We report the preparation of Li0.33MnO2 nanorods from gamma-MnO2 nanorods reacted with LiNO3 by a low temperature solid-state reaction method. The Li0.33MnO2 nanorods tend to be oriented along the b-axis, and show an improved rate capability and cycling performance as positive electrode for lithium battery. It delivers a discharge capacity of 199 and 129 mAh/g at the current rate of 0.1 C (20mA/g) and 2 C. respectively, and keeps 92% of initial capacity over 100 cycles. Li0.33MnO2 nanorods reduce both the electrode bulk resistance and charge-transfer resistance for lithium-ion intercalation. The advantage of nanorods results from good electrical conduction, appropriate length of nanorod and small volume expansion from appropriate orientations of tunnels structure. (C) 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.