Discover how Japan’s Gen Z is swapping costly ownership for shared supercar experiences, driving Ferraris and Porsches through the Rendez‑Vous service. Learn more!
Owning a supercar—especially a brand‑new Ferrari—remains out of reach for most young Japanese drivers. To bridge the gap, a home‑grown startup called Rendez‑Vous has introduced a subscription‑style model that lets friends pool resources and share a high‑performance vehicle.
How the Rendez‑Vous Model Works
Instead of buying a car outright, a group of up to five members each pays a share of the vehicle’s depreciation, insurance, maintenance, parking and taxes. In return, every participant gets exclusive access for a set number of days each year. For example, 24‑year‑old Kanji Hiraiwa now co‑owns a Ferrari 360 Modena and can drive it for 50 days annually.
Cost Breakdown
Imagine a supercar purchased for ¥20 million (about $126,000) that depreciates to ¥17 million after one year. The group covers the ¥3 million (≈$18,900) depreciation gap, which translates to roughly ¥600,000 ($3,800) per person for the year, plus the shared operating fees. Compared with a full purchase, the subscription is dramatically cheaper and eliminates the need for a large upfront loan.
Why It Resonates with Gen Z
Rendez‑Vous reports a waiting list of around 3,500 eager drivers, underscoring a growing appetite for flexible mobility. Ryota Asaoka, a spokesperson for the company, notes, “Car ownership costs are too high for people in their 20s. We want to lower the financial barrier so they can simply enjoy driving.”
A recent survey found that 33% of Japanese 20‑year‑olds show little interest in owning a car at all. Toyota’s own research points to purchase price and ongoing maintenance as primary deterrents. Shared ownership offers a pragmatic alternative that aligns with the generation’s experience‑first mindset.
Beyond Supercars: Other Shared‑Mobility Options
Rendez‑Vous focuses on pre‑owned luxury and classic models—from 1950s collectibles to modern hypercars. Meanwhile, platforms like DriveShare enable peer‑to‑peer rentals, expanding the ecosystem of car‑sharing solutions across Japan.
The Future of Car Ownership in Japan
For Japan’s Gen Z, the traditional notion of owning a vehicle is shifting toward access and experience. Whether it’s a weekend spin in a Ferrari or a daily commute in a compact hatchback, the key is flexibility. Shared‑ownership models like Rendez‑Vous illustrate how the industry can adapt to changing consumer values while keeping the thrill of the open road alive.
Ready to try a supercar without the hefty price tag? Explore the latest offerings from Rendez‑Vous and join the movement reshaping automotive culture in Japan.