Diesel Forklifts Versus Electric Forklifts
Forklifts could function one of two ways, either by electric motor or by internal combustion (IC) motor. Electric forklifts are suitable for indoor application and cost a lot less to use. IC equipment are best for outdoor use and are faster to refuel.
Electric Forklifts
For indoor applications, where the quality of air is a concern, the electric forklift is the best equipment you could 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 per-hour operating cost of electric models is much lower. The disadvantage is that batteries need 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 used outdoors they must be used carefully.
Diesel Forklifts
Internal Combustion forklifts are for outdoor use, and their carrying capacity is more than electric forklifts. If your fleet normally operates on one type of fuel, it might be a good choice to purchase an IC unit that uses the same kind of fuel. They can function on propane, diesel or gas. Diesel is the most economical. IC forklifts have the advantage of being easy to refuel and less expensive to operate; nevertheless, their operating cost on a per hour basis is higher. Most IC models cannot be utilized indoors.
Other Forklifts
Inside warehouses where there are limited spaces, the narrow aisle electric forklift is most suitable. They are constructed to pick up loads without having to face the lift towards the stacks. Rough terrain diesel forklifts have big tires for running on hard surfaces.