The History of the Gas Forklift
The Clark Equipment Company made the first gas powered forklift during the early 20th century. Ever since that time, Clark has led the industry in gas-powered forklifts.
Beginning
In 1917, the Clark Equipment Company, situated within Buchanan, Michigan State, was the producer of the first Tructractor. Workers fabricated the tractor in order to make it easier to move components within the plant. When visitors came to the plant and saw the machine, they asked Clark to make more. The following year Clark sold eight Tructractors, and the year after that Clark began the Clark Tructractor Company in Buchanan, selling seventy five of the machines that year.
Duat
In the year 1923 Clark manufactured a gas-powered tow tractor. Called the "Duat," this three-wheeled machine later developed into the modern gas-powered forklift.
Improved Models
A gas-powered tow tractor with four wheels and could draw up to 5,500 kilograms, the Clarktor was created in the year 1927. In 1928 the Tructier model was manufactured. It became the basis for a modern line of gas-powered forklifts.
Forklifts that run on gasoline, diesel, liquid natural gas or liquid propane have internal combustion engines. These kind of forklifts have to be refueled either with gas canisters or at on-site fueling stations. Internal combustion forklifts cost a lot less to buy, but more to operate because of the cost of fuel. For loads more than 6,800 kilograms, an internal combustion forklift is recommended.