The History of the Gas Forklift
The Clark Equipment Company manufactured the very first gas powered forklift in the early 20th century. Ever since that time, Clark has led the business in gas-powered forklifts.
Beginning
Situated in Buchanan, State of Michigan, the Clark Equipment Company was the manufacturer of the first Tructractor in the year 1917. Employees made the tractor so as to make it easier to transport components within the plant. When visitors came to the plant and saw the equipment, they asked Clark to manufacture 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
During the year 1923 Clark made a gas-powered tow tractor. Referred to as the "Duat," this three-wheeled machinery later developed into the modern gas-powered forklift.
Improved Models
In 1927 the Clarktor was developed, a gas-powered tow tractor with four wheels that could draw up to 5,500 kilograms. During the year 1928 the Tructier model was built. It became the basis for a modern line of gas-powered forklifts.
Forklifts that function on diesel, gasoline, liquid propane or liquid natural gas have internal combustion engines. These kind of forklifts must be refueled either with gas canisters or at on-site fueling stations. Internal combustion forklifts cost less to buy, but more to operate due to the cost of fuel. For loads which are over 6,800 kilograms, an internal combustion forklift is recommended.