Catholyte formulations were examined for lithium primary batteries with the goal to develop ultralow temperature capable batteries. These catholyte solutions were studied in terms of ionic conductivity, film forming properties, and discharge characteristics. Impedance measurements indicated that LiGaCl4 dissolved in sulfuryl chloride fluoride and that chlorodifluoromethane formed stable passive films at both the lithium anode and porous carbon cathode. Cells incorporating these catholytes could be discharged for as low as -130 degrees C, which is approximately 50 degrees C lower in temperature than any other battery chemistry ever reported, to our knowledge.