WINNIPEG, Man. – Economy Minister Kevin Chief and Transportation Minister Ron Kostyshyn announced today that the province’s trucking industry can now take advantage of the new regulations allowing the use of wide-base single tires to help reduce fuel consumption.

“We are listening to Manitoba companies that want to access more markets throughout Canada and the U.S.,” said Minister Chief.  “These rule changes will mean greater opportunities for companies that rely on tractor trailers for shipping and capitalize on our geographic advantage being at the center of the continent.  This announcement means trucks travelling north from the United States that use the new generation tires can enter Manitoba for destinations like Centre Port Canada….Research shows recent technology gives wide base single truck tires improved characteristics and reduced fuel consumption with minimal effect on the road networks.”

Minister Kostyshyn added that the new generation tires can be used at full RTAC weights on RTAC highways.

“These changes will have a positive impact on the trucking industry,” he said. “By lifting weight restrictions now placed on single-tire rigs and allowing full weights with either type of tire, these changes provide industry with the flexibility to choose the type of tire suited for their business with minimal impact on our roads and highways.”

The benefits of the truck tires include: less weight than dual tires, decreased greenhouse gas emissions, reduced noise and improve comfort for operators.

The new rules came after many consultations with the trucking industry added Minister Kostyshyn.

“We’ve been advocating for this change for many years so today’s announcement is very welcome news,” said Terry Shaw, executive director, Manitoba Trucking Association.  “Trucking companies interested and able to utilize this technology can recognize significant cost savings through reduced fuel consumption….While we obviously commend the Province on this progressive decision” said Shaw “we’d also like to acknowledge the contributions of Providence’s Buller Centre for Business and 50by30.org.  Their participation in the conversations on the benefits of greater weight allowances for Wide Base Tires, and a host of other economic and environmental opportunities we’re working on for the trucking industry, was much appreciated.”

The changes took effect Feb. 27.