Having worked on electric propelled forklifts, and aerial lifts since back in the mid 80s I have some exposure to limitations of these vehicles. Typically a lead acid battery will be on charge for 2 times the use of the machine with a 120 volt charger that charges at 30-40 amps. If the machine is used for an 8 hour shift it will be off line for 16 hours. If the machine is used heavily, the charge will not make 8 hours, usually around 6 hours. Charging with 220 volts reduces the downtime, same as EV chargers do.
I can't tell you how many times I've come onto a construction site at about 1-2 in the afternoon that the electric/battery aerial lifts were being driven around the site with an extension cord plugged into the charger, so that they could finish the remainder of the shift. I have also have seen forklifts used in a freezer that would simulate cold weather environment that have severely reduced battery capacity when subjected to cold.
Having seen this with lead acid batteries, the lithium isn't that much more advanced that it is a miracle cure for the older style lead acid type. My lithium powered drills, and drivers are subject to the same short comings that the lead acid batteries have endured for years.
Just like anything else, if you want zero emissions inside a building, the electric propelled units are the answer. If you're doing real work, and moving heavy objects with a forklift, running an aerial lift up and down repeatedly in a tall building where there is air circulation from the outside, you want an ICE powered machine (propane, gasoline, or diesel). Each has their advantages in certain situations, as well as drawbacks. Much more overall power for the long run, over electric.
Myself, after exposure to both types of machines, and working on both as my profession, I definitely lean towards an ICE vehicle if it will be used heavily all day long. The electrics are more for light usage, and zero emissions in a enclosed environment. The ICE unit is definitely more versatile than the electrics, and usually cheaper to buy, run, and maintain overall.
The railroad industry has been using ICE engine, electromotive locomotives for years, if someone wants to have the range of an ICE vehicle, and lower emissions of an electric vehicle, I believe the hybrid is much more practical, than a pure electric vehicle. Tesla doesn't have that option, as far as I know of. Just the ICE generator in a trailer option, which goes back to the aerial lifts I posted about earlier, with extension cords powering the chargers, to finish the shift out ............LOL
