Chrysler executives have insisted the company has a viable future despite falling sales and its dependence on US Government aid.

According to the Financial Times, Chrysler's chief executive Bob Nardelli was disappointment the company had failed to forge alliances with other car makers, but said many firms they were talking to faced the same problems.

Referring to the fact all Chrysler's North American plants are closed until January 19, Nardelli claimed they were not in "hibernation".

The carmaker plans to launch 24 models over the next four years and is banking on demand this year for the new Dodge Ram pick-up.

Chrysler received $4 billion from the US Treasury this month and hopes to tap into a further $3 billion by the end of April, after it gains approval for a restucturing plan.

Meanwhile the US car industry is pushing hard for state support for next generation technology.

General Motors, Ford and other carmakers plus parts suppliers are pressing for the incoming Barack Obama administration to provide more funding to promote electric cars, hydrogen fuel cells and next generation biofuels.