The History of the Gas Forklift
The Clark Equipment Company made the very first gas powered forklift in the early part of the 20th century. Clark has led the business in gas-powered forklifts ever since that time.
Beginning
During the year 1917, the Clark Equipment Company, located within Buchanan, Michigan State, was the manufacturer of the very first Tructractor. Workers made the tractor to make it easier to transport components in the plant. When visitors came to the plant and saw the machinery, they asked Clark to manufacture more. The next year Clark sold eight Tructractors, and the year after that Clark started the Clark Tructractor Company within Buchanan, selling seventy five of the machines that year.
Duat
During 1923 Clark manufactured a gas-powered tow tractor. Named the "Duat," this three-wheeled machinery later developed into the modern gas-powered forklift.
Improved Models
A gas-powered tow tractor with four wheels and can draw up to five thousand five hundred kilograms, the Clarktor was developed in nineteen twenty seven. In the year 1928 the Tructier model was manufactured. It became the foundation for a modern line of gas-powered forklifts.
Forklifts that function on diesel, gasoline, liquid propane or liquid natural gas have internal combustion engines. These type of forklifts need to be refueled either at on-site fueling stations or with gas canisters. Internal combustion forklifts cost a lot less to purchase, but more to operate due to the fuel cost. For loads more than 6,800 kilograms, an internal combustion forklift is recommended.