The invention belongs to the field of power management systems, specifically a power management system and method suitable for an electric fork-lift truck. The power of the system is taken from a battery pack, and the system comprises a main control unit (BMCU), a balance control unit (BCU), a power supply module, a liquid crystal display module, and a contactor. The BMCU is used for monitoring and managing the battery pack. The BCU achieves the balanced charging and managing of the battery pack. The liquid crystal display module is used for displaying the system information of a lithium battery pack. The contactor is used for the charging and discharging control of the battery pack. The system is externally connected with a communication charger, and can provide an automatic charging function for the lithium battery pack. The power management system is the important guarantee for the reliable operation of the electric fork-lift truck, and is of great importance to the overall safety of the electric fork-lift truck.