Electric Forklift Vs. Diesel Forklift
Forklifts are powered one of two ways, either by electric motor or by internal combustion (IC) motor. Electric forklifts are suitable for indoor use and cost less to utilize. IC machinery are suitable for use outdoors and are faster to refuel.
Electric Forklifts
For indoor applications, where air quality is a problem, the electric forklift is the best equipment you can use since it produces no exhaust. 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 lower. The downside is that batteries require 16 hours to charge and cool down, so the purchase of an extra set of batteries is suggested. Electric lifts are not limited for use indoors, but when utilized outdoors they must be used carefully.
Diesel Forklifts
Internal Combustion forklifts are for outdoor applications, and their carrying capacity is higher than electric forklifts. If your fleet usually runs on one type of fuel, it may be a good choice to buy an IC unit that utilizes the same type of fuel. They can run on diesel, gas or propane. Diesel is the least expensive. IC forklifts have the advantage of being easy to refuel and cheaper to operate; however, their per-hour cost to operate is higher. Most IC models cannot be used indoors.
Other Kinds of Forklifts
Within warehouses where there are limited spaces, the narrow aisle electric forklift is most suitable. They are designed 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.