Apr 1, 2009 12:00 PM

New-generation wide single truck tires, including Michelin X One tires, are now approved for use across Canada. The Council of Ministers Responsible for Transportation and Highway Safety has approved amendments to Canada's Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Vehicle Weights and Dimensions that redefine weight limits and track width requirements for new-generation wide-base single tires.

These changes, which took effect July 1, 2008, will establish requirements for trucks that are consistent with United States regulations and will allow trucks and trailers equipped with wide-base tires to operate from coast-to-coast and move freely between both nations.

The new rules apply to tires used on drive axles with a width of 445 mm or more. New weight allowances call for loads not to exceed 7,700 kg for single-axle vehicles and 15,400 kg for tandem-axle groups. To allow trailers to be safely retrofitted with wide single tires, the minimum track width requirement of 2.5 meters has been reduced to 2.3 meters for trailers built in 2007 or earlier. Michelin X One tires are designed for drive and trailer wheel positions.

Rules will be in effect for all Canadian provinces, with three exceptions. These pertain to the Northwest Territories, secondary roads in Newfoundland and Labrador, and roads in New Brunswick, depending on highway classification.