Abstract: A thermal barrier providing an enclosure for a vehicle battery is provided. The thermal barrier comprises a base and at least one sidewall extending from said base. A top is disposed adjacent said sidewalls. The thermal barrier further comprises a heat dissipating layer. The heat dissipating layer may include an enthalpic associated with at least one of the base, the sidewall and the top wherein said enthalpic layer undergoes a phase transformation in response to the application of heat to said enthalpic layer. In addition to the enthalpic layer, the heat dissipating layer may include a low emissivity layer in one or more the base, sidewall and top. The heat dissipating layer may also include a conductive layer or an air gap. Additionally vents may be included in any one of the base, sidewalls and top.