Diesel Forklifts Versus Electric Forklifts
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 operate. IC machines are best for use outdoors and are faster to refuel.
Electric Forklifts
Electric lifts produce no exhaust, which makes them the machine of choice for indoor applications where air quality is a problem. Electric forklifts are clean and quiet. They are 20 - 40 percent more expensive to buy compared to IC lifts, but the operating cost of electric models on a per hour basis is a lot lower. The disadvantage 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 used 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 might be a good idea to buy an IC unit that utilizes the same type of fuel. They can run on diesel, gas or propane. Diesel is the most economical. IC forklifts have the advantage of being cheaper to operate and easy to refuel; nonetheless, their operating cost on a per hour basis is higher. Most IC models cannot be used indoors.
Other Forklifts
Inside 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 huge tires for running on difficult surfaces.