Minister of Crown Services Cliff Cullen and Manitoba Public Insurance announced that nearly 80,000 loans have been processed for Manitobans taking advantage of the province’s low-interest Winter Tire Program.

“Response by vehicle owners continues to be very positive and well received,” said Cullen. “This low-interest Winter Tire Program assists Manitobans to equip their vehicles with winter tires with the ultimate goal being fewer winter collisions and safer roads.

“With colder temperatures and winter conditions now here, Manitoba vehicle owners are strongly encouraged to winter-harden their vehicles before the arrival of harsher weather.”

More than 600 participating retailers

Now entering its fourth year, the program provides loans of up to 48 months at prime plus two per cent up to $2,000 per vehicle. Participation is as easy as going to any one of 646 participating winter tire retailers in the province who can direct bill Manitoba Public Insurance once customer eligibility for the program is confirmed and loan authorizations approved.

Eligible tires will display a snowflake symbol, as endorsed by Transport Canada. This symbol indicates that the tires have met specific snow traction performance requirements and are designed to be used in severe snow conditions.

“Numerous road safety studies confirm that winter tires reduce braking distances by lessening sliding on ice and snow,” said Ward Keith, vice-president, Business Development & Communications and CAO, Manitoba Public Insurance.

“Road safety needs to be a priority of everyone who travels on our roadways. Reducing fatalities and injuries is a goal which can be achieved when everyone makes the commitment to safety. Preparing for winter with the use of winter tires is one way to keep our roads safe by improving traction and reducing stopping distances.”

Customers interested in participating in the program are encouraged to visit Manitoba Public Insurance’s website at mpi.mb.ca for more information on program rules and to select one of the 646 participating retailers throughout Winnipeg and rural Manitoba.

Quick Facts:

  • The average length of a winter tire loan is currently about three years.
  • The average loan amount is approximately $1,200.
  • At temperatures just below freezing on dry pavement, winter tires have been shown to reduce stopping distances by as much as 30 per cent compared with all-season tires.
  • Winter tires offer significantly better traction on snow-covered or icy road surfaces at temperatures well below -30 C than all-season tires have at 4 C.