In order to evaluate the research activity on lithium batteries in Europe, a short questionnaire was sent to R&D organisation in Europe. A short survey was established from the 50 answers received from public laboratories, which are estimated to represent about 80% of the actual efforts, not including the private organisations and battery companies. From the results, it can be stated that this activity increased by more than 40% for the last five years. More than 90% devoted to rechargeable systems, the main research subjects are on positive materials, supported by a high level solid state chemistry. The research work is largely application-oriented, and supported by important funding programs of the European Commission, in cooperation with manufacturers.