Electric Forklift Vs. Diesel Forklift
A forklift can be powered either by internal combustion (IC) motor or by an electric motor. Electric forklifts are best for indoor application and cost much less to operate. IC machinery are best for outdoor use and are quicker to refuel.
Electric Forklifts
For indoor use, where air quality is a concern, the electric forklift is the best machine you can use since it produces no exhaust. Electric forklifts are not noisy and clean. They are 20 - 40 percent more expensive to purchase than IC lifts, but the per-hour operating cost of electric models is a lot lower. The downside is that batteries require 16 hours to charge and cool down, so buying an extra set of batteries is suggested. Electric lifts are not limited for use indoors, but when used outdoors they should be used carefully.
Diesel Forklifts
Internal Combustion forklifts are for outdoor applications, and their carrying capacity is higher than electric forklifts. If your fleet normally operates on one kind of fuel, it may be a wise choice to buy an IC unit that utilizes the same type of fuel. They can function on diesel, gas or propane. Diesel is the most economical. IC forklifts have the advantage of being cheaper to operate and easy to refuel; then again, their operating cost on a per hour basis is higher. Most IC models cannot be utilized indoors.
Other Kinds of Forklifts
Narrow-aisle electric forklifts are recommended for limited 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.