Zipcar was founded in 2000 by Robin Chase and Antje Danielson to provide an alternative to car ownership through car sharing. They launched their first program in Boston in late 2000. Their initial business plan charged members application and security fees, as well as hourly and per-mile rates. During their first month of real operations, Zipcar found members took fewer trips than expected but used vehicles for longer hours, which helped offset increased overhead costs and positioned the business for positive growth.