LeftieBiker said:high drain low capacity LiFePO4, etc
I think you may have misread an acronym. The highest output lithium batteries, as far as I know, are the Lithium Polymer batteries, often called "LiPo." LifePo4 chemistry is the safest by far, but also has the lowest energy density in the class. They are used when safety and durability are the primary concerns.
I see your point but I am fairly well versed in batteries. I have a bunch of li-ion packs between 12v and 52v for ebikes and things. I've built electric trikes and other vehicles for burning man. I also recently converted a KTM Pitbike over to 8kW electric using a 76.8v LiFePO4 pack that I built. This pack can output 200a without breaking a sweat and it's tiny.
Everything you mentioned is correct except that you left out that lithium iron phosphate is second inline for highest output of commonly available chemistries. I will take #2 in output and #1 in safety for a race vehicle any day. LiPo would be faster but only until it catches fire.
The safety factor is huge for me.