TiN/VN core-shell composites are prepared by a two-step strategy involving coating of commercial TiN nanoparticles with V(2)O(5)center dot nH(2)O sols followed by ammonia reduction. The highest specific capacitance of 170 F g(-1) is obtained when scanned at 2 mV s(-1) and a promising rate capacity performance is maintained at higher voltage sweep rates. These results indicate that these composites with good electronic conductivity can deliver a favorable capacity performance. (C) 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.