Distance-based Road User Charging (RUC) has been successfully deployed for truck tolling in many countries, but extending these systems to private passenger cars presents challenges such as cost, installation complexity, physical appearance, and privacy concerns. Q-Free, in collaboration with the Norwegian Public Roads Administration, SINTEF, and SkyttelPASS, is addressing these challenges through the RUC project, a groundbreaking concept for distance-based RUC featuring a small, battery-powered, cable-free device designed with strong privacy protections.

This presentation will outline the project's background, privacy framework, and operational model from both consumer and toll operator perspectives. A 3,000-vehicle pilot will launch in Bergen in 2026, complementing the city's existing DSRC-based congestion charging system and supporting Norway's urban mobility goal of zero growth in passenger car traffic. The pilot will evaluate user acceptance, toll accuracy, and integration with current tolling schemes.

Beyond Bergen, Oslo plans a pilot under the GRØNNBY initiative, Norway's flagship green mobility project aimed at cutting 95% of direct emissions by 2030. Funded by the Research Council of Norway, GRØNNBY exemplifies public-private collaboration, combining Q-Free's RUC solution with modular travel subscriptions and AI-based traffic management. These efforts will enable cities to adopt smarter mobility strategies while meeting ambitious climate targets.

RUC is more than a tolling mechanism, it is a key enabler for sustainable urban transport. This session will explore how innovative technology and cross-sector partnerships can transform mobility and accelerate the green transition.