The Long Combination Vehicle (LCV) Program supports the efficient movement of goods across the province and beyond.
A typical LCV is up to 40 metres long, consisting of a tractor pulling two full-length semitrailers. A standard LCV replaces two 23-metre tractor-trailers.
MTO gradually introduced LCVs onto Ontario roadways by issuing a limited number of permits to a limited number of carriers. This has allowed for a carefully controlled and closely monitored program as part of an effort to build a stronger, greener economy.
The Canada Safety Council reports that LCVs are involved in at least 40% fewer collisions than regular tractor-trailers.
Economic Benefits
- LCVs are good for manufacturers and consumers. They allow Ontario retailers and manufacturers to bring light-weight, bulky goods to market at a lower cost.
Environmental Benefits
- By using less fuel to carry goods, LCVs reduce the greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs) associated with shipping goods by approximately one-third.
Safety
- LCVs have been on the road in Western Canada, Quebec, and numerous American states for decades. They have an excellent safety record, with fewer collisions reported than single-trailer trucks.
- A major study of LCV operations in Alberta showed that LCVs of the type allowed in Ontario had 60 per cent fewer collisions than the conventional tractor-trailers they replace.
- As each LCV replaces two conventional tractor-trailers, the number of collisions is expected to be reduced by 80% as compared to moving the same freight by conventional tractor-trailer.
Requirements and Restrictions
Rules for LCVs include that they:
- Can only operate on designated divided highways (primarily 400-series highways).
- Can only access destination terminals within two kilometres of highway interchanges, and only if routes have been carefully assessed and approved.
- Must have special safety equipment, including enhanced braking requirements and an electronic stability control system.
- May not drive in or through the Greater Toronto Area or the City of Ottawa during rush hours.
- May not carry more weight than existing multi-axle tractor-trailers.
- May not operate at the start and end of long weekends.
- May not carry dangerous goods that would require a warning on the vehicle's exterior.
- May not carry livestock.
- Must avoid driving in bad weather or slippery conditions.
- May not exceed 90km/hr.
Special requirements for LCV drivers include that they:
- Must be experienced tractor-trailer operators with a good safety record.
- Must obtain and carry an LCV Driver’s Certificate based on specialized and comprehensive training and road testing.
Learn more about the LCV program
- Read the Ontario LCV Program Conditions
- LCV Program - Primary Network Maps (PDF - 1633 KB)
- LCV Program – Rest/Emergency Stops - Maps
- LCV Program Questions and Answers
- Find LCV Permit and Origin/Destination application forms
