It depends on the brand, so verify before buying: 1. OTA updates: most newer Chinese EVs update over the air, but some brands tie updates to the region of registration—an exported car may stop receiving them or stay on China firmware. 2. Companion apps: functions like remote climate, charging status, and location often require a Chinese phone number or mainland server access; abroad they may work partially or not at all. 3. Language and units: check the infotainment can switch to your language and your units (miles/km). Ask the exporter to demonstrate the app functions live on video before purchase, and get written confirmation of what will work after export. For the battery, request an SOH (state of health) report—battery replacement is far costlier than any software limitation.

Use credit check apps (like Check Doctor or Ant Queen) to pull the complete accident record.

A typical payment structure looks like this: 1. Deposit: 10-30% after you confirm the car and price, often to reserve the vehicle and start the inspection. 2. Balance: paid after you approve the inspection report, but before or at shipment. A common safeguard is paying against a copy of the bill of lading, with telex release of the original B/L after funds arrive. 3. Never send 100% upfront to a new supplier. Use traceable methods (T/T bank transfer to a corporate account matching the company name, or escrow for first orders) and keep every agreement in writing. 4. Timeline: quote within days, inspection 3-7 days, booking and loading 1-2 weeks, ocean transit 3-6 weeks, customs clearance 3-10 days. Red flags: personal bank accounts, pressure to skip inspection, prices far below market.