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