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 use indoors and cost less to utilize. IC machines are best for outdoor use and are quicker to refuel.
Electric Forklifts
For indoor applications, where the quality of air is a problem, the electric forklift is the best machine you can utilize because it produces no exhaust. Electric forklifts are clean and are not noisy. They are 20% to 40% more expensive to purchase than IC lifts, but the per-hour operating cost of electric models is lower. The disadvantage is that batteries require 16 hours to charge and cool down, so buying an extra set of batteries is recommended. Electric lifts are not limited to indoor application, but when utilized outdoors they must be utilized cautiously.
Diesel Forklifts
Internal Combustion forklifts are for outdoor applications, and their carrying capacity is more than electric forklifts. If your fleet normally runs on one kind of fuel, it may be a wise choice to purchase an IC unit which utilizes the same kind 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 cheaper to operate; nevertheless, their per-hour cost to operate is higher. The majority of IC models cannot be utilized indoors.
Other Forklifts
In warehouses where there are tight spaces, the narrow aisle electric forklift is most suitable. They are designed to pick up loads without having to face the lift towards the stacks. Rough terrain diesel forklifts have large tires for running on difficult surfaces.