We report a simple strategy to prepare Li4Ti5O12/Cu nanoparticles as an anode material for high rate lithium ion batteries. The copper nanoparticles are highly dispersed on the surface of Li4Ti5O12 through hydrothermal process and a short post -annealing. X-ray diffraction, Field-emission scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy are performed to characterize their structures and morphologies. The cyclic voltammetry, galvanostatic charge/discharge and alternate current impedance are used to evaluate their electric performance. Compared to pure Li4Ti5O12, the Li4Ti5O12/Cu composites has high rate capability, capacity retention and excellent cycling performance. The results show that copper nanoparticles enhance the electric conductivity of Li4Ti5O12/Cu, and prevent agglomeration. Crown Copyright (C) 2013 Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.