Diesel Forklifts Vs. Electric Forklifts
Forklifts are powered one of two ways, either by internal combustion (IC) motor or by electric motor. Electric forklifts are best for indoor application 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, that makes them the machinery of choice for indoor applications where air quality is a problem. Electric forklifts are quiet and clean. They are 20 - 40 percent more expensive to buy than IC lifts, but the operating cost of electric models on a per hour basis is a lot 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 for use indoors, but when used outdoors they should be utilized carefully.
Diesel Forklifts
Internal Combustion forklifts are for outdoor applications, and their carrying capacity is higher than electric forklifts. If your fleet usually operates on one type of fuel, it may be a good choice to purchase an IC unit which utilizes 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 less expensive to operate and easy to refuel; however, their operating cost on a per hour basis is higher. The majority of IC models cannot be utilized indoors.
Other 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 huge tires for running on difficult surfaces.