The compound Bi 4 V 2 O 1 1 has been tested as a positive electrode in room temperature electrochemical lithium cells. When the cells are discharged down to 0.5 V the reaction of Bi 4 V 2 O 1 1 with 28 lithium ions develops a theoretical specific capacity of 700 Ahkg - 1 . Hence, this compound could be used as cathode in primary lithium batteries. Besides, we consider the fact that in the low voltage region (1.3-0.5 V) Li 2 8 Bi 4 V 2 O 1 1 develops about 360 Ahkg - 1 at 0.7 V, and, therefore, this material is proposed as a negative electrode in lithium ion batteries. The mechanism of the reaction of Bi 4 V 2 O 1 1 with 28 lithium ions is not yet fully understood, although some guidelines can be given.