Electric Forklift Vs. Diesel Forklift
A forklift can be powered either by an electric motor or by an internal combustion or IC motor. Electric forklifts are best for indoor use and cost less to use. IC machines are best for use outdoors and are faster to refuel.
Electric Forklifts
Electric lifts produce no exhaust, that makes them the machine of choice for indoor use where the quality of air is a concern. Electric forklifts are clean and quiet. They are 20 - 40 percent more expensive to purchase compared to IC lifts, but the operating cost of electric models on a per hour basis is much less. The disadvantage is that batteries require 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 must 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 usually operates on one type of fuel, it might be a wise idea to buy an IC unit which uses the same fuel. They can function on gas, propane or diesel. Diesel is the least expensive. IC forklifts have the advantage of being easy to refuel and cheaper to operate; nonetheless, their operating cost on a per hour basis is higher. Nearly all IC models cannot be used indoors.
Other Forklifts
Narrow-aisle electric forklifts are suitable for limited spaces inside warehouses. 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 hard surfaces.