The History of the Gas Forklift
In the early part of the 20th century, the Clark Equipment company made the very first gas powered forklift. Since that time, Clark has led the business in gas-powered forklifts.
Beginning
Located in Buchanan, Michigan State, the Clark Equipment Company was the manufacturer of the very first Tructractor in the year 1917. Employees made the tractor to make it easier to move components within the plant. When visitors came to the plant and saw the machine, they asked Clark to manufacture more. The next 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 nineteen twenty three. Called 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 could draw up to five thousand five hundred kilograms, the Clarktor was developed in 1927. In the year 1928 the Tructier model was built. It became the basis for a modern line of gas-powered forklifts.
Forklifts that run on diesel, gasoline, 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 much less to buy, but much more to operate due to the fuel cost. For loads which are more than 6,800 kilograms, an internal combustion forklift is recommended.