I wouldn't be so harsh.
- The helix frame is heavy because if its complex folding mechanism. Titanium didn't help. As consequence, even with lightweight components, the complete bike is not really lightweight..
It's not heavy. It's a 24" bike, 1 kg heavier than a 16" T-line, 1 kg lighter than a 20" X11.
From a practical point of view, it's light. I can easily carry my Helix up and down stairs (at the station). Some people with ebikes take the lift.
- Its not smaller than a Brompton or Dahon Curl.
It's because of the size of the wheels. I would have chosen 20" tyres. It would have made more sense, although maybe the ride would have been less comfortable.
- Its not cheap, Helix could never reach its target manufacturing price. It costs more than twice its target price.
I don't know Helix's history or business plan but the Ultralight is still 1-1,5K€ cheaper than a T-line. Titanium is expensive and requires more expertise than steel/aluminum. I don't see how you can plan to market a cheap bike with titanium.
The good news is that they're still in business, which wasn't a given.
Sure, it would be great if they redesigned or released new models (20" with 1.75+ tires) but it's kind of a boutique. They do redesign (rolling wheels, seatpost) but at a slow pace.
If I was a billionaire, I would invest in the company. They offer an alternative and that alternative is amazing. They can build on that success.
With e-bikes being all the rage and where the money is being made, there's not a lot of choice for commuting mechanical folding bikes: Brompton, Birdy (for touring and if you search well), Btwin Fold Light 1s (much cheaper, well designed but cheaply assembled and ridden with QA problems; I almost bought one but the reviews from buyers put me off), Tern, Dahon. And Helix of course.
As always, you have to make compromises by considering what the main purpose of the bike is and carefully listing your requirements.