Anatase TiO2 nanorods (NRs), with an average diameter of 3–4nm and an average length of 25–30nm were investigated as Li-insertion material. The NRs, capped with oleic acid, were synthesized by a low temperature colloidal route based on thermal decomposition of the precursors in presence of coordinating agents. A highly porous and connective network of NRs and carbon was prepared by taking advantage of this organic capping to inhibit the nanoparticle agglomeration and to act as a precursor for the formation of a carbonaceous percolating network. Composite electrodes, made of such material, were able to deliver reversible capacities of about 250mAhg−1 (corresponding to 0.75equiv. of Li per TiO2 unit). Reversible capacities of 210mAhg−1 (0.63 Li per TiO2), 194mAhg−1 (0.58 Li per TiO2), 165mAhg−1 (0.49 Li per TiO2), and 130mAhg−1 (0.39 Li per TiO2) were observed during cycle tests at 1C, 2C, 5C, and 10C, respectively, confirming the excellent high rate performance of the well-dispersed NRs. Finally, the electrodes showed excellent cycle life performance.