Lithium Ion batteries are typically used in laptops, primarily because they don't get a "memory". They're lighter, require less current to flow the same wattage as opposed to say a NiCad battery, and discharge a lot slower than typical batteries. They are however pretty dangerous in that they are volatile and can explode under enough pressure and heat.
Contrary to popular belief, batteries actually prefer the cold (to some extent) as do all electronics. Heat is a battery's worst enemy.