The History of the Gas Forklift
The Clark Equipment Company manufactured 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 in Buchanan, State of Michigan, the Clark Equipment Company was the manufacturer of the very first Tructractor in the year 1917. Workers 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 make 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 equipment that year.
Duat
Clark manufactured a gas-powered tow tractor during the year 1923. Known as the "Duat," this three-wheeled equipment 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. During 1928 the Tructier model was built. It became the basis for a modern line of gas-powered forklifts.
Forklifts which function on gasoline, diesel, liquid natural gas or liquid propane have internal combustion engines. These type of forklifts have to be refueled either with gas canisters or at on-site fueling stations. Internal combustion forklifts cost less to purchase, but a lot more to operate because of the cost of fuel. For loads which are more than 6,800 kilograms, an internal combustion forklift is recommended.