The History of the Gas Forklift
The Clark Equipment Company made the very first gas powered forklift during the early part of the 20th century. Clark has led the industry in gas-powered forklifts ever since that time.
Beginning
Located within Buchanan, State of Michigan, the Clark Equipment Company was the manufacturer of the very first Tructractor during the year 1917. Workers fabricated 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 build more. The next year Clark sold eight Tructractors, and the year after that Clark started the Clark Tructractor Company within Buchanan, selling 75 of the machinery that year.
Duat
Clark made a gas-powered tow tractor during 1923. Named the "Duat," this three-wheeled equipment later developed into the modern gas-powered forklift.
Improved Models
During 1927 the Clarktor was created, a gas-powered tow tractor with four wheels that can draw up to 5,500 kilograms. In 1928 the Tructier model was built. 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 kind of forklifts need to be refueled either at on-site fueling stations or with gas canisters. Internal combustion forklifts cost less to purchase, but more to operate due to the cost of fuel. For loads over 6,800 kilograms, an internal combustion forklift is recommended.