The History of the Gas Forklift
The Clark Equipment Company manufactured the very first gas powered forklift in the early 20th century. Clark has led the industry in gas-powered forklifts since that time.
Beginning
During the year 1917, the Clark Equipment Company, situated within Buchanan, Michigan State, was the producer of the first Tructractor. Employees made the tractor to make it easier to transport components within the plant. When visitors came to the plant and saw the machine, they asked Clark to manufacture more. The next year Clark sold eight Tructractors, and the year after that Clark began the Clark Tructractor Company in Buchanan, selling 75 of the machinery that year.
Duat
During nineteen twenty three Clark manufactured a gas-powered tow tractor. Called the "Duat," this three-wheeled machinery later developed into the modern gas-powered forklift.
Improved Models
During the year 1927 the Clarktor was developed, a gas-powered tow tractor with four wheels which could draw up to 5,500 kilograms. In the year 1928 the Tructier model was built. It became the basis for a modern line of gas-powered forklifts.
Forklifts which have internal combustion engines could run using liquid natural gas, liquid propane, diesel or gasoline. These type of forklifts need to be refueled either at on-site fueling stations or with gas canisters. Internal combustion forklifts cost a lot less to purchase, but more to operate because of the fuel cost. For loads which are over 6,800 kilograms, an internal combustion forklift is recommended.