The Ontario Ministry of Transportation is under way with its pilot program for long combination vehicles
. The province began initial operations on the project on Aug. 5, issuing permits to seven of the 50 participant carriers.

In May, Ontario announced the pilot program, which was designed to allow a limited number of commercial operators to pull two full-sized trailers on designated Ontario highways. As a result of carrier interest in the program, the ministry expects to issue up to 100 permits for the long combination vehicles over a one-year period.

Long combination vehicles can now be found driving the Toronto-Montreal corridor with stops in Vaughan, Kingston and Cornwall.

"We are taking a careful look at LCVs to test their economic and environmental benefits," said Bob Nichols, senior media liaison officer at the ministry. "Many other provinces have successfully permitted operating LCVs for years. This program is part of our harmonization efforts with Quebec and part of our strategy to remain economically competitive."

The agency is working closely with the Ontario Provincial Police to make sure the vehicles are safe for others on the road.