The inclusion of conductive carbon materials into lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) is essential for constructing an electrical network of electrodes. Considering the demand for cells in electric vehicles (e.g., higher energy density and lower cell cost), the replacement of the currently used carbon black with carbon nanotubes (CNTs) seems inevitable. This review discusses how CNTs can contribute to the development of advanced LIBs for EVs. First, the reason for choosing CNTs as a conducting agent for the cathode is discussed in terms of energy density. Second, the reinforcing effect of CNTs on the anode is described with respect to the choice of silicon as the active material. Third, the development of water-based cathode fabrication as well as dry electrode fabrication with aid of CNTs is discussed. Fourth, three technical hurdles, that is, the price, dispersion issue, and entrapped metal impurities, for widespread use of CNTs in LIBs are discussed.

    Abstract
        Graphical abstract
    1 Introduction
    2 Conducting agents in lithium-ion batteries
    3 Cathode
    4 Anode
    5 Electrode processing
    6 Three critical hurdles of carbon nanotubes
    7 Conclusion and perspective
    Acknowledgements 
    References

• Jin Hee Kim(Optoelectronics Convergence Research Center, Faculty of Engineering, Chonnam National University)
• Sumin Kim(School of Chemical Engineering, Chonnam National University)
• Jong Hun Han(Optoelectronics Convergence Research Center, Faculty of Engineering, Chonnam National University, School of Chemical Engineering, Chonnam National University)
• Sol Bin Seo(Department of Polymer Engineering, Graduate School, School of Polymer Science and Engineering & Alan G. MacDiarmid Energy Research Institute, Chonnam National University)
• Yu Rim Choi(Department of Polymer Engineering, Graduate School, School of Polymer Science and Engineering & Alan G. MacDiarmid Energy Research Institute, Chonnam National University)
• Jinsub Lim(Korea Institute of Industrial Technology (KITECH))
• Yoong Ahm Kim(Department of Polymer Engineering, Graduate School, School of Polymer Science and Engineering & Alan G. MacDiarmid Energy Research Institute, Chonnam National University)