Jeff Iftekaruddin, a 30-year-old actor and musician, works as a rickshaw driver in New York City, where he pulls up to 600 pounds of tourists around Midtown, charging $40 for a 20-minute ride. Despite the physical demands, some people view rickshaw work as degrading. Iftekaruddin works for Shanghai Rickshaw, which operates five rickshaws in Times Square and Central Park, distinct from the more numerous pedicabs in the city.
Shanghai Rickshaw was inspired by rickshaws in Tokyo but had their models built in China for a lower cost. Co-owner Arty Nichols believes rickshaws could become a popular attraction in New York. Pullers, often immigrants, actors, or athletes, earn around $150 for a five-to-six-hour shift, with the appearance of difficulty often leading to generous tips from passengers.
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