The History of the Gas Forklift
The Clark Equipment Company manufactured the very first gas powered forklift in the early 20th century. Ever since that time, Clark has led the industry in gas-powered forklifts.
Beginning
Situated in Buchanan, State of Michigan, the Clark Equipment Company was the maker of the first Tructractor in the year 1917. Employees made the tractor to make it easier to move components in 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 started the Clark Tructractor Company within Buchanan, selling seventy five of the machinery that year.
Duat
In nineteen twenty three Clark manufactured a gas-powered tow tractor. Named 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 five thousand five hundred kilograms, the Clarktor was developed in nineteen twenty seven. In 1928 the Tructier model was built. It became the basis for a modern line of gas-powered forklifts.
Forklifts which have internal combustion engines can run utilizing liquid natural gas, liquid propane, diesel or gasoline. These type of forklifts must be refueled either with gas canisters or at on-site fueling stations. Internal combustion forklifts cost a lot less to buy, but a lot more to operate due to the fuel cost. For loads over 6,800 kilograms, an internal combustion forklift is recommended.