Manitoba Public Insurance (MPI) says automated cars "far off in the future" but they are preparing policies in anticipation.

Features such as blind-spot detection and self-parking are all considered to be automated features permitted in Manitoba, but new legislation that was introduced today could allow the testing of other automation on Manitoban roads.

Total automation may still be in the beginning stages, Brian Smiley from MPI says that they are looking at new policies in anticipation of future vehicle advancements.

He adds that we are "very early in the game" but various types of autonomous features are currently on the road in Manitoba. Currently, drivers are responsible if using automated features on the vehicle.

"A driver is using parallel parking or backup assistance and they got into a collision, the driver would be at fault," Smiley says.

Smiley adds that as the technology is developed MPI will have a better idea of how to determine the driver's accountability while using these features.

The province says that new regulations will need to be developed before automated vehicles can be tested on Manitoban roads.

“Numerous vehicle technologies are in development and ready for testing, creating opportunities for Manitoba-based business,” Infrastructure Minister Ron Schuler says. 

The province hopes that by allowing testing on roads, more businesses will consider Manitoba for its operations.