The LiNi1/3Co1/3Mn1/3O2 is first obtained by the controlled crystallization method and then coated with Ni-3(PO4)(2) particles. The effects of the coating on rate capability and cycle life at high cut-off voltage are investigated by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and galvanostatic measurements. The element ratio of Ni:Mn:Co is tested by inductively-coupled plasma spectrometer (ICP) analysis and it testified to be 1:1:1. It is indicated that Ni-3(PO4)(2)-coated LiNi1/3Co1/3Mn1/3O2 has an outstanding capacity retention, where 99% capacity retention is maintained after 10 cycles at 5C discharge rate between 2.7 V and 4.6 V. The electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) results show that the current exchange density i(0) of the coated sample is higher than that of LiNi1/3Co1/3Mn1/3O2, which is beneficial to its electrochemical performances. All the conclusions show that the Ni-3(PO4)(2) coating can prominently enhance the high rate performance of the LiNi1/3Co1/3Mn1/3O2, especially at high cut-off voltage. (C) 2014 The Chemical Industry and Engineering Society of China, and Chemical Industry Press. All rights reserved.