The History of the Gas Forklift
The Clark Equipment Company manufactured 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
During 1917, the Clark Equipment Company, located in Buchanan, Michigan State, was the maker of the very first Tructractor. Employees 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 began the Clark Tructractor Company within Buchanan, selling 75 of the machines that same year.
Duat
During the year 1923 Clark manufactured 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 developed in 1927. In the year 1928 the Tructier model was built. It became the basis for a modern line of gas-powered forklifts.
Forklifts which function on diesel, gasoline, liquid natural gas or liquid propane have internal combustion engines. These type of forklifts have to be refueled either with gas canisters or at on-site fueling stations. Internal combustion forklifts cost much less to purchase, but more to operate because of the fuel cost. For loads that are over 6,800 kilograms, an internal combustion forklift is suggested.