Kramer KL558T loader © Jonathan Page

A telescopic option has been added to Kramer’s quirky four-wheel-steer rigid shovel models.

The KL55.8T joins the existing KL60.8 and the KL70.8 versions and improves maximum lift height to 5.4m – up from just 3.7m on the 60.8.

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However, the new setup involves significantly more metal, with a full 1.2t added to the operating weight of the new machine. That has seen payload tumble from 4.1t to 3.5t.

The rest of the machine remains largely the same, with the 4.1-litre Deutz motor and Ecospeed transmission still in place. Turning circle is around the 7.7m mark.