The present invention discloses a novel ZEBRA-type sodium-sulfur (Na-S) battery. The cathode consists of active material of sulfur mixed with Ni current collector. NaAlCl4 is employed as the catholyte, which is similar to that in ZEBRA batteries. This new type of battery retains most of the advantages of the state-of-the-art Na-S and ZEBRA batteries while overcoming the related deficits. The most attractive features of this new battery are the lower operating temperature, higher energy density and better cycle life than both Na-S and ZEBRA batteries, which makes it suitable for renewable integration and grid applications, along with commercial or fleet transportation.