DAIMLERCHRYSLER has reported a 14% increase in third quarter net income year-on-year of £0.96 billion with operating profit up 24% to £1.66 billion. For the nine months ended September 30, global vehicle sales for Mercedes-Benz cars increased 20% from 653,700 to 784,600 units year-on-year, commercial vehicles up 15% from 355,600 to 410,300, while sales of Chrysler, Plymouth, Jeep and Dodge cars and truck were up 3% from 2,348,300 to 2,407,200 units.

In a joint statement, DaimlerChrysler chairmen Robert Eaton and Juergen Schrempp said: 'We anticipate further healthy progress in the current quarter. In 2000 we will launch a series of new products that we believe will create a highly profitable model mix, ensure our premium position and strengthen our competitive position.'