Forklift Fuel Types 3/7

What are the available forklift fuel types?

What applications are they suited for?

Electric

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Electric forklifts are powered by electricity rather than the traditional gas or diesel options. Providing a quiet, reliable and environmentally friendly way to operate your forklift, they’re often smaller and more compact than other types, which makes them easier to manoeuvre around tight spaces.

How are electric forklifts powered?

Electric forklifts are powered by electric motors that come with either lead-acid or lithium-ion batteries. These batteries are rechargeable and are a much cleaner way to power the machines compared to internal combustion engines.

What are electric forklifts best for?

Electric forklifts are suitable for a wide range of environments but are particularly useful for indoor settings where quiet operation and good air quality are important. This makes them perfect for warehouses, distribution centres and manufacturing facilities.

Pros and cons of electric forklifts

Pros
  • Low maintenance
  • Lower operating costs
  • Great manoeuvrability
  • Environmentally-friendly
Cons
  • Can’t be used while the battery is charging
  • Can’t be exposed to wet weather for too long

LPG / Gas

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Gas-powered forklifts operate by using liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and are suitable for both outdoor and indoor use. Extremely versatile, they’re perfectly balanced and offer excellent performance.

How are LPG forklifts powered?

Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) is a type of gas that is used to power these forklift types. This provides them with strong engines that offer great power and performance, and it’s also a more environmentally friendly choice compared to traditional diesel models.

What are LPG / gas forklifts best for?

LPG forklifts are ideal for a range of indoor and outdoor environments, making them a flexible choice that is suitable for all types of operations. There is no limit on the type of jobs these machines can be used for.

Pros and cons of LPG / Gas forklifts

Pros
  • Perfect for indoor and outdoor use
  • Extremely versatile
  • Fast refuelling
  • More environmentally friendly than diesel
Cons
  • Slightly higher fuel and running costs
  • Risk of fire is higher if not stored correctly

Diesel

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Diesel forklifts are one of the most traditional forklift types, offering strong performance, excellent reliability and a machine that is perfect for heavy-duty operations.

How are diesel forklifts powered?

Diesel forklifts are powered by a diesel engine, which guarantees great performance and long run times. This also means the machine can be used for extended periods.

What are diesel forklifts best used for?

Due to their strength and high performance, diesel forklifts are perfect for outdoor environments, industrial settings and heavy-duty jobs.

Pros and cons of diesel forklifts

Pros
  • Able to carry heavy loads
  • Long-lasting reliability
  • Extended run times
  • Easy to fuel
Cons
  • Diesel machines are very noisy
  • The fuel can be expensive
  • It is the least environmentally-friendly option

Call our friendly team for more information on 0808 164 7953