The History of the Gas Forklift
The Clark Equipment Company made the first gas powered forklift during the early part of the 20th century. Since that time, Clark has led the business in gas-powered forklifts.
Beginning
Situated within Buchanan, State of Michigan, the Clark Equipment Company was the producer of the first Tructractor during 1917. Employees made the tractor to make it easier to move components in the plant. When visitors came to the plant and saw the machinery, they asked Clark to build more. The following year Clark sold eight Tructractors, and the year after that Clark started the Clark Tructractor Company within Buchanan, selling 75 of the equipment that very same year.
Duat
During 1923 Clark made a gas-powered tow tractor. Referred to 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. During the year 1928 the Tructier model was manufactured. It became the basis 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 type of forklifts must be refueled either with gas canisters or at on-site fueling stations. Internal combustion forklifts cost much less to buy, but much more to operate because of the cost of fuel. For loads that are more than 6,800 kilograms, an internal combustion forklift is suggested.