Electric Forklift Vs. Diesel Forklift
Forklifts can function 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 use. IC equipment are best for use outdoors and are quicker to refuel.
Electric Forklifts
For indoor use, where air quality is a concern, the electric forklift is the best machine you could use as it produces no exhaust. Electric forklifts are clean and are not noisy. They are 20 - 40 percent more expensive to purchase compared to IC lifts, but the per-hour operating cost of electric models is much lower. The disadvantage is that batteries need 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 utilized outdoors they must be utilized cautiously.
Diesel Forklifts
Internal Combustion forklifts are for outdoor applications, and their carrying capacity is more than electric forklifts. If your fleet generally runs on one type of fuel, it may be a wise idea to purchase an IC unit which utilizes the same kind of fuel. They can run on propane, diesel or gas. Diesel is the most economical. IC forklifts have the advantage of being cheaper to operate and easy to refuel; then again, their operating cost on a per hour basis is higher. Most IC models cannot be utilized 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 huge tires for running on difficult surfaces.