The Forklift Market Is Changing — and Fast
Over the past few years, the global forklift truck market has undergone a rapid transformation. The arrival of new Chinese-manufactured lithium forklift brands such as EP and GreenPower has significantly reduced the entry cost for electric material handling equipment. This shift has opened the door for small businesses, workshops, farms, and local operations that only need a forklift for short periods each day — but still want the benefits of a clean, modern, and efficient truck.
As businesses across the UK focus more on sustainability, cost control, and operational efficiency, lithium-ion technology has emerged as the smart alternative to diesel and LPG. Affordable lithium forklifts now make it possible for companies of any size to switch to electric power — even for very light applications.
Meeting the Need for Affordable Lithium Technology
For small operations in Essex, Suffolk, London, Norfolk, Kent, Hertfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Buckinghamshire, and Bedfordshire, Fork Truck Direct is proud to introduce the HELI Lithium Lite range — a series of light-duty lithium forklift trucks designed to make electric ownership truly accessible.
These trucks have been engineered specifically for businesses that operate a forklift for just a few hours each week. Instead of paying for power and performance you’ll never use, the HELI Lithium Lite gives you exactly what you need: reliability, efficiency, and affordability — all backed by HELI’s global reputation for build quality.
With delivery available within 4 to 6 weeks and a 6-year lithium battery warranty, the Lithium Lite is an unbeatable choice for businesses ready to move away from diesel or LPG without breaking the bank.
Low-Cost, Emission-Free, and Simple to Operate
Traditional forklifts come with ongoing costs: fuel, servicing, oil changes, and filters. The HELI Lithium Lite eliminates all of that. Powered by a LiFePO₄ (Lithium Iron Phosphate) battery, it’s completely maintenance-free — just plug it in, charge, and go.
That means no fuel storage, no exhaust fumes, and no downtime for routine servicing. For small businesses with limited forklift hours, this can lead to substantial long-term savings while also improving your environmental footprint.
Switching to lithium helps you meet ESG and sustainability goals, reduces CO₂ emissions, and demonstrates your commitment to cleaner operations — something increasingly important to both customers and investors.

Designed Specifically for Light Applications
The HELI Lithium Lite range is built for very light-duty environments — typically 2 to 4 hours of operation per week. This makes it ideal for:
- Small warehouses and distribution units
- Retail and garden centres
- Agricultural and equestrian settings
- Engineering workshops and fabrication shops
- Local authorities and small manufacturers
Each model comes as a standard container-specification build — meaning no customisation options, just a solid, factory-tested forklift ready to go. This streamlined approach keeps production costs low and ensures you get a brand-new, factory-built machine at an extremely competitive price.
Proven Performance and Reliability
Backed by HELI’s world-class engineering, the Lithium Lite range delivers dependable performance without unnecessary complexity. With lift capacities from 1,600kg to 3,500kg and lift heights up to 4,700mm (Triple Mast), it’s capable enough to handle most general warehouse and yard operations.
When you choose Fork Truck Direct, you’re not just buying a forklift — you’re gaining the support of an experienced local dealer with more than two decades of expertise in the material handling industry. Our customers benefit from:
- Fast delivery and local support
- Transparent advice with no hard sell
- Access to genuine HELI parts and servicing
- Trusted aftersales and technical backup
And with 6-year battery warranty coverage, you can operate with complete confidence that your investment is protected for the long term.
Competing Head-to-Head with EP and GreenPower
The HELI Lithium Lite range is designed to compete directly with low-cost lithium brands such as EP and GreenPower. But where some budget imports cut corners on quality or aftersales support, HELI — distributed by Fork Truck Direct — delivers a proven, reliable, and supported alternative backed by a UK-based service network.
For many small and growing businesses, that makes all the difference. You get the price advantage of an imported machine, combined with the reassurance of local expertise, warranty, and backup.
Ideal for Small Businesses Looking to Go Electric
Whether you’re upgrading from an old diesel forklift, replacing an LPG truck, or purchasing your first electric unit, the HELI Lithium Lite offers a smooth and cost-effective transition to lithium power.
You’ll benefit from:
- Zero emissions and quiet operation
- Lower total cost of ownership
- No routine servicing or fuel expenses
- Quick plug-and-charge convenience
- Long battery life and rapid recharge capability
For businesses operating intermittently throughout the week — a few pallet moves here and there, occasional deliveries, or light warehouse use — the Lithium Lite is the smart, modern solution that makes sense both financially and environmentally.

Stock Available Now – Ready for Fast Delivery
Fork Truck Direct currently holds HELI Lithium Lite units in stock, ready for delivery within 4 to 6 weeks. Guide prices range from £18,999 to £21,999 (excluding VAT and delivery) — giving you a brand-new lithium forklift at a fraction of the price of traditional models.
Don’t compromise with second-hand or outdated diesel units when you can go electric today for less than you might expect.
Take the Next Step Towards a Cleaner, Lower-Cost Future
The forklift market is changing — and now is the perfect time to join the shift toward affordable lithium technology.
To learn more or request a quotation, contact Fork Truck Direct Ltd today. Our team covers Essex, Suffolk, London, Norfolk, Kent, Hertfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Buckinghamshire, and Bedfordshire, providing expert advice, rapid delivery, and full aftersales support.
Whether you operate a small workshop, a family business, or a growing warehouse, the HELI Lithium Lite offers everything you need — and nothing you don’t — for dependable, low-cost, and emission-free lifting.