Turn a ride-hail car into a mobile bookshop, as seen in Brazil

The idea

The car becomes a small bookshop on wheels. You drive for a ride-hail app, and during the trip you tell the passenger about a book you wrote or stock, then sell it on the spot.

This is done by Beto Ambrosio, a photographer, cycle traveller and writer in Brazil. He started in late 2022 because his sales came mostly from talks, events and the internet, and he realised each passenger meant a few minutes of conversation. His main title, Fé Latina, tells the story of his bike journey through 17 countries. He says it sells three to five copies a day in the car, with a record of 13, and that books account for about 80% of what he earns on the app. He reports roughly R$500,000 (about $90,000) in four years from books and rides combined. He sells a hardback for about R$130 (around $24) and a lighter edition for R$69.90 (around $13).

Who it fits

Anyone who already drives, or can, and is comfortable talking to strangers. You need a car, a phone and a book with a story. It can be your own book or a small selection from local publishers. It works beside a job, because you simply add the pitch to the hours you already drive. The same model could work with taxi drivers, airport transfers or tour drivers anywhere, especially where cards or QR payments are common.

Costs and revenue

The figures below are editorial estimates, not the source's.

• Stock of 100–300 books at print or wholesale cost: roughly $500–2,500.
• A box for the back seat, a card reader or QR code, and receipts: under $100.

If you sell three to five books a day at $13–24, expect around $40–120 of daily book revenue, so roughly $800–2,400 a month before costs on 20 working days. Ride income comes on top. Margin depends on your print or wholesale price.

Risks and pitfalls

• Platform rules. Some apps limit commercial activity in the car. Read the terms and keep the pitch light.
• Annoying passengers. Many will say no. Ask once, never push, and let the book sit visible.
• Dead stock. A large print run ties up cash. Start small and reprint only what sells.
• Local rules. Street and vehicle sales may need a business registration and proper receipts.
• Bad days. Ambrosio says he learned patience, because sales swing between good and bad days. Keep other income running.