Uniform MoO2 nanoparticles were synthesized and evaluated as intercalation-type lithium anode material within the potential window of 1.0–2.5V. A remarkable high capacity of 226mAhg−1 at 0.1C and ultra-long cycle life of 7000 cycles at 5 C with capacity retention of 135mAhg−1 (96% of initial capacity) have been achieved, which is comparable than that of commercial Li4Ti5O12 anode but with higher capacity. Furthermore, a full cell composed of MoO2 anode and LiCoO2 cathode was assembled exhibiting a high energy density of 179Whkg−1 (based on total mass of cathode and anode active material) and capacity retention of 169mAhg−1 (87% of initial capacity) after 500 cycles at 1C.