The move led to an interim agreement in which Ford will pay more for the parts it receives.

There is no limit on the repair cost, and Ford will pay if a new engine was required.

He also said Ford would not pay executive bonuses for 1990.

Ford would pay for the ship's expenses until early 1917.

Ford, which has already distributed $5.7 billion to investors, could pay for the balance by buying back its stock, he said.

Ford did not pay its bonus last spring either.

This would be the first time since 1992 that Ford has not paid bonuses to executives.

Under the proposed deal, Ford would also pay lawyers for the car owners $29 million.

Cup holders were now prominent features in all models, and Ford paid particular attention to safety.

Ford paid $6.5bn for Volvo when it purchased the company in 1999.