 Li3V2(PO4)3 cathodes were prepared by applying a carbon coating and Y substitution using a rheological phase reaction process. X-ray diffraction was used to observe the structural properties of the synthesized powders. The presence of the carbon coating was confirmed by transmission electron microscopy and thermogravimetric analysis. The Y-doping amount plays a key role on the structure and electrochemical performance of Li3V2(PO4)3. The Li/Li3Y0.03V2(PO4)3/C cell displayed a discharge capacity of 158.8 mAh g−1 between 3.0 and 4.3 V versus Li at a current density of 0.1 C, which is ~30 mAh g−1 higher than that of the undoped Li3V2(PO4)3/C composites. The capacity retention was found to be 93.9 % after 50 cycles and the capacity of Li3Y0.03V2(PO4)3/C stayed around 100 mAh g−1 at a current density of 100 mA g−1.