Associates with SLC3A1/rBAT to form a functional heterodimeric complex that transports anionic and neutral amino acids across the apical plasma membrane of renal epithelium. Preferentially mediates exchange transport, but can also operate via facilitated diffusion. May act as a major transporter for L-cystine in late proximal tubules, ensuring its reabsorption from the luminal fluid in exchange for cytosolic L-glutamate or L-aspartate. . This is the function of SLC7A13 (solute carrier family 7 member 13, Ensembl gene identifier ENSG00000164893).