Diesel Forklifts Versus Electric Forklifts
Forklifts are powered one of two ways, either by internal combustion (IC) motor or by electric motor. Electric forklifts are suitable for use indoors and cost less to use. IC equipment are best for outdoor use and are faster to refuel.
Electric Forklifts
Electric lifts produce no exhaust, that makes them the equipment of choice for indoor applications where the quality of air is a problem. Electric forklifts are clean and quiet. They are 20 - 40 percent more expensive to purchase than IC lifts, but the operating cost of electric models on a per hour basis is much lower. The disadvantage is that batteries require 16 hours to charge and cool down, so purchasing an extra set of batteries is recommended. Electric lifts are not limited for use indoors, but when used outdoors they should 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 may be a wise idea to buy an IC unit that utilizes the same fuel. They can run on diesel, gas or propane. Diesel is the least expensive. IC forklifts have the advantage of being cheaper to operate and easy to refuel; however, their per-hour cost to operate is higher. Most IC models cannot be used indoors.
Other Forklifts
Within 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 huge tires for running on hard surfaces.