Innovative Car Subscription Model: FlexClub Offers New Flexibility for South African Drivers
In a world where flexibility and convenience are key to modern living, traditional car ownership may no longer be the most appealing option. Enter FlexClub, a unique platform designed to make car ownership more accessible, simple, and adaptable to individual needs. Recently, we spoke with Tinashe Ruzane, CEO and Co-Founder of FlexClub, to delve into how this innovative service is revolutionizing the automotive industry in South Africa.
The FlexClub Concept
FlexClub was born out of a desire to offer people more flexible access to new cars, especially for those who have found traditional car loans restrictive or unattainable. Tinashe explains that the company identified a gap in the market where car loans often trap individuals into long-term commitments, leaving them with little control over their finances.
“FlexClub is designed to unlock flexibility for South Africans,” says Tinashe. “We empower our members to access new vehicles conveniently, allowing them to maintain control of their finances. Unlike traditional car loans, our subscriptions offer flexibility without the long-term commitment.”
Inspired by the success of car subscription models in Europe and the United States, FlexClub offers users the ability to access newer cars without the hassle of rigid contracts or complex financing agreements. It’s a modern solution that puts control back into the hands of the consumer.
Pay-As-You-Go Flexibility
One of the standout features of FlexClub is the *pay-as-you-go model*. This approach offers users the flexibility to only pay for what they need, in a similar manner to prepaid cell phone plans. “The democratization of telecoms really happened when prepaid came into the market,” Tinashe notes. “It put control back in the hands of the consumer, and that’s what we’re doing with cars.”
By partnering with major rental brands like Avis and Budget, FlexClub has built a nationwide pay-as-you-go network with more than 20,000 vehicles across 70 locations in South Africa. Customers can choose how long they want a car, and if their needs change, they can adjust their plan accordingly. Whether it’s a short-term rental or a longer-term solution, FlexClub is about giving consumers the freedom to choose what works best for them.
Catering to a Wide Market
When asked about FlexClub’s target audience, Tinashe explains that the service is designed to accommodate a wide range of people. “We serve a broad spectrum of customers who value simplicity, control, and flexibility,” he says. For instance, someone fresh out of university who hasn’t built a credit score can benefit from FlexClub’s offerings just as easily as a seasoned professional who frequently travels between cities.
Interestingly, even higher-income individuals have embraced the flexibility of pay-as-you-go. “It’s not just about your economic position; it’s about your lifestyle and what you need from a
car. Whether it’s simplicity or control, our service appeals to different people for different reasons,” Tinashe explains.
The Future of Car Ownership
FlexClub’s approach is undeniably a challenge to the traditional car ownership model. While there has been some resistance from traditional players in the industry, there is also significant interest. Many manufacturers and car rental companies are beginning to explore subscription models themselves. Brands like Toyota, Volvo, and BMW are now offering similar services, which indicates a shift in consumer behaviour.
“The modern consumer is no longer obsessed with ownership,” Tinashe explains. “We see this in other areas of life, such as housing, where people prefer to rent rather than buy. It’s about access and flexibility, not just ownership.”
How It Works
Perhaps one of the most appealing aspects of FlexClub is its simplicity. There’s no need to download an app—everything is handled online. Consumers can build their car subscription plan through FlexClub’s website in four simple steps: choose a vehicle, select the duration of the plan, decide where to pick up the car, and top up their account.
Once the plan is in place, it operates on a pay-as-you-go basis, allowing consumers to top up their account every 30 days. If a customer no longer needs the car, they can return it before the next top-up is due.
Every plan includes insurance and maintenance, making it a no-hassle option for users. In addition, cars can be delivered directly to a customer’s location for added convenience.
A New Era in Mobility
As FlexClub continues to grow, Tinashe is excited about the future. “We’re at the beginning of a journey that will reshape mobility and travel,” he says. The company’s model is especially attractive to travellers and long-term visitors, who may not be able to get traditional car loans but still need reliable vehicles during their stay.
“We’ve seen the service grow at an astronomical rate, with our base expanding by over 40% each month,” Tinashe reveals. “It’s clear that people are waking up to the idea that there are other possibilities out there.”
Final Thoughts
FlexClub’s innovative subscription model is redefining car ownership for South Africans, offering a more flexible, accessible, and convenient alternative. Whether you’re a frequent traveller, a young professional, or someone simply looking for a better way to manage your transportation needs, FlexClub has a plan that works for you.
As Tinashe aptly puts it, “We’re excited to continue building a service that puts control back in the hands of consumers, helping them access the car of their dreams without the complications of traditional ownership.”
