Diesel Forklifts Versus Electric Forklifts
Forklifts could function one of two ways, either by electric motor or by internal combustion (IC) motor. Electric forklifts are best for use indoors and cost less to use. IC equipment are best for outdoor use and are quicker to refuel.
Electric Forklifts
For indoor use, where air quality is a problem, the electric forklift is the best machinery you can utilize because it produces no exhaust. Electric forklifts are quiet and clean. They are 20 - 40 percent more expensive to buy compared to IC lifts, but the per-hour operating cost of electric models is less. The downside is that batteries need 16 hours to charge and cool down, so the purchase of an extra set of batteries is recommended. Electric lifts are not limited to indoor use, but when used outdoors they must be utilized cautiously.
Diesel Forklifts
Internal Combustion forklifts are for outdoor applications, and their carrying capacity is more than electric forklifts. If your fleet normally runs on one type of fuel, it may be a good choice to purchase an IC unit which uses the same fuel. They can function on gas, propane or diesel. Diesel is the least expensive. IC forklifts have the advantage of being easy to refuel and less expensive to operate; then again, their per-hour cost to operate is higher. Nearly all IC models cannot be utilized indoors.
Other Kinds of Forklifts
Inside warehouses where there are limited spaces, the narrow aisle electric forklift is most suitable. They are designed to pick up loads without having to position the lift facing the stacks. Rough terrain diesel forklifts have large tires for running on difficult surfaces.