Abstract: The recent progress of the thermal runaway research of lithium-ion batteries is reviewed. The main reasons and characteristics for the thermal runaway of lithium-ion batteries are summarized including the internal and external perspectives factors. It is shown that to improve battery safety，the more thermally stable cathode material，anode material，flame retardant electrolyte， and separator should be used， and a battery thermal management system should be established. Finally，the development of the next generation of high-safety， high-energy-density new lithium-ion batteries， and their thermal runaway behavior is prospected.

Key words: lithium-ion battery, thermal runaway, battery thermal management system