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Otto Life Stories #9: Dewan
To celebrate the diversity of the Otto family, we shine a spotlight on one driver’s cultural background in this series of interviews. Today, Dewan Choudhury reveals how to boost range and where to find the best Indian food in London.
How long have you been a PCO driver?
Five years – but that’s on and off. I’ve been driving full-time for one year.
What were you doing before that?
I was a sales supervisor for a company that would supply restaurants all over the UK but mostly in London. We sold spices, rice and that kind of stuff.
What did you learn in your old job that’s been helpful for your current work?
We used to deal with a lot of customers and Uber driving is basically the same thing. It’s about customer service.
At least you don’t have to negotiate with your customers these days.
That’s right. But you must still treat the riders like they are the customers. I see it as exactly the same thing because I’m from a service background.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given as a PCO driver?
Don’t take it personally, even if a situation gets difficult. It will make everything easier if you remember that it’s never personal.
You are the most efficient driver in the Otto Car family. How does that feel?
It’s really great because I didn’t know that I drive so well. It builds up my confidence and stuff. Thank you.
What’s your secret to get maximum range in terms of how you drive?
I always stick to the rules and follow the speed limits. I don’t rush.
There must be more to it than that?
It’s all about smoother driving and keeping your speed even.
Does that involve watching the road further ahead than just the car in front to see what’s coming?
Exactly. I try not to do much acceleration or braking – and that’s a good way to achieve this goal.
Do you mostly stick to urban driving or will you take motorway routes?
My working life is mixed. Whenever I get a job, I just go there next and it takes me everywhere.
I see you are driving an MG5. How do you find the range in this car?
It works well for me. I have to charge every day but it does last a whole day.
Do you have a charger at home?
No, I use public charging points and it’s OK. Sometimes I have to wait if I go somewhere busy. This is part of my lifestyle now and it’s better to accept it.
And how have things been with Otto Car? You can be honest.
I’m on a Rent 2 Buy + deal with Otto Car which is good. I don’t find any difficulties. In fact, it’s more than OK and everyone is nice.
Looking back, do you wish you had gone full-time in PCO driving sooner?
Not really. This is the right time for me because I need to spend more time with my family. I have four kids aged under seven.
Oh wow. You really are a busy man.
Now you’ve got it. I have to think about them always – and this job gives me the flexibility to do so. That’s the main thing.
Can you suggest the best place to try food that celebrates your own culture?
You mean Indian food? This is a hard one as there are so many of them.
That’s true but you worked in the Indian food industry. What’s your hot tip?
I like the chicken biryani at Holy Cow – they have branches all over London. If you want to experiment, try the amazing buffet at Royal Nawaab in Perivale.
What is your ambition for the year ahead?
To be a good driver – and happy. That’s it. My life is simple. Very simple.
Want to learn more?
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