The History of the Gas Forklift
The Clark Equipment Company made the first gas powered forklift in the early part of the 20th century. Clark has led the business in gas-powered forklifts ever since that time.
Beginning
In 1917, the Clark Equipment Company, situated within Buchanan, Michigan State, was the maker of the first Tructractor. Workers made the tractor to make it easier to transport parts in 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 1923 Clark manufactured a gas-powered tow tractor. Named the "Duat," this three-wheeled equipment later developed into the modern gas-powered forklift.
Improved Models
In nineteen twenty seven the Clarktor was developed, a gas-powered tow tractor with four wheels that can draw up to 5,500 kilograms. During the year 1928 the Tructier model was built. It became the foundation for a modern line of gas-powered forklifts.
Forklifts that run on gasoline, diesel, liquid propane or liquid natural gas have internal combustion engines. These type of forklifts must be refueled either at on-site fueling stations or with gas canisters. Internal combustion forklifts cost much less to buy, but a lot more to operate due to the cost of fuel. For loads over 6,800 kilograms, an internal combustion forklift is recommended.