One-dimensional (1D) nanosize electrode materials of lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) nanowires and Co3O4–carbon nanotube composites were synthesized by the hydrothermal method. The as-prepared 1D nanostructures were structurally characterized by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy. We tested the electrochemical properties of LiFePO4 nanowires as cathode and Co3O4–carbon nanotubes as anode in lithium-ion cells, via cyclic voltammetry and galvanostatic charge/discharge cycling. LiFePO4 nanorod cathode demonstrated a stable performance over 70 cycles, with a remained specific capacity of 140mAhg−1. Nanocrystalline Co3O4–carbon nanotube composite anode exhibited a reversible lithium storage capacity of 510mAhg−1 over 50 cycles. 1D nanostructured electrode materials showed strong potential for lithium-ion batteries due to their good electrochemical performance.