The History of the Gas Forklift
The Clark Equipment Company manufactured the first gas powered forklift during the early 20th century. Since that time, Clark has led the business in gas-powered forklifts.
Beginning
In the year 1917, the Clark Equipment Company, situated in Buchanan, Michigan, was the manufacturer of the very first Tructractor. Employees made the tractor in order to make it easier to move components in the plant. When visitors came to the plant and saw the machinery, they asked Clark to build more. The following year Clark sold eight Tructractors, and the year after that Clark started the Clark Tructractor Company within Buchanan, selling seventy five of the machinery that year.
Duat
Clark manufactured a gas-powered tow tractor during 1923. Called the "Duat," this three-wheeled machine later developed into the modern gas-powered forklift.
Improved Models
In the year 1927 the Clarktor was developed, a gas-powered tow tractor with four wheels that could draw up to 5,500 kilograms. In the year 1928 the Tructier model was manufactured. It became the basis for a modern line of gas-powered forklifts.
Forklifts that run on diesel, gasoline, liquid natural gas or liquid propane have internal combustion engines. These type of forklifts need to be refueled either at on-site fueling stations or with gas canisters. Internal combustion forklifts cost less to buy, but more to operate due to the cost of fuel. For loads more than 6,800 kilograms, an internal combustion forklift is recommended.