DaimlerChrysler has posted a fourfold increase in operating profit of £3.9bn (2001 = £0.9bn) in its consolidated financial statement for 2002.

All divisions report higher earnings. Mercedes Car Group operating profit was slightly up at £2.03bn; Chrysler Group at £0.88bn; Commercial Vehicles at £119.6m and Services at £655m.

"In view of the economic situation, on the whole we are satisfied with the results for 2002. This is one important step on the road to sustainable profitability," says group chief executive Juergen Schrempp.