The History of the Gas Forklift
The Clark Equipment Company made the first gas powered forklift in the early 20th century. Since that time, Clark has led the industry in gas-powered forklifts.
Beginning
During 1917, the Clark Equipment Company, situated within Buchanan, Michigan State, was the manufacturer of the first Tructractor. Employees fabricated the tractor so as to make it easier to move parts in 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 started the Clark Tructractor Company in Buchanan, selling 75 of the machines that same year.
Duat
Clark manufactured a gas-powered tow tractor during the year 1923. Called the "Duat," this three-wheeled machinery later developed into the modern gas-powered forklift.
Improved Models
During the year 1927 the Clarktor was developed, a gas-powered tow tractor with four wheels which could draw up to 5,500 kilograms. In 1928 the Tructier model was manufactured. It became the foundation 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 need to be refueled either at on-site fueling stations or with gas canisters. Internal combustion forklifts cost less to buy, but much more to operate due to the fuel cost. For loads which are over 6,800 kilograms, an internal combustion forklift is recommended.