Forklifts: Diesel or electric forklifts: Which drive is better?

When choosing the right forklift for your company, you will certainly ask yourself whether a diesel forklift or an electric forklift is better for you. Both types of drive offer specific advantages that can be decisive depending on the area of ​​application. Diesel forklifts, equipped with robust combustion engines, are particularly suitable for outdoor use and lifting heavy loads. Electric forklifts, on the other hand, impress with their low operating costs and emission-free operation in enclosed spaces.

In this article, we will go into detail about the advantages and disadvantages of both types of forklifts and show you in which situations the electric motor or the combustion engine is the better choice. We will also look at the purchase, maintenance and lifespan costs to help you make an informed decision.

diesel forklifts

Advantages of diesel forklifts

Diesel forklifts are particularly robust and powerful , making them the first choice for outdoor use . Thanks to their powerful combustion engines, they can easily lift heavy loads and work for long periods without interruption . Diesel engines offer a long service life and are less prone to downtime, making them ideal for intensive use on construction sites or in large warehouses.

A clear advantage of this type of drive is the independence from charging stations , as diesel forklifts can be powered by fuel . This makes them particularly suitable for areas with limited power supplies or uneven terrain, where a mobile fuel supply is easy to implement.

Disadvantages of diesel forklifts

A disadvantage of diesel forklifts is the higher purchase price and the tendency to require more maintenance compared to electric forklifts. Diesel engines require regular maintenance and filter changes, which causes additional costs and operating effort.

In addition, there is the emission of exhaust gases , which makes use in enclosed spaces difficult. The exhaust gases require good ventilation of the work site and may be restricted by law in certain work areas. In addition, diesel forklifts cause a higher noise level , which makes them less suitable for noise-sensitive environments.

Applications of diesel forklifts

Diesel-powered forklifts are ideal for use on construction sites, in ports or on large outdoor areas, where they can show off their strengths in handling heavy loads . Thanks to their high performance, they are also well suited to difficult ground conditions . While electric forklifts are more likely to be used in enclosed spaces and for internal operations , diesel forklifts are preferred where large loads have to be moved over long distances. The exhaust fumes and noise make them less suitable for use in enclosed areas , where emission-free solutions such as electric forklifts or gas forklifts would be a better choice.

electric forklifts

Advantages of electric forklifts

Electric forklifts offer many advantages, especially thanks to their emission-free operation and low noise levels . These properties make them ideal for use in enclosed spaces and internal environments where clean air and low noise levels are important. E-forklifts work without a combustion engine and are powered by batteries , which reduces maintenance costs and makes operating times efficient .

In addition, the purchase costs are often lower than for diesel forklifts, especially for used models . The lower operating costs therefore make electric forklifts a cost-effective choice for many companies in the long term.

Disadvantages of electric forklifts

A disadvantage of electric forklifts is the need for a charging station and the limited operating time per battery charge . This requires careful planning of operating times and a charging infrastructure to avoid unnecessary downtime.

Additionally, regular battery replacement is required , which requires additional resources and maintenance . Companies should therefore carefully consider whether the benefits of low running costs outweigh the limitations of limited operating time and charging requirements .

Applications of electric forklifts

Electric forklifts are particularly suitable for in-house use in warehouses , production facilities and other enclosed spaces where low emissions and low noise levels are crucial. They are the first choice for handling goods in sensitive environments such as food warehouses or pharmaceutical companies where freedom from pollutants is a must. Thanks to advanced lithium-ion batteries, modern electric forklifts are ready for use around the clock, provided the charging station is available. Their compact design also offers advantages over combustion engine forklifts in tight work areas . In terms of environmental friendliness and energy efficiency, electrically powered forklifts are a future-proof option, especially for companies that want to reduce their operating costs while working sustainably .

The alternative: LPG forklifts

LPG forklifts are a flexible alternative to diesel and electric forklifts . These forklifts with combustion engines offer the advantage of low-emission operation and are suitable for both outdoor and certain indoor applications . Thanks to the gas drive and lower emissions, they can be used in enclosed spaces , provided there is sufficient ventilation . Compared to diesel forklifts, LPG forklifts are often more compact and have less wear , which makes maintenance easier.

Another plus point is the easy refueling with gas bottles , which means that these forklifts can be used around the clock without the need for a charging station like with electric forklifts . These forklifts offer the perfect balance between the advantages of electric and combustion engine- powered industrial trucks, especially for companies that have to work both indoors and outdoors and need the flexibility of a gas forklift .

Decision Aid: Electric or Diesel

The choice between electric and diesel forklifts depends largely on your specific requirements. Electric forklifts are ideal for indoor use , where zero emissions and soot-free indoor use are crucial. They are particularly compact and ideal for tight floor conditions , but they require a charging station and must be recharged after a certain period of use. Diesel-powered forklifts, on the other hand, offer high performance thanks to their powerful combustion engine and are ideal for outdoor use and lifting heavy loads . They do not require a charging cycle and are ready for use at any time thanks to refueling with fuel , but they require more maintenance and cause more emissions.

If you are still unsure about which industrial trucks are best suited to your location, we will be happy to advise you. At BIBERGER you can rent both electric and combustion engine-powered forklifts to make the best decision for your individual needs.

Do you have further questions about the forklift drive or other topics such as load diagrams or floor conditions?
Contact us.