Luxury Car Rides: Healing Broken Hearts in Chinese Cities
A new trend called ‘city ride’ is gaining popularity among young women in Chinese cities like Shanghai, Hangzhou, and Xiamen. For approximately ₹1,200 (99 yuan), women can enjoy evening car rides with fit, attractive young men driving luxury cars such as Ferraris, Porsches, and Rolls-Royces. These men, often referred to as ‘man bodhisattvas,’ are typically affluent university students who provide more than just a ride – they offer comfort, companionship, and a listening ear.
One such individual, known online as ‘Past as the Wind,’ is a postgraduate student who drives a Porsche. He charges 88 yuan (₹1,050) per ride and has garnered a booking group with nearly 400 members. During the rides, he acts as a friend, boyfriend, or even a butler, ensuring the experience is both luxurious and comforting. Women appreciate the smooth ride, the pleasant car interior, and his friendly demeanor, making it a unique way to unwind after a long day at work.
In Wuhan, a 24-year-old man nicknamed ‘Lemon Can’ offers 30-minute Ferrari rides for 99 yuan. As a racing enthusiast, he believes that his car can provide not only the thrill of speed but also a safe space for people to share their feelings about stress or relationships. Wang, a graduate from Fujian, has served six women so far, mostly for peaceful evening drives by the sea. One woman even cried for half an hour after a breakup and thanked him with a hug.
The trend is not without its concerns, particularly regarding safety, as drivers might learn women’s addresses. However, Wang assures that bookings are made through a ride-hailing app that tracks every journey, alleviating some of these concerns. For Wang, the car is not just a vehicle for speed but also a place for comfort and support. He plans to join his family business soon but is currently using this opportunity to practice driving and connect with others.
This ‘city ride’ trend is part of a broader global phenomenon where people are seeking emotional connections with strangers in private settings. Professional cuddling, for instance, has been popular in other countries and is slowly gaining traction in India post-COVID-19. With 53% of urban Indians facing daily stress and 25% feeling low for weeks, according to a 2024 survey, such trends indicate a growing need for comfort and companionship in increasingly busy and isolating urban environments.
As this trend continues to grow, it raises interesting questions about the intersection of luxury, companionship, and emotional healing in modern urban life.
