Why You Should Consider Choosing An LPG Forklift Truck Vs. An Electric Forklift

When you’re choosing a forklift truck for your business, there’s one big decision that you have to make – LPG vs electric forklift truck.

Of course, there are many considerations when selecting the right forklift to suit your needs. You will need to keep in mind weight limits and truck specifications as well as the various applications that each truck is suited for. However, fuel type is a major factor in your purchasing decision.

There are three fuel options when it comes to forklift trucks – diesel, electricity, or LPG. Each of these comes with its own advantages as well as its own drawbacks. Here, we’ll take a closer look at each of these possibilities so that you can make a well-informed decision.

What Should I Know About Diesel Forklifts?

Diesel forklift trucks have been around for a long time. However, while many companies still use them, they are no longer as popular as they once were. While these trucks are quite affordable, reliable and robust, making them a cost-effective solution for outdoor environments, they come with some significant disadvantages.

Diesel forklifts are large and noisy, which makes them a less than appealing choice for modern businesses. Furthermore, due to their diesel emissions, diesel forklifts cannot be used in any indoor or enclosed area. They can pose a significant health risk when used in confined environments, so this effectively rules them out for use in warehouses and similar spaces.

What Should I Know About Electric Forklifts?

A newer option when compared with diesel forklift trucks, electric models are becoming more popular across many industries. As an electric forklift has no exhaust pipe it produces no harmful emissions, and this makes it suitable for indoor applications. Electric forklifts are also virtually silent when operating, which makes working onsite more pleasant for the workforce. Furthermore, it is relatively cheap to refuel electric trucks. There are some negative points to consider though. Electric forklift trucks are expensive to buy and have quite a limited range. They also take a long time to recharge which can be very inconvenient and cause downtime when you’re trying to run efficiently.

What Should I Know About LPG Forklift Trucks?

LPG or liquid petroleum gas may be most commonly associated with barbecues and patio heaters, however it is also used as a highly efficient engine fuel. Produced during the processing of natural gas and refining of petroleum, it is clean, reliable, powerful, and safe, which makes LPG an excellent choice for a wide variety of applications.

While there are several types of LPG, propane is one of the best known and most commonly used. Suitable for numerous domestic and industrial purposes, it is an extremely versatile solution. When powering a forklift, forklift propane is becoming a top choice of fuel. Running on LPG forklift gas, these trucks are extremely flexible, ensuring consistent delivery of power and optimal fuel efficiency in both external and indoor environments. By opting for forklift gas instead of diesel or electrically powered machines, you can take advantage of robust reliability with no concerns about harmful emissions. As no time is required to recharge batteries either, LPG forklift trucks are a convenient option – there’s no operational downtime. You can refuel them in minutes, minimising your machinery’s downtime.

Many forklift truck operators express concerns about running out of LPG gas.  As a reliable, trusted bottled gas supplier – innergy have got you covered.  Our large 18kg bottles of LPG for forklift trucks ensure a long usage time and are convenient to use.  With just one phone call to us – we will supply your gas bottle for delivery or collection whenever you need it.

What Are The Advantages Of Opting For An LPG vs Electric Forklift Truck?

It is clear that both LPG and electric forklifts offer some clear advantages over diesel models. For a start, the environmental benefits are obvious. Electric trucks produce no emissions, while LPG burns far more cleanly than diesel, making both options suitable for safe indoor use, not to mention helping companies to hit their eco-friendly targets.

There are some clear advantages that come with choosing an LPG forklift over an electric model. These include:

• LPG forklifts have a longer running time before refuelling or recharging is required.
• Refuelling an LPG forklift can be completed in a couple of minutes instead of having to wait for hours of charging to take place overnight, which is the case for electric trucks.
• LPG models can be used safely and efficiently in both indoor and outdoor environments whereas electric forklifts are best suited only to indoor applications.
• An LPG forklift can accelerate more quickly and can travel more speedily than an electric counterpart.
• LPG models are stronger and more powerful than electric trucks and they offer consistent and reliable power delivery. Electric forklifts often decline in power output as the battery runs down. With a more responsive engine and better power-to-weight ratio, an LPG forklift is a higher performing option when compared with its nearest electric competitor.
• An LPG forklift will be cheaper to purchase upfront than an electric alternative, which is a key factor for many businesses. Recharging equipment and batteries are costly to buy initially, and then when the batteries are finally past their useful lifespan, they are expensive to dispose of.
• Even if a power cut strikes, LPG trucks will remain unaffected, ensuring that operations can continue until the supply resumes.
• Since no space will be required for charging bays, opting for LPG forklifts over electric could give you more vital room on your warehouse factory floor.

Power Your Forklift With Propane From innergy

Here at innergy, we stock gas bottles all year round designed for use with LPG forklift trucks. To find out more about our gas bottle range or to receive some information and expert advice, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our helpful and professional team today on 0113 3079050 or at [email protected]. If you prefer, you can complete our online contact form instead and our sales team will be in touch.