Looks like a scam.
Everyone is entitled to their opinion, but I'd point out to you that to get VAT registration in the UK the company, directors and their bank account have to go through some very tight security and identity checks.
sorry op but this is bulshit. anyone who are making more than few quid a year can jump on vat and registration is not difficult at all.
As stated before in forum Ltd company these days means nothing. just limited liability for you. personal I can chase your person to recover lost money but who will care to put more money upfront to chase you in case something will go wrong?
pre order are nonsense from definition . people are tired paying for non existence gear. basically you don't want to go to bank, put your house as security for large loan and make prototype this way.
once prototype will exist comeback here show it's working and ask for btc. This field is full of scams and trust me you will get bold quickly when people will grill you over few inconsistency.