Abstract: A lifting apparatus with a first and a second drive wheel aligned about an axis of rotation. The lifting apparatus structure has a longitudinal dimension defined perpendicular to the axis or rotation and adapted to rotatably support the first and second drive wheels. The lifting apparatus has at least one motive device adapted to drive, either together or independently, the first and second drive wheels. The lifting apparatus structure further supports a lifting mechanism with a lifting surface longitudinally offset from the first and second drive wheels.