When choosing between electric vs diesel forklifts, understanding each type’s strengths and limitations can clarify which option best suits your needs. Each type has unique benefits suited to different environments, operational costs and sustainability goals.
For a company focused on efficient and eco-friendly solutions like Greenpower, understanding these differences is essential to finding the perfect fit for your needs. In this article, we’ll break down the pros and cons of electric forklifts vs diesel forklifts, covering factors like performance, maintenance, cost-effectiveness and environmental impact.
Performance Comparison: Electric Vs Diesel Forklift
Electric Forklifts:
- Long operational hours: Due to increasing efficient battery technology, electric forklifts are able to operate for up to 8 hours at a time while only needing 1-2 hours to fully charge. This results in increased business productivity and less downtime.
- Increased manoeuvrability: Electric forklifts are generally smaller in size compared to diesel forklifts allowing them to navigate tight spaces with ease. This means they are able to perform certain warehouse operations which diesel forklifts are unable to.
- Enhanced Breaking: Electric forklifts are designed with a regenerative breaking system which stops the forklift immediately after the operator removes their foot from the accelerator. This reduces the risk of accidents and ensures employee safety
Diesel Forklifts:
- Very short refuel time: Unlike electric forklifts, it only takes a few minutes to refuel which allows for almost constant use of the forklift.
- Experts at handling rough terrain: Diesel forklifts are designed to be robust and handle rough terrain while maintaining power.
- Higher torque: Diesel forklifts typically have higher torque than electric forklifts. This means they’re able to withstand heavier loads.
Cost of Ownership
When it comes to the cost of electric vs diesel forklifts, both have very distinct and opposite considerations.
While electric forklifts are initially more expensive, they offer savings through reduced fuel costs, lower maintenance needs and longer lifespan. Since electric models don’t require engine oil changes, air filters or constant refuelling, businesses can benefit from reduced downtime and lower overall maintenance expenses. Additionally, as electricity is generally less expensive than diesel, ongoing operational costs remain lower.
Diesel forklifts are now being sold at similar prices to modern electric forklifts which is why electric models are becoming the way to go. Diesel forklifts incur higher fuel expenses over time and require regular maintenance due to their complex mechanical parts and emissions systems. Due to an engine being more complex than a battery powered forklift, there is an increased chance of something going wrong.
Noise and Emission Levels
Diesel forklifts produce higher noise levels which can make it difficult for the operator to communicate effectively with other staff. Due to their combustion engines, they also produce toxic fumes and carbon dioxide, this means they’re extremely restricted in most indoor operations to ensure safety of staff.
If a diesel forklift was to be used indoors, ventilating systems must ensure a constant flow of quality air which isn’t as common in older buildings. As a result, the versatility of diesel forklifts is significantly reduced.
Electric forklifts are significantly less noisy and emit no fumes or emission. Accordingly, air quality will be kept at a high standard and communication will flow efficiently and effectively between operators and floor staff.
Choosing the Right Forklift at Greenpower
Greenpower electric forklifts are quieter, emission-free and better at, but not limited to, indoor operations. Electric forklifts typically have lower total ownership costs despite higher upfront investment.
Though they need charging breaks, modern battery technology has improved charging flexibility. As environmental regulations tighten, electric forklifts are becoming a popular choice for businesses.
We are proud to supply a large fleet of new lithium electric forklifts. Contact us today to enquire or place an order.
