This work reports an electrochemical investigation of a Sn-Co-C ternary electrode which supposedly is similar to that adopted in a new lithium-ion commercial battery. The electrode, obtained by mechanical-milling of Sn, Co and C (graphite), and having the Sn31Co28C41 composition, shows very promising electrochemical characteristics both in terms of specific capacity and rate. The practical relevance of this electrode is demonstrated by using it as anode in a new type of lithium-ion battery which cycles with a good capacity and with a high coulombic efficiency. (C) 2007 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.