Coaxial MWNTs@MnO2 confined in conducting polypyrrole (PPy) has been synthesized through an in situ polymerization of pyrrole monomers in the presence of prepared MWNT5@MnO2. As an anode in lithium batteries (LIBs), the obtained MWNTs@MnO2@PPy shows a high reversible capacity of 530 mA hg(-1) tested at 1000 mA g(-1) even after 300 cycles and an excellent rate performance. The superior electrochemical performance of the nanocable MWNTs@MnO2@PPy is associated with a synergistic effect of the MWNT matrix and the highly conducting PPy coating layer. This nanocable configuration not only facilitates electron conduction but also maintains the structural integrity of active materials. In addition, an analysis of the AC impedance spectroscopy and the corresponding hypothesis for DC impedance confirm that such configuration can effectively enhance the charge-transfer efficiency and the lithium diffusion coefficient. Thus, PPy modification supplied a promising route to obtain manganese oxide based anode in order to achieve high-performance LIBs. (C) 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.