Heli has released the first 4-5 T hydrogen fuel cell forklift in China.

The new forklift generates 25 kW with peak output of 55 kW.

According to the company, the hydrogen-powered forklift is safe, efficient, maintenance-free, durable, and adaptable to both high and low temperatures.

Compared with traditional fuel forklifts, it eliminates emissions and significantly reduces vehicle vibration and noise for comfortable driving.

Compared to pure electric forklifts, hydrogen-powered forklifts do not require long recharging times and can be refuelled in just three minutes for four hours of continuous operation.

Heli is one of a handful of manufacturers globally producing hydrogen-powered forklifts and a spokesman says the company will add additional models in this "important and promising segment”.

“In the future, Heli will continue to make efforts in the field of hydrogen forklifts (and) launch a series of hydrogen-powered products covering all types of counterbalance forklifts, tractors, and storage trucks,” he explains. Heli will also increase its cooperation with core enterprises in the hydrogen industry chain to contribute to the development of hydrogen-powered forklifts globally.

One of the key challenges facing the hydrogen forklift market is the limited availability of hydrogen and the lack of fuelling facilities.