We synthesize LiMn1 (-) xFexPO4-C cathode materials using MnPO4 center dot H2O particles as the precursor. The substitution of Mn2+ with Fe2+ is successfully conducted by the diffusion of Fe2+ after the formation of LiMnPO4. Control experiment confirms that there exists a diffusion of Fe2+ and Mn2+ when LiMnPO4 contacts with LiFePO4 at high temperature. The obtained LiMn0.7Fe0.3PO4-C cathode material has a capacity of 140 mAh/g and good rate performance. (C) 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.