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 indoor use and cost much less to operate. IC machinery are suitable for outdoor use and are faster to refuel.
Electric Forklifts
Electric lifts produce no exhaust, which makes them the machine of choice for indoor use where the quality of air is a problem. Electric forklifts are clean and quiet. They are 20 - 40 percent more expensive to buy than IC lifts, but the per-hour operating cost of electric models is much less. The disadvantage is that batteries need 16 hours to charge and cool down, so purchasing an extra set of batteries is suggested. Electric lifts are not limited for use indoors, but when utilized outdoors they must be used cautiously.
Diesel Forklifts
Internal Combustion forklifts have a higher carrying capacity than electric forklifts and are commonly used for outdoor applications. If your fleet normally runs on one kind of fuel, it might be a wise idea to purchase an IC unit that utilizes the same fuel. They could 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 per-hour cost to operate is higher. Most IC models cannot be used indoors.
Other Kinds of Forklifts
Narrow-aisle electric forklifts are suitable for tight spaces within warehouses. They are constructed to pick up loads without having to face the lift towards the stacks. Rough terrain diesel forklifts have large tires for running on difficult surfaces.