Novel Ni-doped titanate derived from protonated layered titanate has been fabricated via a simple ion-exchange process at room temperature. The as-synthesized product was calcined at 400 degrees C for 3 h to obtain the Ni-TiO2 (anatase). The crystal structure of Ni-TiO2 was studied by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and the surface chemistry was studied by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). It was found that doped nickel ions had inhibition effects on the crystallization of TiO2 during calcination. The electrochemical properties of Ni-TiO2 and undoped TiO2 were both tested as anode materials for lithium-ion batteries at room temperature. While the undoped sample exhibited a mediocre performance, having a discharge capacity of 132 mAhg(-1) after 50 cycles, the nickel-ion doped sample demonstrated noticeable improvement in both of its discharge capacity and rate capability; with a high capacity value of 226 mAhg(-1) after 50 cycles. This improvement of lithium ion storage capability of Ni-TiO2 can be ascribed to the Ni-doping effect on crystallinity and the modification of electrode/electrolyte interface of the TiO2 structure. (C) 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.