Diesel Forklifts Versus Electric Forklifts
Forklifts are powered one of two ways, either by electric motor or by internal combustion (IC) motor. Electric forklifts are suitable for use indoors and cost less to use. IC equipment are suitable for use outdoors and are quicker to refuel.
Electric Forklifts
For indoor applications, where air quality is a problem, the electric forklift is the suitable equipment you could utilize since it produces no exhaust. Electric forklifts are not noisy and clean. They are 20 - 40 percent more expensive to purchase compared to IC lifts, but the per-hour operating cost of electric models is less. The disadvantage is that batteries need 16 hours to charge and cool down, so the purchase of an extra set of batteries is suggested. Electric lifts are not limited for use indoors, but when used outdoors they should be utilized carefully.
Diesel Forklifts
Internal Combustion forklifts are for outdoor use, and their carrying capacity is higher than electric forklifts. If your fleet usually operates on one type of fuel, it might be a good idea to purchase an IC unit that utilizes the same kind of fuel. They can function on propane, diesel or gas. Diesel is the most economical. IC forklifts have the advantage of being cheaper to operate and easy to refuel; then again, their operating cost on a per hour basis is higher. Nearly all IC models cannot be used indoors.
Other Forklifts
Narrow-aisle electric forklifts are suitable for limited spaces within warehouses. They are designed to pick up loads without having to position the lift facing the stacks. Rough terrain diesel forklifts have big tires for running on difficult surfaces.