Diesel or LPG forklift
Both are combustion trucks with a similar structure. What changes is where they work best and what they cost to run.
Quick summary
| Criterion | Diesel | LPG / gasoline |
|---|---|---|
| Main use | Outdoors, construction, ports, yards | Outdoors and ventilated or semi-enclosed sheds |
| Power and torque | High low-rev torque, good on ramps | Smooth, quieter response |
| Emissions | Higher; not advisable in enclosed spaces | Cleaner than diesel; ventilation still needed |
| Refuelling | Diesel tank | LPG cylinder swap or gasoline tank |
| Capacities in our range | From 1.5 to 10 t | From 1.5 to 7 t |
When to choose diesel
If you work mostly outdoors, on uneven ground, ramps or heavy loads for many hours, diesel is the most robust option. It also has the highest capacity in the combustion range.
When to choose LPG
If you alternate between outdoors and a ventilated shed and want a cleaner, quieter engine than diesel, LPG is a good middle ground. It keeps the structure of a combustion truck without the smoke and noise of a diesel.
And if you only work indoors
For enclosed indoor work, consider an electric or lithium truck: they emit no exhaust while in use. We compare them in the electric, lithium or diesel guide.