The United States, China and virtually every other nation with an industrial base have concluded that powerful advanced batteries and the product that will chiefly use them - affordable, long-distance electric cars - will be the world's next great engine of economic growth. The Powerhouse tells the story of a group of U.S. scientists working towards this great technological breakthrough, following them over a two year period of emotional highs, setbacks and innovation. This is the story of cutting-edge science, and the people working towards a world-changing battery.