DETROIT (AP) — Chrysler, propelled by higher sales of Jeeps and other revamped cars and trucks, reported its first annual net income since 1997, capping a pivotal turnaround year that many thought would never come.
The U. S. automaker, now privately held and majority owned by Italy’s Fiat SpA, earned $183 million last year, reversing a $652 million loss in 2010, its first full year out of bankruptcy protection.
Chrysler expects an even better 2012, despite a sluggish and uncertain economy. The company, which sells most of its vehicles in the U.S., predicts it will make about $1.5 billion this year and increase revenue 18 percent.
“ The house is in good order,” CEO Sergio Marchionne said today. “Now we greet a new year of high expectations with our heads down, forging ahead.”
Comments are not available on this story.
Send questions/comments to the editors.
