Diesel Forklifts vs. Electric Forklifts vs. Gas Forklifts: Advantages and Disadvantages
Diesel, Electric or gas forklift
When choosing a forklift, you have to ensure that you’re getting the correct vehicle for the job. There are differences between diesel forklifts, gas forklifts, and electric forklifts that have to be kept in mind. Here, we’re going to look at what you need to know about each of them, their advantages, and disadvantages, so you can get a better idea of which might suit your needs better.
WHAT IS A DIESEL FORKLIFT?
Diesel forklift trucks are larger truckers that are typically designed to better handle rougher terrain and, as such, are built more for outdoor use and use in all manner of weather conditions. Their primary feature is the fuel tank, usually big enough to allow them to run for a long time without interruption.
DIESEL FORKLIFTS: ADVANTAGES
- Suited for outdoor use as it’s not much affected by weather
- Tank is easy to fill, so less downtime
- Can be parked anywhere
- Fewer maintenance issues than others
DIESEL FORKLIFTS: DISADVANTAGES
- Higher noise and fume emissions
- Tend to be larger and require more space to store
- Higher fuel costs
- Bulky fuel tanks
WHAT IS A GASFORKLIFT?
Also known as liquid petroleum gas (LPG ) forklifts, a gas forklift runs off a mixture of propane, butane, and other chemicals, with fuel tanks attached directly to it, and detached when empty to be refilled or replaced. They’re well suited to outdoor use, too, but can be a little more versatile than a diesel forklift, if not quite as powerful or as long-lasting before needing a refuel.
GAS FORKLIFTS: ADVANTAGES
- Burns cleaner than petrol and other alternatives
- Works well outdoors
- Is quieter and safer than diesel forklifts
- Relatively easy to maintain
- Easy to refuel
GAS FORKLIFTS: DISADVANTAGES
- Consumes fuel more quickly than a diesel forklift
- Not as powerful as a diesel-powered forklift
- Pressurised gas fuel containers need extra safety precautions to handle and store safely
WHAT IS AN ELECTRIC FORKLIFT?
Powered by a rechargeable battery, the electric forklift is typically a smaller vehicle, which has seen it largely used in indoor spaces such as warehouses and retail spaces. As they are smaller, easier to store, and easier to maneuver, they tend to be the safe option overall and can navigate tight spaces easily. They’re also easier to control and learn to drive thanks to a lack of clutch.
ELECTRIC FORKLIFTS: ADVANTAGES
- Lower running costs over time
- Better for smaller environments
- Environmentally friendly
- Take up less space
- Suited for indoor use
ELECTRIC FORKLIFTS: DISADVANTAGES
- Not as suited to outdoor use
- Relatively limited power due to battery size
- Higher initial costs
- More downtime as battery has to recharge
Here at Atlas Forklift, we sell new and used diesel, electric and gas forklifts. We have a wide range of new forklifts from all the leading manufacturers, so you're sure to find the perfect one for your business. Take a look below to see our range of forklifts.
DIESEL, GAS AND ELECTRIC FORKLIFT TRUCKS FROM ATLASFORKLIFT:
DIESEL FORKLIFTS
GAS FORKLIFTS
ELECTRIC FORKLIFTS
BUY USED FORKLIFTS WEST MIDLANDS
We also have a wide range of used forklifts for sale, perfect for those on a budget or who only require a forklift for occasional use. All of our used forklifts are fully serviced and come with a warranty, so you can be sure they'll be up and running when you need them.
BUY NEW FORKLIFTS WEST MIDLANDS
If you're looking for a brand-new forklift, we can help you find the perfect model for your needs. We have a wide range of new forklifts from all the leading manufacturers, so you're sure to find the perfect one for your business. All our new forklifts come with a full warranty, and our team of experts is on hand to offer advice and support.