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IC Forklift Titans: The G3 Series or K2 Series?

02.25.2026 By Colleen

When your operation demands serious lifting capacity, performance in rain or shine, or the flexibility to work in outdoor terrains without the limitations of battery charging, internal combustion (IC) forklifts remain the first choice for many.

HELI’s IC forklift range is known for being durable, powerful and reliable; at the top of the list sit two distinct product series, each engineered for different operation site needs and budgets, whilst delivering the performance and capabilities all Australian businesses can rely on. We introduce to you the HELI K2 Series and G3 Series Internal Combustion Forklifts.

 

Two Series, One Purpose in short.

The HELI internal combustion range is far from complicated, with both the K2 Series and G3 Series forklifts offering lifting capabilities starting from 1T and all the way to 10T.

K2 Series IC Forklifts: The K2 Series delivers robust, dependable performance. It’s the forklift that gets the job done, day in and day out, without the fuss and frills.

G3 Series IC Forklifts: The G3 Series sits in our more premium IC forklift range. Designed and engineered with advanced technology, superior operator comfort in mind and performance features needed for demanding applications.

While both forklifts get the job done reliably with powerful performance, the G3 Series forklift adds a few extra capabilities, refined with more premium features.

 

The K2 Series

The K2 Series Internal Combustion Forklift is the powerhouse that just works, engineered to handle your daily material handling needs. It’s a straightforward combination of reliability, durability and powerful performance at a competitive cost that doesn’t break the bank.

Whether you need less or more lifting power, there are numerous models within the K2 Series forklift range to suit your lifting needs, anywhere from 1T through to 10T.

The K2 Series forklift covers the full spectrum when it comes to industrial applications. There’s no compromise when it comes down to its fundamental capabilities, lifting and operating reliably in tough conditions every day, where other equipment may falter.

 

The G3 Series

Where we look further into the forklift operator experience and additional features needed for more complex operations, or just a need for a more premium forklift model within the business, the G3 series IC forklift hits the mark every time. This forklift is re-engineered and refined to ensure operator comfort and includes features that take basic material handling to the next level, a testament to HELI’s commitment to continuous improvement, innovation and technological advancements.

The G3 series forklift is suited for all lifting needs with models ranging from 1T through to 10T lifting capacities.

Where many competing brands’ premium models may be cosmetically improved from their base forklift models, the G3 series IC forklift brings tangible engineering improvements. From more responsive power trains, superior fuel efficiency, enhanced hydraulic systems and ergonomic design for operator comfort; a combination that notably improves productivity for longer shifts and complex worksites.

 

Choosing between the two?

Where many would jump to the premium model forklift, it’s important to assess what your worksite or business needs before making an informed decision.

We recommend starting with the K2 series IC forklift if…

  • Your operations/worksite is budget-conscious (especially if you’re purchasing multiple units and total fleet cost matters).
  • The job requires relatively straightforward material handling and operational simplicity.
  • You need reliable internal combustion material handling equipment without the additional premium features.

We recommend stepping up to the G3 Series forklift if…

  • Daily heavy-duty forklift operation is required.
  • Operator comfort and ergonomics are concerns for longer shifts.
  • Your worksite requires smoother operation and precise control.
  • Your operations need to improve fuel consumption and reduce emissions.
  • Making a long-term fleet investment.

The real value behind HELI’s internal combustion forklift range isn’t just the equipment itself, but also the range of options readily available to suit different businesses/worksites of different budgets and operational needs. Not all operations require the premium model, such as the G2 series IC forklift and not everyone should settle for the basic when their operation/site demands more.

 

Both the G2 series and K2 series forklifts deliver the fundamentals of an internal combustion forklift that can withstand and work hard through any Australian conditions, backed by a comprehensive dealer network with service and parts readily available. For more information and expertise on HELI’s IC forklift range, get in touch with your nearest authorised HELI dealer today.