DIESEL VS GAS VS ELECTRIC FORKLIFTS

With diesel, gas and electric forklift options available, it’s important to weigh up the pros and cons of each to ensure you get the best fit for your business. Whether you’re managing a busy warehouse, an outdoor yard or mixed-use site, your choice will impact efficiency, cost and sustainability.

Powered by a diesel internal combustion engine, these forklifts are known for their strength and durability.

• Power and performance: Diesel forklifts provide exceptional torque and lifting capacity, making them ideal for heavy duty applications and outdoor use.
• Longer Runtime: Unlike electric models that require charging, diesel forklifts can operate continuously with quick refuelling.
• Durability: Built to handle rugged environments, diesel forklifts excel in demanding conditions such as construction sites and outdoor storage yards.
• Easy maintenance and parts accessibility: Diesel engines are widely used and well understood, meaning parts and servicing expertise is readily available.

• Emissions: Diesel engines produce higher levels of CO2 and particulates, which are not suitable for indoor use or for businesses focused on sustainability.
• Noise Levels: Compared to gas and electric forklifts, diesel models are louder making them unsuitable for noise-sensitive areas.
• Operating Costs: Fuel costs and maintenance on diesel engines can be higher, particularly as emission regulations become stricter.

• Outdoor operations
• Heavy lifting and demanding applications
• Businesses needing long operating hours, without downtime for charging

• Versatile: Gas forklifts can be used both indoors and outdoors, offering flexibility for various work environments.
• Lower emissions: They produce fewer emissions than diesel models, making them more environmentally friendly.
• Quick refuelling: Like diesel, gas forklifts don’t require long charging times, allowing for continuous use with minimal downtime.
• Good power output: They offer a good balance between power and efficiency, suitable for various tasks.

• Fuel storage and availability: LPG Cylinders must be stored safely, and you must ensure you have a readily available supply, which can be a logistical challenge for some businesses.
• Higher fuel costs than electric: While gas is often cheaper than diesel, it can still be more expensive than running an electric forklift over time.
• Maintenance requirements: Gas forklifts require regular serving to ensure the fuel system and engine remains in good condition, they can in fact have the highest maintenance costs.

• Businesses needing both indoor and outdoor use
• Operations that require quick refuelling
• Those looking for lower emissions without switching to electric

• Zero emissions: Electric forklifts are the most environmentally friendly option, making them perfect for indoor warehouses and businesses focused on sustainability.
• Lower running costs: With fewer moving parts, electric forklifts have lower maintenance costs, and electricity if often cheaper than fuel.
• Quiet operation: Unlike diesel or gas, electric models run quietly, reducing workplace noise and improving operator comfort.
• Compact and manoeuvrable: Electric forklifts are often smaller in size, making them easier to navigate in tight warehouse spaces.

• Charging downtime: Batteries require charging, which means planning for downtime or investing in additional battery packs or opportunity charging for continuous operation.
• Higher initial cost: While running costs are lower, electric forklifts typically have a higher upfront cost.
• Limited outdoor use: Electric forklifts aren’t always suitable for rough terrain or wet conditions, unless specifically designed for outdoor use.

• Indoor warehouses and distribution centres
• Businesses aiming for lower long-term costs and sustainability
• Operations where noise reduction is a priority or to enable overnight use

• Indoor vs Outdoor use: If you primarily operate indoors, electric forklifts are the best choice due to their zero emissions. For outdoor or mixed-use, gas forklifts offer versatility, while diesel is the best for heavy-duty outdoor work.
• Usage hours and downtime: If you need continuous operation with minimal breaks, gas or diesel forklifts allow for quick refuelling. If your operation can accommodate charging times, electric forklifts offer cost and environmental benefits.
• Sustainability goals: Companies aiming to reduce their carbon footprint should consider electric forklifts. Some gas options also offer lower emissions compared to diesel.
• Cost considerations: While electric forklifts have a higher upfront cost, they tend to have lower maintenance and running costs. Diesel and gas forklifts require ongoing fuelling expenses and servicing.