COBRA addresses the main shortcomings of xEV batteries that are now in the market by enhancing each component in the system holistically. The COBRA battery cells will be fabricated using electrodes containing no cobalt without compromising capacity and nominal voltage. The new components will allow rapid cell charging and enhanced safety at a reduced cost. At cell level, the main target is to maximize energy density and integrate smart sensors to improve safety. The battery pack will be constructed using sustainable and recycled materials, and the advanced BMS will ensure optimum battery performance and an extended lifetime for the system. The COBRA project will allow the development of European technology for generation 3b of Li-ion batteries, with an improved performance (electrochemical, economic, and environmental) that could be exploited at an industrial scale shortly after the project’s completion. The COBRA project is important for society in many aspects, including 1) decarbonizing road transport, 2) the production of innovative and sustainable materials and processes for battery production that can be easily adapted to production lines, 3) the reduction of CRM, especially Co, to improve aspects related to energy security, “conflict mineral” vs “ethical supply chain”, and toxicity associated to current Li-ion batteries, 4) reduce dependency on foreign suppliers 5) validate a cost-effective and sustainable technology for the end-user and 6) fulfill energy and power demands associated to xEV of the near future. Regarding COBRA objectives, COBRA will develop a Co-free Li-ion battery technology, demonstrate it at TRL6 (battery pack), and validate it on an automotive EV testbed. At the component level, the main objectives are as follows: a) high discharge capacity and fast C-rate discharge capacity for the cathode, b) useful cycle life of 2000 cycles and withstand high C-rates for the anode, c) stable electrolyte operation at > 4.5 V, d) energy density of at least 750 Wh/l at cell level, e) develop an advanced BMS including smart sensors, f) a more sustainable battery pack with improved characteristics, g) testing and validation of the battery pack for xEV applications and h) attain >95% recyclability of metals at large scale and avoid the use of Co by 100%.