High energy density cathode materials, such as LiNiXMnYCoZO2 (NMC) cathode materials, with improved discharge capacity (hence energy density) and enhanced cycle life are described. A solid electrolyte, such as lithium phosphate infused inside of secondary particles of the cathode material demonstrates significantly enhanced structural integrity without significant or without any observable particle cracking occurring during charge/discharge processes, showing high capacity retention of more than 90% after 200 cycles at room temperature. In certain embodiments the disclosed cathode materials (and cathodes made therefrom) are formed using nickel-rich NMC and/or are used in a battery system with a non-aqueous dual-Li salt electrolytes.