Chrysler is on track to return to profitability within the next couple of years in spite of the worsening US economy, according to Bob Nardelli, the chief executive of the Detroit-based carmaker.

Unlike some other executives in the motor industry, Mr Nar­delli sees little chance of an improvement in the market during the second half of this year, projecting sales of about 15.5m cars and light trucks, down from 16.1m in 2007. Nonetheless, he told the Financial Times: “We’re on the appropriate slope to deliver to our investors in spite of the economic headwinds.