Diesel vs Electric - Don't slip up or get a nasty shock

Oh and don’t forget LPG or gas… This is a third option you probably should consider.

As with any buying decision there are tens, if not hundreds, of factors that can impact your decision to buy one product over another. It’s a difficult process that needs careful consideration and although things like demonstrations can point you in the right direction, having valuable information to review at the end of the day will be the factor that empowers you to make the right decision (and getting the best deal obviously!).

When it comes to purchasing a forklift truck, it is no different and there are many things to consider; lift height, weight of pallet, distance travelled across application, type of transmission and maybe even available space… see it isn’t so easy is it?

After we get past the facts, we then have to deal with industry stereotypes and preconceived ideas of what you ‘should’ and ‘shouldn’t’ do. One standout area that fits into this category when purchasing a forklift is power type (diesel/gas/electric)

Traditionally, diesel tends to be used for outdoor applications, gas can cover both indoor and outdoor and electric is primarily indoor/ warehouse options.

As with many stereotypes, there is an element of truth to it. However in this instance, the lines between application and forklift power source are being blurred. To help you understand what we mean, here are 5 statements that will make you think about your operation in a slightly different way.

Electric trucks can be used outside

Electric forklift trucks have evolved in the past 10 years. The vital electrics can now be made waterproof and can work in our beautifully wet British weather. Our latest Traigo 48 for example, is a 9% more efficient than the next best competitor in class and comes with the option of a deluxe cabin.

Sustainability

It’s important… and is high up the agenda for most organisations, including Toyota. The key thing to understand is selecting the right truck for your application is where you will really benefit. Each member of the Toyota Material Handling sales team is equipped with a fuel calculator, allowing you to work out where you can be more efficient and reduce your carbon footprint.

Your application

As we’ve already mentioned, the truck fits the application, not the other way around. You may not have space for a charging area so you may have to look at an LPG forklift or do long runs along a yard so you will probably need diesel. But if it’s not as black and white as that… you need to get some advice from an expert.

Cost

The dreaded word. Well, it’s simple really. Get advice, pick the correct truck and power source for your application and you will save money whilst increasing efficiency and improving safety.

Should you go forkless?

Forkless… no, that isn’t a typo. Tow tractors could actually remove forklifts from certain areas of your operation. Sound interesting read more here. When you are considering investing in a forklift, make sure you, first of all, book a free demo. Then you should organise a trial and make sure the truck suits your needs.

After that it’s simple, call our team on 0370 850 1409.