Disclosed is an electrochemical cell comprising a lithium anode and a sulfur-containing cathode and a non-aqueous electrolyte solvent. In the fully charged state of the cell the concentration of lithium ions is preferably less than 0.3 M. The cell delivers high discharge capacity at discharge rates, for example, C/5, over temperatures ranges of from +25.degree. C. to -20.degree. C. Also disclosed is a battery including an electrochemical cell according to the invention and a device that utilizes such a battery to derive power.