The History of the Gas Forklift
The Clark Equipment Company manufactured the first gas powered forklift in the early 20th century. Ever since that time, Clark has led the industry in gas-powered forklifts.
Beginning
Situated within Buchanan, Michigan State, the Clark Equipment Company was the producer of the very first Tructractor during the year 1917. Workers made the tractor to make it easier to transport parts in the plant. When visitors came to the plant and saw the machine, they asked Clark to build 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 very same year.
Duat
Clark made a gas-powered tow tractor during the year 1923. Referred to as 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 can draw up to 5,500 kilograms, the Clarktor was developed during nineteen twenty seven. During the year 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 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 less to purchase, but a lot more to operate due to the cost of fuel. For loads more than 6,800 kilograms, an internal combustion forklift is suggested.