I am writing to express my dissatisfaction and concern regarding my recent purchase from Shenzhen Vats Power Source Limited. I believe it is essential to bring to your attention the issues I encountered with their products and services, also I discovered that they mislead me to make an offline purchase from Alibaba website so I can’t do anything after my purchase.
In February 2023, I contacted Chloe Xie from Shenzhen Vats Power Source Limited to purchase 192 cells for my Kia Soul EV car. At first, I received an offer for cells (3.7V [protected] – 60AH) with a unit price of USD 20.45. However, upon reviewing the final offer, I noticed that the thickness of the cells was not as agreed upon. Chloe Xie then provided an offer for cells with 14mm thickness instead of the agreed-upon 10mm. After several exchanges, we settled on another cell option ([protected] – 55ah), but even during this process, there were discrepancies in the information she provided about the thickness.
Eventually, we agreed that they would supply me with 192 cells ([protected]-60Ah--$24.3/pcs). On the first of March 2023, I attempted to transfer the money from my bank in Jordan while I was studying in the UK. Unfortunately, the transaction was declined as my presence in Jordan was required for approval. It took approximately 10 days for my brother to successfully transfer the full amount to the company, and the payment was made on the 14th of March 2023.
On the 27th of March, I was informed by Chloe Xie that the requested cells were no longer available, and she proposed an alternative option ([protected]-60Ah) while refunding me USD 192 (USD 1 for each piece) for the difference. Despite the inconvenience, I agreed to the alternative option as the payment had already been made.
The shipment faced significant delays, and the cells only arrived at Aqaba on the 12th of June 2023. Additionally, I incurred additional expenses such as hidden fees charged by the shipping company, customs fees, and internal processing costs. The total expenses related to the purchase and delivery of the cells amount to USD 7515, broken down as follows (i can provide invoices for all amounts below):
Purchase from the company: USD 5015
Shipping company (hidden costs): USD 500
Customs and transportation: USD 1000
Engineer for cell repairs: USD 1000
Unfortunately, my dissatisfaction with the purchase does not end with the delays and additional expenses. Upon inspection by the engineer, numerous cells displayed black marks, indicative of internal issues such as holes and noticeable lithium smell (this marks from the company itself no one from my side did this). When I reached out to Shenzhen Vats Power Source Limited with this information, they denied responsibility and suggested that the marks could have been caused by external factors. I can assure you that no one tampered with the cells, and the issue arose from the source itself. Furthermore, the cells did not meet the agreed-upon specifications, as they could only handle a maximum of 24KW, falling far short of the 45KW capacity initially promised. Moreover, during consumption testing, it became evident that most cells were not performing consistently, exhibiting abnormal voltage decreases.
I am deeply concerned about the potential hazards these defective cells pose to my vehicle and my safety. The risk of lithium gas leakage, potential damage, or short circuiting in my car is alarming and demands immediate attention.
I have attached relevant documents and evidence to support my claims as they mislead me to the offline offers. Please let me know if you require any further information from my end.
Thank you for your attention to this matter. I look forward to a swift response and resolution.