Disclosed is an electrolyte for an electrochemical cell wherein the electrolyte includes a solvent mixture comprising a dioxolane and one or more of 1,2-dialkoxyalkanes of 5 or 6 carbon atoms and/or 1,3-dialkoxyalkanes of 5 or 6 carbon atoms. Also disclosed are cells and batteries including the electrolyte. An electrochemical cell including the electrolyte preferably has an anode that includes lithium and a cathode including an electroactive sulfur-containing material.