Ford plans to hammer its weaker peers

It is not surprising that the healthier car companies will try to profit from the troubles at GM (GM) and Chrysler. But it is ironic that Ford (F), which was probably considered the weakest American car company three years ago, will likely pick up market share in the second half of the year.

GM and Chrysler must now face the fact that Ford and the big Asian car companies will market their 2010 products to consumers who are confused about what Chapter 11 means at the two struggling American car companies. GM and Chrysler will also lose some customers because they have closed dealers in a number of markets.