The History of the Gas Forklift
The Clark Equipment Company made the first gas powered forklift in the early part of the 20th century. Since that time, Clark has led the industry in gas-powered forklifts.
Beginning
Located within Buchanan, State of Michigan, the Clark Equipment Company was the manufacturer of the very first Tructractor in 1917. Employees fabricated the tractor to make it easier to move components within the plant. When visitors came to the plant and saw the machinery, they asked Clark to build more. The next year Clark sold eight Tructractors, and the year after that Clark began the Clark Tructractor Company in Buchanan, selling 75 of the machines that year.
Duat
Clark manufactured a gas-powered tow tractor in the year 1923. Known 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 in 1927. In 1928 the Tructier model was manufactured. It became the foundation for a modern line of gas-powered forklifts.
Forklifts that have internal combustion engines could run using liquid natural gas, liquid propane, diesel or gasoline. These type of forklifts should be refueled either at on-site fueling stations or with gas canisters. Internal combustion forklifts cost less to purchase, but more to operate because of the fuel cost. For loads that are over 6,800 kilograms, an internal combustion forklift is recommended.