Facile synthesis of highly crystalline spinel-type LiMn2O4/multiwalled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) composite by a novel two-step approach is achieved. This approach involves an acetone-assisted hydrothermal reaction in LiOH solution using previously prepared birnessite MnO2/MWCNT composite as a manganese containing precursor. The lithium manganate spinel Li0.81Mn2O4/MWCNT composite delivers a high specific capacity of 145.4 mAh g(-1) at 0.1 C-rate, which is close to the theoretic capacity of LiMn2O4 (148 mAh g(-1)). Besides, it exhibits excellent high-rate capability and cyclability. For example, a discharge capacity of 114.8 mAh g(-1) is retained even at a high charge/discharge current rate of 20C. When it is repeatedly cycled at 1C rate for 1000 cycles, the specific capacity is decreased from the initial value of 140.4 mAh g(-1) to an end value of 98.7 mAh g(-1), giving 70.3% capacity retention. (C) 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.