The present invention provides a cost effective process of generating LixMyZO4/carbon composite material. Further, this novel method of preparation can be modified by adding a dopant and the calcinations can be carried out using microwave heating to reduce the synthesis time and cost. The LixMyZO4/carbon composite material can be used as a cathode for a secondary electrochemical cell. Selection of one or more metals in the cathode material can be used change the voltage, the capacity, and the energy density of the electrochemical cell.