Electric Forklift Vs. Diesel Forklift
A forklift can function either by an electric motor or by an internal combustion or IC motor. Electric forklifts are suitable for use indoors and cost much less to utilize. IC machines are best for outdoor application 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 - 40 percent more expensive to purchase than IC lifts, but the per-hour operating cost of electric models is much less. The disadvantage 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 for use indoors, but when used outdoors they must be used carefully.
Diesel Forklifts
Internal Combustion forklifts have a higher carrying capacity than electric forklifts and are generally used for outdoor applications. If your fleet generally runs on one kind of fuel, it may be a wise idea to buy an IC unit that utilizes the same fuel. They can run on propane, diesel or gas. Diesel is the least expensive. 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. Most IC models cannot be utilized indoors.
Other Types of 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 huge tires for running on difficult surfaces.