Negotiators with the United Auto Workers union and Chrysler LLC remained at the bargaining table Saturday evening as efforts to reach a tentative contract agreement intensified, a person briefed on the talks said. The person, who requested anonymity because the talks are private, said they are expected to run through the weekend. Ford spokeswoman Marcey Evans and UAW spokesman Roger Kerson did not return calls seeking comment Saturday. Chrysler spokeswoman Michele Tinson confirmed that the parties were negotiating Saturday but would not comment further.

The UAW reached a tentative agreement with General Motors Corp. on Sept. 26 but the agreement must be ratified by a majority of GM's UAW members to take effect. Members began voting last week and are expected to wrap up votes by Wednesday.

A person briefed on the talks said late Friday that the UAW selected Chrysler as its next bargaining target and would turn to Ford Motor Co. last. The person requested anonymity because the talks are private.

A message was left with Ford spokeswoman Marcey Evans seeking comment.