The History of the Gas Forklift
The Clark Equipment Company made the first gas powered forklift in the early part of the 20th century. Since that time, Clark has led the industry in gas-powered forklifts.
Beginning
Situated within Buchanan, State of Michigan, the Clark Equipment Company was the maker of the first Tructractor in the year 1917. Workers made the tractor to make it easier to move parts within the plant. When visitors came to the plant and saw the equipment, they asked Clark to manufacture more. The next year Clark sold eight Tructractors, and the year after that Clark started the Clark Tructractor Company within Buchanan, selling 75 of the machines that year.
Duat
Clark made a gas-powered tow tractor in the year 1923. Called the "Duat," this three-wheeled equipment later developed into the modern gas-powered forklift.
Improved Models
In 1927 the Clarktor was developed, a gas-powered tow tractor with four wheels which could draw up to 5,500 kilograms. During 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 kind of forklifts have to be refueled either at on-site fueling stations or with gas canisters. Internal combustion forklifts cost less to purchase, but more to operate because of the fuel cost. For loads over 6,800 kilograms, an internal combustion forklift is recommended.