What types of battery cells does T4O source?
We specialise in high energy density lithium-ion cells for high-performance electric mobility: cylindrical, prismatic, and pouch cells from leading Chinese manufacturers. Our focus is on cells with exceptional energy density, low weight, high power output, and reliable performance under demanding operating conditions.
Which applications do you support?
Electric race cars and Formula E programmes, electric motorsport bikes, electric racing boats and high-performance marine applications, prototype and development programmes, lightweight performance vehicles, and e-mobility applications requiring CE and UN38.3 compliant cells.
Can you source cells not available through European distributors?
Yes — that is our core value. Through our manufacturer and technology partner network in China we provide access to cutting-edge cell technologies that are often not available through traditional European distribution channels, including cells at limited or development production stage.
Who do I pay, and in which currency?
You pay Time 4 Orange Limited — a Hong Kong registered company (CR 1310929, BR 50333265) — by bank transfer to our HSBC Hong Kong account. Invoices are in EUR with the indicative EUR/CNY rate stated. You never transfer money directly to a mainland Chinese manufacturer.
What do your fees consist of?
Each invoice itemises the cell value, a procurement & compliance service fee, and FX handling. There are no hidden margins on the unit price — the structure is transparent before you commit.
Do you inspect cells before they ship?
Yes. All orders are consolidated and checked at our warehouse in Pingshan District, Shenzhen: quantities, specifications, labelling, DG packaging, and documentation — with photo reports. Non-conforming goods go back to the manufacturer before shipment.
Can T4O arrange cell testing and certification?
Yes. We arrange testing at specialist laboratories in Shenzhen: thermal and environmental chambers, electrodynamic vibration testing, cycle-life testing, and the full UN38.3 transport test sequence. Because the labs sit next to the manufacturers, a failed test leads to an engineering change and a retest within days — not months. New battery systems reach the European market significantly faster, with all test documentation included.
How do you handle dangerous goods (DG) compliance for lithium cells?
We confirm UN38.3 test summaries, MSDS documentation, and correct UN classification (UN3480 for cells alone, UN3481 for cells in equipment) before shipment, ensure DG-certified packaging and labelling, and select carriers approved for lithium cargo. The complete DG document set is included with every shipment.
What about China's MOFCOM export controls on batteries?
MOFCOM Announcement No. 58/2025 placed high-performance lithium-ion cells and electrode materials under China's dual-use export-control framework. The measures are currently suspended until November 2026, but exporters remain responsible for correct classification and declarations — and controls can be reinstated at any time. We screen every order at quotation stage, prepare the supporting documentation, and track MOFCOM announcements continuously.
Do you support CE and other EU certification requirements?
We verify that the manufacturer can provide the certificates your application requires (CE, RoHS, test reports) and include the documentation with the shipment. Final regulatory responsibility as importer remains with you, but you will never be surprised at customs by missing paperwork.
Which Incoterms do you offer?
Most clients order EXW Shenzhen, FOB Shenzhen/Hong Kong, or DAP to their EU address. The Incoterm is stated on your quotation and invoice, so responsibilities and cost split are clear from the start.
What are typical lead times?
Sample quantities from existing production: often 2–4 weeks. Custom or tailored orders: typically 4–8 weeks production plus transit. Air freight to Europe roughly 5–10 days, sea freight 4–6 weeks. We confirm a realistic schedule with every quotation.
Is there a minimum order quantity?
MOQs are set by the manufacturer. We regularly handle sample orders of small quantities so your engineering team can validate cell performance before committing to a production run. Sample orders follow the same QC and compliance process as production orders.
How can I verify that T4O is a real company?
Time 4 Orange Limited is registered in Hong Kong under Company Registration No. 1310929 and Business Registration No. 50333265. Both are independently verifiable at icris.cr.gov.hk. Our office is at Rm 502, 5/F, Connaught Commercial Building, 185 Wanchai Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong.
Why a Hong Kong company and not a mainland Chinese one?
Hong Kong gives you a counterparty operating under common-law contracts, English-language documentation, free currency convertibility (EUR/USD/HKD at HSBC), and a public company registry you can check yourself — while our Shenzhen warehouse keeps us physically next to the manufacturers.