Intrinsic structure stability of Li4Ti5O12, Li2TiO3 and Li2Ti3O7 is confirmed by XRD in the broad electrochemical range (0.0-5.0V versus Li/Li+). It is clearly that all the Li-Ti-O ternary compounds can accommodate lithium ions in their crystal structures. Attributed to the stable framework all these Li-Ti-O, compounds show excellent cycle calendar life. One drawback to date for these compounds is the poor kinetic behaviors result from low electronic conductivity. Carbon coating is a kind of effective method for improvement. Comparing with carbon free Li-Ti-O ternary compounds, it is obvious that thermal stability, cyclability and reversible specific capacity are obviously enhanced with carbon coating. After many cycles, large reversible capacities approximate 224 mAh g(-1) (50 cycles), 90 mAh g(-1) (50 cycles) and 219 mAh g(-1) (27 cycles) are delivered for Li4Ti5O12/C, Li2TiO3/C and Li2Ti3O7/C, respectively. (C) 2008 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.