Winter tires should become more affordable for drivers in Manitoba, Canada. Jennifer Howard, Manitoba finance minister, announced that Manitoba Public Insurance (MPI) intends to introduce a low-cost loan program to make it easier for drivers to buy high-traction winter tires.

“We know winter tires can help reduce collisions on Manitoba roads and make families safer,” a Manitoba government source said. “But we also know the cost of winter tires prevents some from making this purchase.”

Winter tires are not mandatory in Manitoba nor does the government plan to make them required for drivers. The government source said the state prefers to offer incentives to buy winter tires. According to the government source, details of the MPI program will be announced at a later date.

The Ontario-based Rubber Association of Canada, which represents 14 tiremakers, has said Manitoba drivers lag behind the nation in switching to winter tires, with only 20% of the province’s motorists opting in. A set of four winter tires on average costs about $1,000. Quebec is the only province with legislation that makes winter tires mandatory.