Non-aqueous electrolyte rechargeable battery

A non-aqueous electrolyte rechargeable battery (26) is provided with a switch element (A1) in a circuit for connecting the battery to an external power source (38), the switch element being operable in response to a change in temperature of the battery, thereby disconnecting the battery from the circuit and establishing a short circuit across the positive electrode and the negative electrode, the switch element being capable of restoring to its initial state in response to a change in temperature of the battery.