Researchers explore the use of metal oxides and oxysalts as anode materials for lithium (Li) ion batteries (LIB). LIB packs can satisfy the requirements of high-power and high-energy-density applications. They have been explored and implemented for vehicular transport over a period of time. LIBs are also actively being considered for power tools, back-up power supply units and off-peak energy storage from the electric grid in addition to vehicular transport. LIBs need to satisfy four important criteria for all these uses, including cost reduction and safety-in-operation. Improvements in the low- and high-temperature operation of these batteries can drive their use in a wide range of applications. Research efforts are being made to satisfy the needs of some of these uses by finding alternative electrode materials based on cheap and environmentally friendly compounds, which will work on principles that are different from the Li intercalation-deintercalation reactions.