Ford expects outstanding 2013 result

Ford Motor Company announced Wednesday that 2013 is expected to be one of the best years in its history and projects 2014 to be another solid year for the company with 23 global product launches and continued investments around the world as the next step in its One Ford plan for profitable growth.

"We are celebrating what we expect to be an outstanding 2013, one that is likely to be among the best in our history," said Bob Shanks, Ford executive vice-president and chief financial officer. "Once the year is finished, we expect it will show that we grew the business, delivered strong financial results, progressed the restructuring of our operations in Europe and Australia, strengthened our balance sheet and provided attractive returns to our investors."

Ford's 2013 full-year automotive revenue is projected to grow about 10 percent, with market share increases in all regions other than Europe, where Ford expects higher retail share of the retail passenger car industry, as well as improved share of the commercial vehicle market. In Asia Pacific Africa and China, the company expects record market shares.

Ford now projects that total company full-year pre-tax profit, excluding special items, to be about $8.5 billion, better than 2012 and in line with its most recent outlook. The company also is reconfirming its outlook that Automotive operating margin will be higher than a year ago and that Automotive operating-related cash flow will be substantially higher than 2012, potentially a record.

Ford expects North America full-year 2013 pre-tax profit to be the highest in more than a decade, with an operating margin of 9.5 percent to 10 percent; this compares to prior guidance of about 10 percent. The difference reflects mainly higher warranty expense of $250 million to $300 million associated primarily with the Escape 1.6 liter recall announced last month.

Finally, the company expects its full year operating effective tax rate to be about 27 percent. This compares to prior guidance of less than 30 percent.