Shelby GT, MKS nod

FORD has also revealed its intention to produce a number of new models for the US and elsewhere, including the Lincoln MKS prestige sedan and a Shelby GT sportscar based on the limited-run (for rent-a-car outfit Hertz) Mustang GT-H it revealed at the New York auto show in April.

The latter will available for the 2007 model year, while the MKS is due early in 2008.

Ford is also expected to soon confirm production of the Fairlane SUV, a further move in its "Way Forward" plan and its commitment to returning Ford’s North American auto business to profitability "no later than 2008".