Chrysler to pay bonuses a month early

AUBURN HILLS, Mich., Feb. 7 (UPI) -- Chrysler Group Chief Executive Officer Sergio Marchionne said bonus checks would arrive early this year following the first company profit in 15 years.

Chrysler earned a net profit of $183 million in 2011; it also reported an operating profit of almost $2 billion, the first since 2005, The Detroit News reported Tuesday.

"It took an incredible team effort to bring about such remarkable results, and you should be proud," Marchionne said Monday in a message to union workers.

The average bonus check for hourly workers will come to $1,500, less taxes and union dues, the newspaper said.

The checks are normally sent in March. This year, the checks should arrive by Feb. 10, a Friday.

"I ask that you continue to demonstrate the strength and courage you have shown to challenge our destiny and revitalize this great company. The future holds enormous opportunity, and it's a challenge that calls for our continued, shared commitment," Marchionne said in the e-mail.