The influence of partial substitution of Cr for V on the activation of TiMn based hydride electrodes has been investigated. The results indicate that the partial substitution of Cr for V is favourable for increasing the activation of TiMn based alloys. High discharge capacity (397mAh/g) can be obtained for 1 at% Cr content However, with increasing Cr content. the activation and discharge capacity of the alloy decrease. X ray results indicate that there are two main phases existing in the alloy:V rich V 3Ni 2 and Ti rich TiMn 2.