Recent advances in zinc–air batteries have been reviewed, highlighting their potential as a viable alternative to lithium-ion batteries for electric vehicles. Zinc–air batteries offer a high theoretical energy density, about five times that of lithium-ion technology, and can be manufactured at a low cost. However, challenges remain in improving their performance, particularly in terms of power output and cycle life. The review discusses the fundamental components of zinc–air batteries, including the zinc electrode, electrolyte, separator, and air electrode, as well as the role of oxygen electrocatalysts. The detrimental effect of atmospheric CO₂ on battery performance is emphasized, along with possible solutions. The review also compares zinc–air batteries with other metal–air batteries and highlights recent advancements in rechargeable zinc–air batteries, including the development of bifunctional air catalysts that can perform both oxygen reduction and evolution reactions. The review concludes that zinc–air batteries hold great promise for future energy applications due to their high energy density, low cost, and environmental benefits.Recent advances in zinc–air batteries have been reviewed, highlighting their potential as a viable alternative to lithium-ion batteries for electric vehicles. Zinc–air batteries offer a high theoretical energy density, about five times that of lithium-ion technology, and can be manufactured at a low cost. However, challenges remain in improving their performance, particularly in terms of power output and cycle life. The review discusses the fundamental components of zinc–air batteries, including the zinc electrode, electrolyte, separator, and air electrode, as well as the role of oxygen electrocatalysts. The detrimental effect of atmospheric CO₂ on battery performance is emphasized, along with possible solutions. The review also compares zinc–air batteries with other metal–air batteries and highlights recent advancements in rechargeable zinc–air batteries, including the development of bifunctional air catalysts that can perform both oxygen reduction and evolution reactions. The review concludes that zinc–air batteries hold great promise for future energy applications due to their high energy density, low cost, and environmental benefits.