Tech Driver’s $1.6 Billion Earnings Spark Public Outcry

Recent reports have sparked public debate over a Be ride-hailing driver generating over VND 1.6 billion in revenue within a year. Many speculated that such earnings would require an extremely demanding work schedule, potentially involving round-the-clock shifts.

Addressing the controversy, Be Vietnam clarified that the VND 1.6 billion figure represents the driver’s gross revenue on the platform, not their net income. This total encompasses earnings from beBike, beFood, and beDelivery services (excluding COD collections). Be Vietnam emphasized that averaging this revenue daily to infer 18-20 hour workdays misrepresents the platform’s operational model.

In a statement to Tien Phong, Be Vietnam affirmed that the announcement and recognition aimed to honor the driver’s dedication, resilience, and effective utilization of multiple services. The company denied using this as a misleading promotional tactic.

Investigations by Tien Phong reporters revealed the driver in question to be Mr. Pham D. T. (33, Ho Chi Minh City). Hailing from a challenging background, his family previously ran a vehicle business in the former Phu Nhuan District.

Economic hardships forced Mr. T. to abandon his business studies. He became the family’s primary provider, supporting his mother and two sisters.

Before joining the ride-hailing sector, Mr. T. held various jobs including bank card sales, food retail, karaoke receptionist, and YouTube content creation. Despite his efforts, these roles offered unstable income and rigid schedules, limiting his ability to address family emergencies.

Initially, ride-hailing was a side gig for Mr. T. However, its flexibility and income control led him to commit long-term. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he transitioned to full-time driving, relying on savings to navigate the crisis.

After three years as a ride-hailing driver, his family’s stability improved. His mother’s burden lessened, one sister married, and the youngest nears university graduation. With reduced family responsibilities, Mr. T. now focuses on personal future plans.

Mr. T. attributes his commitment to the profession to its collaborative nature. “It’s about creating value for customers and the platform, not just grinding. Planning and avoiding overexertion are key,” he stated.

He explained that his VND 1.6 billion revenue resulted from strategic planning and service selection, not excessive work. Averaging 8-9 hours daily, he earns approximately VND 500,000 (excluding bonuses) and prioritizes rest when needed.

Mr. T. balances services by transporting passengers during peak morning and afternoon hours, while focusing on food delivery at noon and night. Monitoring incentives, peak seasons, and regional demands optimizes his efficiency.

Responding to health trade-off concerns, Mr. T. stressed that outcomes depend on individual approaches. “Balancing income, time, and health is crucial for long-term sustainability,” he advised.