LiFePO4, doped LiM4Fe1-xPO4, and LiM1-xFexPO4 compounds have been prepared via a sol-gel synthesis method. The physical properties of the as-prepared lithium iron phosphates were characterised by X-ray diffraction, X-ray absorption near-edge spectroscopy (XANES), and magnetic susceptibility. The electrochemical properties lithium iron phosphates were tested by a variety of electrochemical techniques. Lithium iron phosphate electrodes demonstrated a stable discharge capacity of 160-165 mAh g(-1), almost approaching the theoretical capacity. The good electronic conductivity and nanocrystalline could contribute to the unique performance of lithium iron phosphate electrodes. Lithium iron phosphates have a significant potential to be used as a new cathode materials in Li-ion batteries. (c) 2006 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.