NOVELTY - The lithium ion battery comprises pairs of positive and negative electrodes arranged in an overlying orientation presenting a positive and negative lead terminal, a polymer layer associated with an active biasing material associated with each of the positive and negative electrodes, a heat protectant associated with the positive and negative electrodes, a pair of electrode current collectors connected to the lead terminals forming a cell assembly, and a frame having an outer frame member adapted for receiving the cell assembly. The polymer layer includes an electrolyte.    USE - The lithium ion rechargeable battery is useful in hybrid vehicles.    ADVANTAGE - The lithium ion rechargeable battery can be rapidly, easily and economically manufactured with desired electrical characteristics, improved cell performance and yield and excellent energy density.    DETAILED DESCRIPTION - The lithium ion battery comprises pairs of positive and negative electrodes arranged in an overlying orientation presenting a positive and negative lead terminal, a polymer layer associated with an active biasing material associated with each of the positive and negative electrodes, a heat protectant associated with the positive and negative electrodes, a pair of electrode current collectors connected to the lead terminals forming a cell assembly, and a frame having an outer frame member adapted for receiving the cell assembly. The polymer layer includes an electrolyte. The lead terminals are shaped for receipt by the current collectors. The frame further includes an electronic network in communication with the lead terminals at a pair of inner raceways associated with the frame. INDEPENDENT CLAIMS are included for:    (1) a method of forming an electrochemical cell assembly; and    (2) a method of assembling a lithium ion battery comprised of lithium ion cells.    DESCRIPTION OF DRAWING(S) - The diagram shows a sectional view of stacked cell assemblies.    Cell assembly (28)    Anode collector (42)    Cathode collector (44)    Battery module. (50)