Diesel Forklifts Vs. Electric Forklifts
Forklifts could function one of two ways, either by internal combustion (IC) motor or by electric motor. Electric forklifts are best for indoor application and cost less to utilize. IC machinery are best for outdoor use and are quicker to refuel.
Electric Forklifts
For indoor use, where the quality of air is a concern, the electric forklift is the best machinery you can use since it produces no exhaust. Electric forklifts are not noisy and clean. They are 20% to 40% more expensive to buy compared to IC lifts, but the per-hour operating cost of electric models is lower. The disadvantage 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 to indoor use, but when utilized outdoors they must be used carefully.
Diesel Forklifts
Internal Combustion forklifts are for outdoor use, and their carrying capacity is more than electric forklifts. If your fleet normally operates on one kind of fuel, it may be a good choice to purchase an IC unit which uses the same type of fuel. They could run on propane, diesel or gas. Diesel is the most economical. IC forklifts have the advantage of being easy to refuel and less expensive to operate; nonetheless, their operating cost on a per hour basis is higher. Most IC models cannot be utilized indoors.
Other Forklifts
Narrow-aisle electric forklifts are recommended for limited spaces within warehouses. They are constructed 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.