• Li-air batteries offer ultrahigh theoretical energy density surpassing Li-ion, but face practical hurdles like electrolyte instability and poor cycling.
• Innovative strategies including electrolyte stabilization, electrode modification, and interfacial engineering are being developed to overcome these challenges.
• Progress suggests that practical LABs could achieve energy density comparable to gasoline, potentially revolutionizing electric transportation.
• The review outlines targeted research directions to resolve remaining obstacles in LAB technology.