Diesel Forklifts Vs. Electric Forklifts
Forklifts are powered 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 utilize. IC machines are suitable for outdoor application and are quicker to refuel.
Electric Forklifts
Electric lifts produce no exhaust, that makes them the equipment of choice for indoor use where the quality of air is a problem. Electric forklifts are clean and quiet. They are 20% to 40% more expensive to buy compared to IC lifts, but the per-hour operating cost of electric models is a lot lower. The downside is that batteries need 16 hours to charge and cool down, so purchasing an extra set of batteries is recommended. Electric lifts are not limited for use indoors, but when used outdoors they should be used carefully.
Diesel Forklifts
Internal Combustion forklifts have a higher carrying capacity compared to electric forklifts and are commonly used for outdoor applications. If your fleet normally runs on one type of fuel, it may be a good choice to purchase an IC unit that uses 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; nonetheless, their per-hour cost to operate is higher. Most IC models cannot be utilized indoors.
Other Forklifts
In 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.