A rechargeable lithium-ion battery includes an anode, a cathode and an electrolyte containing one or more dispersed lithium salts. The electrolyte is composed of one or more solvent materials. A principal solvent constituent compound is at least one of .gamma.-valerolactone, methyl isobutyryl acetate, 2-methoxyethyl acetate, 2-ethoxyethyl acetate, and diethyl oxalate.