Ford Motor Company reported 2010 full year net income of $6.6 billion, or $1.66 per share, an increase of $3.8 billion, or 80 cents per share, from 2009. This was Ford’s highest net income in more than 10 years, as strong products and new investments fueled improvements in all of the company’s business operations around the world.

“Our 2010 results exceeded our expectations, accelerating our transition from fixing the business fundamentals to delivering profitable growth for all,” said Alan Mulally, Ford president and CEO. “We are investing in an unprecedented amount of products, technology and growth in all regions of the world.”

This increase reflects a profit in each Automotive segment led by strong performance in North America, reflecting primarily favorable volume and mix as well as favorable net pricing. Ford Credit’s strong profit also contributed significantly to Ford’s full year performance.

Ford made significant progress in strengthening its balance sheet, reducing Automotive debt by $14.5 billion in 2010, a 43 percent reduction. These actions will lower annualized interest expense by about $1 billion. Ford finished the year with Automotive gross cash exceeding debt by $1.4 billion.

The progress that we made improving our core Automotive business has allowed us to strengthen significantly the balance sheet in 2010, and this will remain a key area of focus for us in 2011.

We continue to manage the business for long term profitable growth.

Ford Motor Credit Company is a strategic asset for Ford, providing financial services to Ford dealers and customers around the world. Through responsible, consistent, fair and transparent practices, Ford Credit drives sales, supports dealer success and promotes customer satisfaction and loyalty. Ford Credit profits and distributions support Ford’s business, including development of new cars and trucks.