Diesel Forklifts Versus Electric Forklifts
Forklifts can function one of two ways, either by internal combustion (IC) motor or by electric motor. Electric forklifts are suitable for use indoors and cost much less to use. IC machines are best for outdoor use and are faster to refuel.
Electric Forklifts
For indoor use, where the quality of air is a problem, the electric forklift is the suitable equipment you can use because it produces no exhaust. Electric forklifts are quiet 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 much 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 utilized outdoors they should be utilized cautiously.
Diesel Forklifts
Internal Combustion forklifts have a higher carrying capacity than electric forklifts and are generally used for outdoor applications. If your fleet normally operates on one kind of fuel, it may be a good idea to buy an IC unit which utilizes the same kind of fuel. They could function on diesel, gas or propane. Diesel is the least expensive. IC forklifts have the advantage of being easy to refuel and less expensive to operate; then again, their per-hour cost to operate is higher. The majority of IC models cannot be used indoors.
Other Types of Forklifts
Narrow-aisle electric forklifts are recommended for tight spaces in warehouses. They are constructed to pick up loads without having to position the lift facing the stacks. Rough terrain diesel forklifts have large tires for running on hard surfaces.