Strong US sales helps Ford report best first-quarter profit in 13 years

FORD has reported its best first-quarter profit in 13 years, driven by strong sales in its home market and demand for more fuel-efficient vehicles.

The company also said yesterday that last month’s earthquake which has hurt the supply chain in Japan has had “minimal” impact on its business. Analysts said Ford may even stand to gain.

“Ford continues to get market share. We expect this trend will continue,” said Channing Smith, co-manager of Capital Advisors Growth Fund. “I think Ford and a lot of the other American automakers will take market share from the Japanese.”