As a leading company in China’s forklift industry, Anhui Heli has evolved from an early pioneer in China’s forklift manufacturing to a top 7 global industrial vehicle brand, thanks to decades of technological accumulation and innovative practices.
In this article, we will explore its key milestones, explain the innovative strength behind HELI forklifts, and show how this brand is driving the industry’s progress with technology.
Key Milestones in Innovation and Development
Through continuous innovation and strategic global outreach, Anhui Heli has transformed from a domestic manufacturer into a key player in the global material handling equipment industry.
Technological Breakthroughs in Forklift Development
- Pioneering Internal Combustion and Electric Forklifts: HELIdeveloped its first internal combustion (IC) forklift in 1964, followed by the first HELI electric forklift in 1985 — becoming one of China’s earliest innovators in material handling equipment.
- Smart and Automated Solutions: HELI has built digital workshops and intelligent factories powered by an MES system, with over 120 robots, 20+ automated lines, and 78% automation—significantly enhancing production efficiency and establishing a new benchmark in intelligent forklift manufacturing.
- Autonomous and AI-driven Equipment: HELIis now advancing AI-enabled logistics solutions, including AGVs tailored for smart warehouses — part of its 2023–2028 strategic roadmap.
- Innovative and Sustainable Solutions:In 2020, HELI took the lead in developing China’s first supercapacitor hybrid forklift, highlighting its green innovation through advanced hybrid cranes and heavy-duty port machinery applications.
Global Expansion Beyond Forklift Technology
In addition to the continuous development of HELI forklifts, Anhui Heli began its global expansion in 1998 by establishing Anhui Heli Machinery Import and Export Company. Since 2014, it has accelerated international growth with regional centers in Europe, Southeast Asia, North America, and the Middle East.
By 2024, overseas sales reached 6.93 billion CNY—40% of total revenue—up from 1.89 billion in 2020. This surge reflects successful localization strategies[1].
Strategic partnerships, including Jungheinrich (2015) for leasing services and ZF Group (2018) for drivetrain innovation, have further strengthened HELI’s global competitiveness and production capabilities.
Industry Recognition and Awards
Anhui Heli has received numerous accolades affirming its leadership in the forklift industry. In 2017, HELI was recognized by China’s National Industrial Design Center for innovations in ergonomic vehicle design and energy efficiency. In 2018, it was awarded the title of National Green Factory, reflecting its low-emission manufacturing practices.
Additionally, the company also holds ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 50001, CE, and UKCA certifications, ensuring compliance with global quality, environmental, and safety standards for HELI forklifts.
Beyond winning industrial recognitions, HELI is also committed to global industry governance. It engages actively with the Alliance of Industrial Truck Organization and advocates for Chinese enterprises worldwide.
Furthermore, not only does HELI serve as chairman of the China Industrial Vehicle Manufacturers Association, but it also leads the ISO TC110/SC5 Sustainability Sub-Committee, driving the creation and revision of key international standards.
HELI’s Contribution to Industry Solutions
HELI empowers diverse industry solutions through intelligent logistics systems, enhancing automation, safety, and operational efficiency across manufacturing and warehousing.
HELI’s automated guided vehicles (AGVs) provide intelligent logistics solutions, significantly improving efficiency in warehousing and production. Designed for diverse industries, HELI’s AGVs support unmanned warehouses, intelligent sorting, and material distribution.
For example, in partnership with Kelas, a chemical company, HELI’s AGVs use AI-powered warehouse management and laser sensors to optimize operations. These systems autonomously perform tasks like transferring materials and replenishing stocks while adjusting to real-time warehouse conditions.
The integration of HELI’s AGVs helps clients achieve higher production efficiency, enhanced storage utilization, and sustainable, smart factory operations, all while minimizing manual labor and environmental impact.
Besides AGV solutions, HELI also provides an intelligent fleet management system to enhance overall logistics efficiency. Featuring eight functional modules—including vehicle status, driver monitoring, maintenance, fault detection, and real-time reporting—it enables smart, mobile-based management of forklift fleets. This system supports operational safety, energy efficiency, and streamlined logistics across multi-level organizations.
From intelligent AGVs to fleet management, HELI’s smart logistics solutions exemplify its broader commitment to driving digital transformation and operational excellence across multiple industrial scenarios.
Look Ahead with HELI
From cutting-edge product innovation to recognized industry leadership, HELI continues to drive progress in intelligent logistics and beyond. As the company advances, its commitment to sustainable growth, global collaboration, and smart manufacturing remains unwavering. Explore HELI’s journey—and be part of what’s next.
Reference
[1]. Geographical breakdown of sales: Anhui Heli Co.,Ltd. Available at: https://www.marketscreener.com/quote/stock/ANHUI-HELI-CO-LTD-6497588/company/.Accessed on May 6, 2025.