A hybrid rechargeable lithium battery, which includes a plurality of high power rechargeable cells, having nano-particles therein, and high energy density rechargeable cells, with the high energy cells recharging the high power cells. The battery preferably includes a low volt parallel charger to simultaneously and individually charge both the high power and high energy cells, through a protective device. All cells are then discharged in series at high voltage, and are individually protected from over discharge. A rechargeable battery having both high power and high energy density cells is thus provided.