Diesel Forklifts Vs. Electric Forklifts
Forklifts are powered one of two ways, either by internal combustion (IC) motor or by electric motor. Electric forklifts are best for indoor application and cost much less to utilize. IC machines are best for use outdoors and are quicker to refuel.
Electric Forklifts
Electric lifts produce no exhaust, that makes them the machinery of choice for indoor use where air quality is a concern. Electric forklifts are clean and are not noisy. They are 20% to 40% more expensive to buy 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 recommended. Electric lifts are not limited to indoor use, but when used outdoors they should be utilized carefully.
Diesel Forklifts
Internal Combustion forklifts have a higher carrying capacity compared to electric forklifts and are commonly used for outdoor applications. If your fleet normally runs on one kind of fuel, it might be a wise idea to purchase an IC unit that uses the same fuel. They can run on diesel, gas or propane. Diesel is the most economical. IC forklifts have the advantage of being less expensive to operate and easy to refuel; then again, their per-hour cost to operate is higher. The majority of IC models cannot be used indoors.
Other Forklifts
Narrow-aisle electric forklifts are recommended for tight spaces in warehouses. They are designed to pick up loads without having to face the lift towards the stacks. Rough terrain diesel forklifts have big tires for running on difficult surfaces.