All of scientific findings, economic considerations, public awareness, and technology progress highlighted together the rising importance of energy management to avoid various environmental issues. Electric vehicles (EVs) nowadays play an essential role in lowering the environmental effect of transportation in general, notably greenhouse gas emissions. Knowing that the majority of modern EVs are powered by lithium-ion batteries that have significant benefits such as high energy density, prolonged durability, and quick charging. However, temperature changes have a substantial impact on li-ion batteries performance making them having a reduced capacity, longevity, and safety. Due to the mentioned challenge, this study aims to provide an understanding of the growing environment of lithium-ion batteries (LIB) thermal management against the rising demand for EVs and the challenges these vehicles face due to climate variations. To achieve its objective, this study offers an in-depth review of experimental and computational investigations that were performed between 2020 and 2023 for various heating and cooling systems. Paper findings reflect a dynamic balance in research focus between heating and cooling technologies, which demonstrates the field's adaptation to the upcoming challenges. The yearly research distribution demonstrates the adaptive nature of the research overview with a significant increase in efforts in 2023. Furthermore, the distribution of study methodologies shows a synergy between experimental and computational approaches with stressing a comprehensive knowledge of LIB thermal behavior. As a result, this article serves as a comprehensive yet informative reference for researchers and industry professionals through providing an overview of recent achievements and trends in the fundamental area of the lithium-ion batteries thermal management for electric vehicle technology.