Introduction
Xtraveler, based in Minato-ku, Tokyo, has announced a significant leap towards the concept of owning a vehicle for zero yen. With East Ventures leading the seed round, plus investments from Gaiax and other individuals, the company successfully raised around 25 million yen, bringing its total funding to 37 million yen.
Background of the Funding
In Japan, the utilization rate of private cars hovers around a mere 4%. This means that 96% of the time, these vehicles are parked and not in use. Coupled with the ever-increasing prices of both new and used cars, the barriers—both psychological and economic—for users to own a vehicle have become more pronounced each year. The ongoing financial burden due to insurance, taxes, and parking fees, often summing up to tens of thousands of yen monthly, adds to this challenge.
Against this pressing backdrop, Xtraveler’s initiative, PorShare, aims to mitigate these costs. The platform allows users to rent out their own cars during unutilized time, compensating for monthly maintenance costs and loan repayments through shared revenue. Thus, users can drastically lower their effective ownership costs, creating what they term the “zero yen car.”
Owning a vehicle transforms from a burdensome expense into a valuable asset. The choice to purchase a vehicle one loves, and then share it to manage upkeep costs, represents a smart and rational approach to vehicle ownership. Every car contributes to the development of social infrastructure that supports personal mobility.
Overview of PorShare
PorShare is a specialized car-sharing platform focused on Porsche vehicles. Owners can lend their cars to other drivers on days when they are not being used, allowing them to compensate for maintenance and loan costs through shared revenue, making Porsche ownership practically cost-free.
Since its soft launch in March 2025, PorShare has seen over 1,500 registrations on its official LINE account, with more than 50 shares conducted. Several owners have begun earning sufficient income to cover their monthly maintenance fees. The response from both users and vehicle owners has been overwhelmingly positive due to its practicality.
For more on PorShare, check out the platform's detailed offerings.
Use of Funds and Future Developments
The funds raised will enhance service functionalities and expand Xtraveler’s business footprint. In addition to its Porsche-focused car-sharing model, the company plans to broaden the “zero yen car” concept to include more accessible vehicle types, such as minivans, catering to a more diverse customer base.
To ensure a seamless and secure experience for both owners and drivers, Xtraveler is in the process of developing a dedicated application that will incorporate eKYC (online identity verification) and efficient management features for rentals and returns. This will create a secure environment for owners to share their prized vehicles with confidence.
Moreover, the company aims not just to facilitate car-sharing but also to provide a comprehensive support system for buying and selling used cars. For owners considering purchasing a vehicle meant for sharing or those contemplating an upgrade, Xtraveler will offer assistance that includes revenue simulations and consolidated buying and selling support.
Their mission is to redefine the car ownership experience, rendering it no longer a burden but a liberated choice for consumers while steadily updating societal norms surrounding vehicle use.
Comments from the CEO
Kota Sekine, CEO of Xtraveler, shared his passion for cars, stating, "I have always loved cars and own a Porsche myself. However, I find that I only drive it a few days each month, leaving it parked for the rest. This realization prompted me to seek a more rational and passionate way to engage with my beloved vehicle. PorShare was born out of that necessity. Cars can create more value not only by being driven but also through a sharing mechanism. Ultimately, creating a culture that embraces sharing will allow more individuals to enjoy their favorite vehicles. I aim to expand the option of buying cars with sharing in mind, thereby giving back to the car-loving community."
Investor Insights
From East Ventures, Principal Yuya Murakami expressed his initial reservations about entering a complex field but was notably impressed by Sekine's thorough field research and innovative ideas, including the “zero yen” concept. He believes that this service will appeal even as automation in vehicles escalates.
Sasaki Yoshinori, an executive officer at Gaiax, sees Xtraveler's model as potentially revolutionary amid declining vehicle ownership rates in Japan. He anticipates that this new sharing approach will redefine the future of personal mobility.
Additionally, investor Hiroshi Hirowatari praised Sekine's exemplary leadership and envisioned PorShare as a perfect fit for Sekine’s entrepreneurial prowess and his deep understanding of car culture.
Call for Vehicle Owners
Currently, PorShare is on the lookout for Porsche owners as well as SUV, EV, and minivan owners interested in participating in this expanding platform. Those interested can reserve a spot for an online briefing session through the link below.
[Reserve your spot for the briefing session here]
Company Overview
- - Name: Xtraveler Inc.
- - Founded: October 2019
- - CEO: Kota Sekine
- - Capital: 37 million yen (including capital reserves)
- - Business: Car-sharing platform operations / Used car sales and purchase support
- - Location: 1-7-12, Minami Aoyama, Minato-ku, Tokyo
- - Website: Xtraveler Official
Contact Information
For any inquiries, please reach out to:
info@xtraveler.jp