this invention includes a tapered electrode assembly for providing a crumple zone in a rechargeable cell . the taper , which may be curvilinear , angular or piecewise linear , allows a void to exist between the corner of the metal can and the electrode assembly . this “ crumple zone ” prevents any external damage to the can from damaging the internal electrode assembly . the invention facilitates passage of common oem drop testing without compromising cell performance or energy storage capacity . the invention increases the reliability of the cell by allowing the cell to resist external impacts .