In this work, Li1.15Mn0.49Ni0.18Co0.18O2 nanoplates with exposed (012) facet are prepared for the first time by co-precipitation method under the assistance of cetyltrimethyl ammonium bromide. As cathode materials of lithium-ion batteries, the Li1.15Mn0.49Ni0.18Co0.18O2 nanoplates can deliver the initial discharge capacities of 219.8 and 192mAhg−1 at 300 and 700mAg−1, respectively. It suggests the Li1.15Mn0.49Ni0.18Co0.18O2 nanoplates possess an excellent rate capability. After 200 cycles, the capacity retention ratio at 700mAg−1 is still as large as 82.6%. The superior rate capability can be attributed to the shorter transport distance of lithium ions in these nanoplates with exposed (012) facet. The above results also indicate that the electrochemical performances of Li-rich layered oxides can be improved by allocating proper facets.