A rising trend known as “city ride” is captivating young women in major Chinese cities like Shanghai, Hangzhou, and Xiamen. For 99 yuan (approximately ₹1,200), women can enjoy luxurious evening car rides with charming young men who drive high-end vehicles. Dubbed “man bodhisattvas,” these drivers, often university students from affluent backgrounds, cruise in opulent cars such as Ferraris, Porsches, and Rolls-Royces.
One notable figure in this trend is a postgraduate student who goes by the moniker “Past as the Wind.” He offers rides in his Porsche for 88 yuan (around ₹1,050) and cultivates an amiable atmosphere, resembling that of a friend or boyfriend during the ride. As reported by the South China Morning Post, his booking group has gained nearly 400 members, reflecting significant interest in this unique service.
Participants appreciate not only the plush ride and the inviting scent of luxury cars but also the social interaction. The experience provides a blend of relaxation and opulence, offering an enticing way to unwind after a demanding workday. In Wuhan, for instance, a 24-year-old known as “Lemon Can” offers exhilarating Ferrari rides for 99 yuan for half an hour. A passionate racing enthusiast, he emphasizes that his clients can revel in the thrill of high-speed driving while also sharing their thoughts on stress and personal relationships.
Wang, who graduated from Fujian, is relatively new to this endeavor, having supported six women primarily on serene evening rides by the coast. “I believe a lot of people need this kind of support from strangers. A car can be a comforting space,” Wang explained, recounting an emotional encounter where one woman shed tears over a breakup and expressed gratitude with a hug. While concerns over safety arise-mainly regarding the possibility of drivers learning clients’ addresses-Wang reassures that bookings occur through a ride-hailing app, which tracks each journey.
Though he plans to transition to his family’s business soon, he is currently using this time to hone his driving skills and foster connections with others. For Wang, the car is not just a vehicle for speed; it serves as a refuge and a safe space for comfort and support. A satisfied client shared her anticipation for these city rides, eager to leave work and enjoy an engaging journey with a friendly driver in an exquisite car.
This phenomenon of seeking emotional connections with strangers is part of a larger global trend. In various regions, including India, individuals are increasingly finding solace in private interactions with unfamiliar companions. Professional cuddling, gaining traction post-COVID-19, exemplifies this shift. Many urban dwellers report feelings of loneliness, with a 2024 survey indicating that 53% of urban Indians endure daily stress and 25% experience prolonged low moods. Organizations like Cuddlist lead the way abroad, while Indian initiatives like CuddleBuddy and Jaadu Ki Jhappi are only beginning to emerge.
As urban lifestyles become more hectic, services like city rides provide individuals with the opportunity to blend relaxation with the thrill of luxury, offering a unique solution to the emotional void many are experiencing.
Original Source: https://www.livemint.com/news/world/porsche-hugs-and-a-long-drive-how-rides-with-strangers-in-luxury-cars-are-healing-broken-hearts-11749793745378.html
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Publish Date: 2025-06-13 11:38:00
