A nonaqueous electrolyte having maleimide additives and rechargeable cells employing the same are provided. The nonaqueous electrolyte having maleimide additives comprises an alkali metal electrolyte, a nonaqueous solvent, and maleimide additives. Specifically, the maleimide additives comprise maleimide monomer, bismaleimide monomer, bismaleimide oligomer, or mixtures thereof. The maleimide additives comprise functional groups, such as a maleimide double bond, phenyl group carboxyl, or imide, enhancing the charge-discharge efficiency, safety, thermal stability, chemical stability, flame-resistance, and lifespan of the secondary cells of the invention.