also equipped with Manitowoc's MAXbase system, which allows for asymmetric outrigger positioning, increasing lift capacity across various working setups and providing operators greater flexibility when space is limited.

  • The new Grove GMK4080L crane was delivered to the Manitowoc factory in Wilhelmshaven, Germany, in January 2026.
  • The crane was immediately put to work at the factory, replacing components for the on-site printing presses.

The players

SMS Autokrane

A German crane rental company based in Michelstadt that has expanded its fleet with the addition of the new Grove GMK4080L crane.

Manitowoc

The American company that manufactures the Grove brand of cranes, including the GMK4080L model acquired by SMS Autokrane.

Grove GMK4080L

A four-axle all-terrain crane with a maximum lift capacity of 80 tons, a 60-meter main boom, and a compact vehicle width of 2.55 meters.

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The takeaway

The addition of the Grove GMK4080L crane to SMS Autokrane's fleet demonstrates the company's commitment to expanding its capabilities and meeting the demands of the German crane rental market, particularly in urban and industrial settings where the crane's compact size, power, and flexible outrigger positioning provide a competitive advantage.