Ruter expands “Hent” ridesharing service in Oslo to improve flexible transportation options

This fall, Ruter has piloted a new transportation service in Oslo known as “Hent,” and it is now expanding its availability. With “Hent,” users can be picked up wherever they are and taken to their destination. Johan Gjærum, acting director of market and business development at Ruter, noted that customers are seeking more flexible travel options, as current set routes lack flexibility for certain trips.

The service operates in a designated area east of the Akerselva River, covering neighborhoods from Nydalen to Rødtvet and between Kjelsås and Etterstad, where trips must start and end within these boundaries. Ruter’s app indicates if “Hent” is available in your location. A ride costs 50 Norwegian kroner for adults and 25 kroner for children, youth, and seniors. Passengers must be over 15 years old to book a ride.

Unlike a taxi service, which caters to individual needs by providing single passenger transport, “Hent” offers a ridesharing model where passengers share the vehicle with others traveling in the same direction. The service is available on weekdays from 3 PM to 10 PM and on weekends from 10 AM to 8 PM.

Oslo’s government aims to encourage more public transportation use, walking, and cycling. Marit Vea, the environment and transport commissioner, expressed hope that this initiative would reduce reliance on private vehicles. Håkon Snortheim, regional councilor for transport in Akershus, also supports the need for adaptable solutions to meet transit demands in areas that cannot support larger buses.

Ruter has allocated 20 million kroner for “Hent” in 2025, arguing that while the funding may seem modest, it is crucial for developing new public transport solutions alongside enhancing existing services.