Airport Chauffeur Vancouver

Airport Chauffeur Vancouver

Executive Car Service

If you're all about online convenience, their website is your go-to. Need Wi-Fi to stay connected, a specific type of music to set the mood, or refreshments to enjoy on the way? Private Executive Car Learn more about Airport Chauffeur Vancouver here Your journey to the cruise terminal or ferry port deserves to be as spectacular as your destination. Picture a serene moment at the base of a towering mountain or a quiet walk through a lush forest, moments crafted just for you. And with a closer look at what awaits upon arrival, it's clear this isn't an opportunity to merely move, but to be moved in ways you've yet to imagine.
Banff Transport goes beyond standard transportation by offering services customized to your unique needs and preferences. Families appreciate the hassle-free aspect, with one parent noting, 'Traveling with kids can be challenging, but the spacious vehicle and the entertainment options kept them engaged and happy throughout the journey.' It's clear that our service isn't just about getting you from point A to B; it's about making the journey as enjoyable and comfortable as the destination itself. Whether you're planning a family getaway to unseen natural wonders or organizing a group trip to bustling city events, Banff Transport's future routes will cater to your adventurous spirit. For those looking for a bit more, there are also luxury packages that include amenities such as complimentary beverages, extended wait times, and flexible scheduling.
Want to surprise your partner with a romantic ride complete with champagne and flowers? Banff Transport takes pride in their chauffeurs' ability to provide a seamless, stress-free travel experience.

Airport Limo

  • Luxury Car Service
  • Corporate Car Service
  • Luxury Chauffeur Service
  • Corporate Shuttle
  • Luxury Travel Service
  • Luxury Wedding Transport
  • Executive Chauffeur
  • Luxury Town Car
  • Luxury Hotel Shuttle
  • Luxury Limousine
  • Luxury City Tour
  • Limousine Rental
  • Luxury Ride
  • VIP Travel Service
  • Luxury Sedan Service
  • Private Car Service
It turned a long drive into a delightful experience.' Learn more about Banff Transport here. This kind of feedback is common, underscoring our commitment to providing a top-tier travel experience. What sets them apart?
There's ample legroom, ensuring you arrive as refreshed as when you set off. And it doesn't stop at the vehicle type. After selecting your preferred vehicle, the next phase is confirming your reservation.

Executive Limo

  • Luxury Ride Share
  • Private Event Transportation
  • Private Chauffeur
  • High-End Chauffeur
  • Luxury Transportation Company
  • Executive Car Service
  • Luxury Fleet
  • Luxury Party Bus
  • Luxury Event Transportation
  • VIP Airport Pickup
  • Private VIP Car Service
  • Executive Transportation
  • Luxury Airport Shuttle
  • Luxury Travel Transportation
  • Luxury SUV Rental
  • Luxury Corporate Travel
  • Luxury Transfer Service
Luxury vans are available, designed to cater to the needs of bigger parties without compromising on comfort or style.

Upon reaching Banff, you'll be greeted by its stunning mountain vistas and quaint town charm, setting the stage for an unforgettable adventure. You'll bypass the crowds and the stress of navigating on your own, focusing instead on the breathtaking views and vibrant culture that define this coastal city.

Luxury Wedding Transport

  1. Executive Van Service
  2. Private Executive Car
  3. Luxury Car Rental
  4. Corporate Executive Transport
  5. VIP Transportation
  6. Luxury Group Transportation
  7. Luxury Travel Concierge
  8. VIP Limo
  9. High-End Car Service
  10. Luxury Sedan Rental
  11. Luxury Private Coach
  12. Business Transportation
  13. VIP Car Service
  14. Executive Limo
  15. Luxury Travel Service
  16. Luxury Wedding Transport
  17. Executive Chauffeur
  18. Luxury Town Car
  19. Luxury Hotel Shuttle
They're also transparent about pricing, so you'll know exactly what you're paying for without any surprises. From customized family packages that consider the littlest travelers to group travel solutions that ensure everyone's comfort and enjoyment, this service is setting a new standard.

Diving deeper, you'll find that each service isn't just about transportation; it's about creating memorable experiences. This personalized approach guarantees not just satisfaction but a journey that feels uniquely yours, transforming ordinary trips into unforgettable experiences. Selecting the right vehicle for your luxury trip from Vancouver Airport to Banff is crucial to ensuring your journey is as comfortable and stylish as you envision.

You don't need to navigate through complicated websites or deal with lengthy phone calls. You're dealing with professionals who know the importance of punctuality, discretion, and personalized attention. But that's not all.

Moreover, their professional chauffeurs are trained to provide exceptional service, making sure your event transportation is seamless and stress-free. In essence, Banff Transport's service is designed to elevate your travel experience. They even added thoughtful touches to make our trip extra special.

Citations and other links

Executive Travel Car Service Vancouver

It's not just about sitting back; it's about immersing yourself in an environment where every detail caters to your comfort and convenience.

Luxury Car Rental

  • Luxury Limousine
  • Luxury City Tour
  • Limousine Rental
  • Luxury Ride
  • VIP Travel Service
  • Luxury Sedan Service
  • Private Car Service
  • Luxury Ground Transportation
  • Luxury Prom Limo
  • Business Executive Shuttle
  • Private Airport Transfer
  • Luxury Airport Pickup
  • Private Luxury Car
  • Premium Limo Service
  • Private Limo
  • Luxury Ride Share
  • Private Event Transportation
  • Private Chauffeur
  • High-End Chauffeur
  • Luxury Transportation Company
This ensures you're only paying for the space and amenities your group requires, without unnecessary costs. At Banff Transport, we understand that peace of mind is priceless, especially when you're traveling for the holidays. This year, make your holiday travel not just manageable, but truly memorable.

It's where luxury meets personalization, setting a new benchmark for what you'll come to expect from private transportation. You're treated to an assortment of top-tier amenities that set Banff Transport apart. The commitment to your comfort and privacy is evident in every detail, from the moment you're greeted by your professional chauffeur to your arrival at your destination.

As you sink into plush seats and gaze through tinted windows at the passing cityscape, you'll appreciate the difference attention to detail makes. Instead, Banff Transport listens closely to your preferences, ensuring your journey is as comfortable and efficient as possible. With Banff Transport, luxury transportation doesn't have to be a luxury expense.

Your journey to Banff becomes part of the adventure itself. With Banff Transport, you're not just getting from point A to B; you're embarking on a curated adventure tailored just for you. Luxury Wedding Transport Dive into a journey uniquely yours with our tailored itineraries, designed to match your personal interests and schedule.

Executive Travel Car Service Vancouver
Luxury Coach Rental Vancouver

Luxury Coach Rental Vancouver

Understanding the broad coverage and flexibility of our services, let's now explore the pricing and packages available to suit your travel needs. Picture the freedom of stopping by a serene lake or capturing the perfect sunrise, all on your terms. You can add special touches such as onboard entertainment for the kids, snacks and refreshments tailored to your family's tastes, and even stopovers at popular attractions along the way. These buses aren't only a greener alternative but also provide a unique opportunity to enjoy scenic views without worrying about parking or navigating through crowded areas. Just like a fine wine transforms an ordinary meal into a culinary adventure, Banff Transport's luxury private transportation service from Vancouver to Banff promises to elevate your travel experience from mere transit to an elegant journey.

Moreover, the professionalism of Banff Transport's drivers sets them apart. You're in safe hands, as their commitment to your health extends beyond the vehicle's cleanliness. Their team is dedicated to making your family's travel as enjoyable and stress-free as possible, tailoring every aspect of the service to meet your specific desires and needs. Securing your spot for a luxurious journey with Banff Transport is a straightforward process, ensuring you and your group can enjoy top-notch transportation without any hassle.

Luxury Wedding Transport

  • Luxury Airport Shuttle
  • Luxury Travel Transportation
  • Luxury SUV Rental
  • Luxury Corporate Travel
  • Luxury Transfer Service
  • Private Chauffeured Van
  • Private SUV Transportation
  • Airport Transfer
  • Luxury Hotel Transfer
  • Luxury Event Car Service
  • Luxury Night Out Transport
  • Luxury Limousine Rental
  • High-End Shuttle
  • Private Minivan Service
  • Luxury Van Service
  • Luxury Car Hire


Safety's also a top priority, with each vehicle equipped with the latest safety features to ensure your peace of mind. Understanding your unique travel needs, Banff Transport offers personalized travel plans tailored specifically for you. It felt like our vacation started the moment we were picked up.'And it's not just about the comfort and the luxury. The beauty of opting for a private service lies in the flexibility to stop and fully soak in these breathtaking landscapes.

As we peel back the layers on what makes this offering a must for discerning travelers, you'll find compelling customer testimonials that speak volumes of its value. Moreover, their customer service is just a click or call away, ready to assist with any inquiries or special requests. Moreover, booking and rescheduling are made simple.

Luxury Group Transportation

  • VIP Car Service
  • Executive Limo
  • Luxury Travel Service
  • Luxury Wedding Transport
  • Executive Chauffeur
  • Luxury Town Car
  • Luxury Hotel Shuttle
  • Luxury Limousine
  • Luxury City Tour
  • Limousine Rental
  • Luxury Ride
  • VIP Travel Service
  • Luxury Sedan Service
  • Private Car Service
  • Luxury Ground Transportation
  • Luxury Prom Limo
  • Business Executive Shuttle
  • Private Airport Transfer
You can select your preferred type of music, specify the car temperature, or request specific amenities like bottled water, snacks, or even a particular type of car seat for your little ones.

Luxury Car Rental Luxury Travel Concierge

Private Chauffeur for Special Events Vancouver

They're not just behind the wheel; they're your concierges on the road, ready to adapt the journey to your needs and preferences. This flexibility ensures that whether you're looking for a simple airport transfer or a more elaborate travel arrangement, you'll get the best value for your money. Each vehicle is meticulously maintained and equipped with top-notch amenities to enhance your travel experience. Each vehicle is equipped with child safety seats upon request, ensuring the little ones are secure and comfortable throughout the journey. Before you step in, rest assured that your ride has been meticulously prepared to meet the highest standards of hygiene and mechanical performance.

Whether you're eager to hit the hiking trails, explore the turquoise waters of Lake Louise, or simply soak in the natural beauty, you're in the right place. They offer the freedom to cover more ground than on foot, without contributing to carbon emissions.

VIP Car Service

  • VIP Airport Pickup
  • Private VIP Car Service
  • Executive Transportation
  • Luxury Airport Shuttle
  • Luxury Travel Transportation
  • Luxury SUV Rental
  • Luxury Corporate Travel
  • Luxury Transfer Service
  • Private Chauffeured Van
  • Private SUV Transportation
  • Airport Transfer
  • Luxury Hotel Transfer
  • Luxury Event Car Service
  • Luxury Night Out Transport
  • Luxury Limousine Rental
  • High-End Shuttle
  • Private Minivan Service
Summer is peak season, offering long days and plenty of sunshine.

Corporate Executive Transport

  1. Luxury Ground Transportation
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  3. Business Executive Shuttle
  4. Private Airport Transfer
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  6. Private Luxury Car
  7. Premium Limo Service
  8. Private Limo
  9. Luxury Ride Share
  10. Private Event Transportation
  11. Private Chauffeur
  12. High-End Chauffeur
  13. Luxury Transportation Company
  14. Executive Car Service
  15. Luxury Fleet
  16. Luxury Party Bus
  17. Luxury Event Transportation
  18. VIP Airport Pickup
These testimonials underline Banff Transport's commitment to delivering a high-quality, personalized service.

You get to enjoy high-end comfort, exceptional service, and peace of mind, all without stretching your budget. Let's take care of the driving, so you can immerse yourself in the joy and splendor of the season. Whether you're a local or a visitor, they've got the expertise to transform your travel into an effortless, premium experience. Banff Transport's fleet epitomizes luxury, ensuring each ride surpasses your expectations with unparalleled comfort and style.

That's why we offer customizable packages to fit your specific needs. With Banff Transport, it's not just a journey; it's an experience that elevates your travel to an art form. VIP Limo Their chauffeur was courteous, the ride was smooth, and arriving in style added a special touch to our evening.' Corporate Executive Transport This sentiment echoes across testimonials, where the attention to detail and personalized service are consistently applauded.

Private Chauffeur for Special Events Vancouver
Downtown Vancouver SUV Service
Downtown Vancouver SUV Service

High-speed Wi-Fi keeps you connected, whether you're catching up on work or streaming your favorite show. These models cater to up to 14 passengers and don't skimp on luxury, featuring leather seats, ample legroom, and onboard Wi-Fi to keep everyone connected and entertained throughout the journey. Whether it's arranging for special amenities onboard or planning stops at hidden gems along your route, Banff Transport goes the extra mile to make your journey unforgettable. Sophia, who booked a scenic tour around Vancouver, can't stop talking about the experience. 'It was breathtaking. Moreover, Banff Transport encourages digital bookings and communications, cutting down on paper waste and contributing to their green initiative.
It's not just about getting from point A to B; it's about savoring every moment of the journey. With us, you're not just a passenger; you're a VIP, privy to insider tips on the best spots to dine, shop, and snap the perfect photo. They undergo rigorous training to meet our high standards, ensuring your safety and comfort throughout your journey. Each vehicle is equipped with tinted windows and advanced safety features, giving you peace of mind.
Each vehicle in Banff Transport's fleet is meticulously maintained, ensuring reliability and safety for your travels. Read more about Airport Chauffeur Vancouver here Have you ever imagined gliding through Vancouver's bustling streets, ensconced in the lap of luxury, without the usual fret over navigating or parking? It's versatile enough to handle luggage while providing everyone with a comfortable seat. You'll also enjoy special rates that aren't available to the general public.
The best part? Banff Transport doesn't skimp on the details, ensuring your ride is as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. Depending on when you're traveling, you'll face different climates and conditions that could impact your journey. It's a journey where the ride is as monumental as the destination, etching memories that will last a lifetime.

Executive Car Service
Downtown Vancouver Private Car Service

There's no need to worry about navigating or parking; we've got it covered. That's why we've designed our transportation service to maximize your enjoyment and minimize any inconvenience. Let's handle the logistics of your airport transfer, so you can focus on enjoying your visit from the moment you arrive. It's designed for easy navigation, allowing you to quickly fill out the reservation form with your travel details. With Banff Transport, you're not just getting from point A to point B; you're indulging in a seamless blend of luxury and efficiency that makes every trip memorable.
You don't have to worry about navigating through traffic or finding parking. You're not just paying for a ride; you're investing in a worry-free journey. As you step out of the luxury vehicle, the crisp mountain air will fill your lungs, and you'll immediately feel the embrace of nature that makes this place so special. You've got a couple of easy ways to secure your ride.
Let's take the wheel, and you take in the views. Luxury Sedan Rental Following the seamless booking process, your next concern is likely the safety and reliability of your journey from Vancouver to the Sea to Sky region. Business Transportation So, get ready to explore more, with Banff Transport making your journey as memorable as the places you visit. With Banff Transport's luxury private transportation service in Vancouver, you're not just booking a trip; you're crafting an experience.
They're often more than happy to share their local knowledge, adding a unique touch to your journey. Discover how this meticulous attention to detail elevates your travels, leaving you curious about the layers of luxury that set Banff Transport apart. It's about feeling pampered, valued, and excited about every mile you cover. You don't have to worry about timing, routes, or weather conditions.

Explore Airport Chauffeur Vancouver here

Executive Limo

  • Luxury Ground Transportation
  • Luxury Prom Limo
  • Business Executive Shuttle
  • Private Airport Transfer
  • Luxury Airport Pickup
  • Private Luxury Car
  • Premium Limo Service
  • Private Limo
  • Luxury Ride Share
  • Private Event Transportation
  • Private Chauffeur
  • High-End Chauffeur
  • Luxury Transportation Company
  • Executive Car Service
  • Luxury Fleet
  • Luxury Party Bus
  • Luxury Event Transportation
Downtown Vancouver Private Car Service

 

A chauffeur in Japan standing next to a Nissan Fuga

A chauffeur ( French pronunciation: [ʃɔ.fœʁ]) is a person employed to drive passenger motor vehicle, especially a luxury vehicle such as a large sedan, SUV or a limousine.

Initially, such drivers were often personal employees of the vehicle owner, but this has changed to specialist chauffeur service companies or individual drivers that provide both driver and vehicle for hire. Some service companies merely offer the driver.

History

[edit]
A chauffeur in Glasgow during World War I

The term chauffeur comes from the dominance of French motor manufacturers in the 1890s and their use of Daimler engines with hot tube ignitors. These required heating (chauffer) with a Bunsen burner before the engine would work. This delicate procedure and the maintenance of the platinum tubes was the work of a chauffeur who also maintained and could drive the car.[1][2] From 1900, magneto ignition took over, but as cars got faster, pneumatic tyres became essential and were subject to punctures.[3] The role of chauffeur evolved into that of driver, mechanic and maker of running repairs.

Only the wealthy could afford the first cars. In the 1890s, cars were open, often had a single bench seat and were driven by their owners. From 1900 they became practical transport and owners employed chauffeurs rather than driving themselves. A 1906 article in The New York Times reported that "the chauffeur problem to-day is one of the most serious that the automobilist has to deal with", and complained that "young men of no particular ability, who have been earning from $10 to $12 a week, are suddenly elevated to salaried positions paying from $25 to $50" and recommended the re-training of existing coach drivers.[4]

Scope

[edit]

While the term may refer to anybody who drives for a living, it usually implies a driver of an elegant passenger vehicle such as a horse-drawn carriage, luxury sedan, motor coach, or especially a limousine; those who operate buses or non-passenger vehicles are generally referred to as "drivers". In some countries, particularly developing nations where a ready supply of labor ensures that even the middle classes can afford domestic staff and among the wealthy,[5] the chauffeur may simply be called the "driver".

Some people may employ chauffeurs full-time to drive them in their vehicles, while professional services offer on-request limousines or rental cars that include chauffeurs.[6] This is similar to but much more luxurious than taking a taxicab. A variety of benefits are cited for using chauffeurs, including convenience, productivity, and time savings,[7] and driving safety for business people[8] and seniors.[9] Insurance costs for luxury vehicles are often lower if the designated driver is a chauffeur.[5]

The legal requirements for being a chauffeur vary depending on the local jurisdiction and class of vehicle. In some cases, a simple permit is required. Still, in others, an additional professional license with specific minimum standards in areas such as age, health, driving experience, criminal record, local geographic knowledge, or training is needed.[10][11]

Training

[edit]
The first examination of chauffeurs under a new law, New York, 1910

In addition to the minimum legal requirements, limousine companies often require their chauffeurs to undergo specific extra training.[12][13] These courses may involve evasive driving or defensive driving techniques, the proper methods to ensure safety in the most extreme conditions, such as inclement weather, a flat tire at high speeds, or other exterior influences for loss of vehicular control, etc.[14]

Many companies also have courses on what they expect from their chauffeurs. Chauffeurs may be taught proper etiquette when they are in the presence of their clientele. They may also be trained for services to the client beyond the car itself, such as for a personal valet or bodyguard.[15]

Many companies and local licensing agencies require random drug screening for chauffeurs.[16] There have been increased requirements for compliance in drug and alcohol testing in the United States.[17] The problem was highlighted after professional ice hockey player Vladimir Konstantinov's career-ending injuries when his recently hired chauffeur, Richard Gnida, lost control of their limousine and crashed.[18][19] Another concern are company drug and alcohol policies for chauffeurs in those states where marijuana is legal because of the potential impact and impairment to perform their job safely and effectively.[20]

Notable chauffeurs

[edit]

In fiction

[edit]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ Johnson, Erik (1986). The Dawn of Motoring. Milton Keynes: Mercedes-Benz (UK ) Ltd. pp. 28–29. ISBN 0951062506.
  2. ^ Hutton, J.Ernest (1902). Harmsworth, Alfred (ed.). Motors and Motor-Driving (2nd ed.). London: Longmans, Green & Co. pp. 138–142.
  3. ^ Freeston, C.L. (1902). Harmsworth, Alfred (ed.). Motors and Motor Driving (2nd ed.). London: Longmans, Green & Co. pp. 224–237.
  4. ^ "Chauffeurs Lord It Over Their Employers; Big Salaries Turn the Heads of Automobile Drivers. They Scorn Menial Work Garage Managers Also Have Trouble with Them -- A Better Class Being Turned Out by the Schools". The New York Times. 12 August 1906. p. 16. Retrieved 12 December 2016.
  5. ^ a b Sanger, David E. (23 September 2010). "Once Around the Block, James, and Pick Me Up After My Nap". The New York Times. p. 7. Retrieved 31 October 2010.
  6. ^ Stern, Linda (1 October 2007). "Hey, Look, Boss: No Hands!". Newsweek. Archived from the original on 14 September 2009. Retrieved 14 November 2009.
  7. ^ Villano, Matt (17 September 2007). "A Chauffeur Role That Tries Harder". The New York Times. Retrieved 14 November 2009.
  8. ^ "Driven To Distraction: Mobile Office Gone Too Far?". NBC5. Chicago. 24 September 2007. Archived from the original on 15 October 2007. Retrieved 31 January 2021.
  9. ^ "Too Old To Drive?". The Rachael Ray Show. MMVII KWP Studios. 10 October 2007. Archived from the original on 11 January 2008. Retrieved 14 November 2009.
  10. ^ "Licensing". Transport for London. Mayor of London. Retrieved 17 February 2025.
  11. ^ "FAQ". NYC Taxi and Limousine Commission. Archived from the original on 28 May 2010. Retrieved 25 November 2018.
  12. ^ Blain, James (15 May 2024). "Creating the Ideal Chauffeur Training Plan". chauffeurdriven.com. Retrieved 17 February 2025.[dead link]
  13. ^ "Benchmark & Best Practices – Chauffeur Training". chauffeurdriven.com. 8 March 2016. Retrieved 17 February 2025.[dead link]
  14. ^ "Chauffeur & VIP Close Protection Driver Course Review". thechauffeur.com. 8 April 2016. Retrieved 17 February 2025.
  15. ^ Elliott, Hannah (24 November 2024). "What I learnt about luxury at the Rolls-Royce school for chauffeurs". indiatimes.com. Bloomberg. Retrieved 17 February 2025.
  16. ^ "Benchmark & Best Practices – Drug Testing". chauffeurdriven.com. 8 November 2015. Retrieved 17 February 2025.
  17. ^ "Update Required: New Regulations for Drug and Alcohol Testing". chauffeurdriven.com. 30 March 2020. Archived from the original on 3 February 2023. Retrieved 17 February 2025.
  18. ^ Windsor, Shawn (6 October 2007). "2007's Top Wings Stories: Remembering the crash that ruined Stanley Cup celebration". Freep.com. Gannett. Archived from the original on 7 June 2011. Thirty-two laws took effect in 1999 amid mounting evidence that thousands of people with suspended or revoked licenses were driving, despite numerous alcohol-related convictions and serious traffic violations.
  19. ^ "Ex-Wings Limo Driver Arrested". CBS News. Associated Press. 2 July 1999. Retrieved 19 September 2008.
  20. ^ Holden, Tom (15 July 2024). "You Probably Need to Update Your Company's Drug and Alcohol Policy". chauffeurdriven.com. Archived from the original on 13 August 2024. Retrieved 17 February 2025.
  21. ^ Kempka, Erich (2010). I Was Hitler's Chauffeur - The Memoir of Erich Kempka. Pen & Sword Books. ISBN 9781781599723.
  22. ^ Thomas Jr., Robert McG. (25 May 1995). "Roosevelt S. Zanders, Stars' Chauffeur, Dies at 81". The New York Times. p. 8. Retrieved 25 November 2018.
  23. ^ Palm, Matthew J. (21 January 2021). "In 'Daisy,' Michael Morman's in the driver's seat again". Orlando Sentinel. Retrieved 31 January 2021.
  24. ^ Bauer, Patricia (17 December 2017). "Driving Miss Daisy: Plot, Cast, Awards, & Facts". Encyclopedia Britannica. Retrieved 31 January 2021.
[edit]
  • Media related to Chauffeurs at Wikimedia Commons

 

1908 Studebaker limousine with an open driver's compartment
1953 Rolls-Royce Phantom IV (coachwork by Hooper)

A limousine (/ˈlɪməzn/ or /lɪməˈzn/), or limo (/ˈlɪm/) for short,[1] is a large, chauffeur-driven luxury vehicle with a partition between the driver compartment and the passenger compartment which can be operated mechanically by hand or by a button electronically.[2] A luxury sedan with a very long wheelbase and driven by a professional driver is called a stretch limousine.[3]

In some countries, such as the United States, United Kingdom, Japan, Italy, Germany, France, the Netherlands, Canada, and Australia, a limousine service may be any pre-booked hire car with a driver, usually, but only sometimes a luxury car. In particular, airport shuttle services are often called "limousine services", though they often use minivans or light commercial vehicles.[2]

Etymology

[edit]
The type of limousine hood or roof described in the text (1912 Vauxhall)

The word limousine is derived from the name of the French region Limousin; however, how the area's name was transferred to the car is uncertain.

One possibility involves a particular type of carriage hood or roof that physically resembled the raised hood of the cloak worn by the shepherds there.[4][5]

An alternate etymology speculates that some early chauffeurs wore a Limousin-style cloak in the open driver's compartment for protection from the weather.[6] The name was then extended to this particular type of car with a permanent top projecting over the chauffeur.[4] This former type of automobile had an enclosed passenger compartment seating three to five persons, with only a roof projecting forward over the open driver's area in the front.[7]

History

[edit]

Wealthy owners of expensive carriages and their passengers were accustomed to their private compartments leaving their coachman or driver outside in all weathers. When automobiles arrived, the same people required a similar arrangement for their chauffeurs. As such, the 1916 definition of limousine by the US Society of Automobile Engineers is "a closed car seating three to five inside, with driver's seat outside".[8]

In Great Britain, the limousine de-ville was a version of the limousine town car where the driver's compartment was outside and had no weather protection.[9]: 103  The limousine-landaulet variant (also sold in the United States) had a removable or folding roof section over the rear passenger seat.[9]: 100 

In the United States, sub-categories of limousines in 1916 were the berline, defined as "a limousine having the driver's seat entirely enclosed", and the brougham, described as "a limousine with no roof over the driver's seat."[8]

The president of the United States has ridden in a variety of brands of state cars starting from 1899 when President William McKinley was the first to ride in a car, a steam Locomobile.[10][11][12]

U.S. limousine business declined in the 21st century due to the effects of the Great Recession, the subsequent rise of ride sharing apps, and an industry crisis precipitated by deadly stretch limousine crashes in 2015 and Schoharie, New York, in 2018. Moreover, during this time, people who would have once utilized limousines began opting to travel more discreetly in cars like black SUVs.[13]

Characteristics

[edit]

The limousine body style usually has a partition separating the driver from the rear passenger compartment.[6][9] This partition usually includes an openable glass section so passengers may see the road. Communication with the driver is possible either by opening the partition window or using an intercom system.

Limousines are often long-wheelbase vehicles to provide extra legroom in the passenger compartment. There will usually be occasional seats (in the U.S. called jump seats) at the front of the compartment (either forward-facing, rear-facing, or able to face either direction).

Many nations have official state cars designed to transport government officials. The top leaders have dedicated and specially equipped limousines. The United States Presidential State Car is the official car of the President of the United States.

Stretch limousines

[edit]
Lincoln Town Car stretch limousine

Stretch limousines are longer than regular limousines, usually to accommodate more passengers. Stretch limousines may have seating along the sides of the cabin.

A "stretch limousine" was created in Fort Smith, Arkansas, around 1928 by the Armbruster coach company. Their vehicles were primarily used to transport famous "big band" leaders, such as Glenn Miller and Benny Goodman, and their members and equipment. These early stretch limousines were often called "big band buses". Armbruster called their lengthened cars "extended-wheelbase multi-door auto-coaches". Their 12-passenger coaches were used by hotels, taxis, airlines, corporations, and tour companies.[14] Knock-down programs by automakers made coachbuilders stretch vehicles, but Armbruster also custom built limousines using unibody construction such as the 1969 AMC Ambassadors.[15]

As of 2023, stretch limousines comprise one percent of U.S. limousine company offerings. That total was down from about ten percent in 2013.[13]

Novelty limousines

[edit]

A variety of vehicles not designed as limousines have been converted into novelty limousines.[16] Another style of novelty limousine are those painted in bright colors, such as purple or pink.[17]

Vehicles converted into novelty stretch limousines include the East German Trabant, Volkswagen Beetle, Fiat Panda, and Citroën 2CV. There are instances of Corvettes, Ferraris, and Mini Coopers being stretched to accommodate up to 10 passengers.

[edit]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ Garner, Bryan (July 28, 2009). Garner's Modern American Usage. Oxford University Press. ISBN 9780199874620. Archived from the original on July 7, 2023. Retrieved August 2, 2020.
  2. ^ a b "Definition of limousine". merriam-webster.com. October 28, 2019. Archived from the original on September 20, 2019. Retrieved November 6, 2019.
  3. ^ "Definition of Stretch Limo". merriam-webster.com. Archived from the original on July 2, 2020. Retrieved November 6, 2019.
  4. ^ a b Dyke, Andrew Lee (1920). Dyke's Automobile and Gasoline Engine Encyclopedia (Twelfth ed.). p. 582. Archived from the original on July 7, 2023. Retrieved June 27, 2015.
  5. ^ Ayto, John (2009). Word Origins. A&C Black Publishers. ISBN 978-1-4081-0160-5. Archived from the original on July 7, 2023. Retrieved June 27, 2015.
  6. ^ a b The Random House College Dictionary. Random House. 1975. p. 777. ISBN 0-394-43600-8. 1. an automobile having a permanently enclosed compartment for from three to five persons, the roof of which projects forward over the driver's seat in front...[< F, special use of limousine long cloak, so called because worn by the shepherds of Limousin, a former province in central France]
  7. ^ "Definition of limousine" (Complete & Unabridged Digital ed.). Collins English Dictionary. 2012. Archived from the original on April 17, 2019. Retrieved November 6, 2019.
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  10. ^ Huffman, John Pearley (January 19, 2009). "The Top Presidential Limousines of All Time". Popular Mechanics. Retrieved December 6, 2023.
  11. ^ DeWitt, Nancy (September 4, 2012). "Presidential Wheels". Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum. Retrieved December 6, 2023.
  12. ^ "A Car Fit For A President". Grundy Insurance. February 25, 2017. Retrieved December 6, 2023.
  13. ^ a b Jiménez, Jesus (2023-04-28). "The Long Demise of the Stretch Limousine". The New York Times. Archived from the original on 2023-04-30. Retrieved 2023-04-30.
  14. ^ Theobald, Mark; DeWinter IV, Bernie (2004). "Armbruster & Company, Tom Armbruster, Ed Robben, Armbruster/Stageway, Fort Smith, Airport Limousine, Earnhart & Johansen". coachbuilt.com. Archived from the original on 26 March 2023. Retrieved 28 December 2022.
  15. ^ Strohl, Daniel (23 September 2018). "1969 AMC Ambassador Limousine". Hemmings. Archived from the original on 28 December 2022. Retrieved 28 December 2022.
  16. ^ "Dave's Classic Limousines Pictures: Novelty Limousines". Archived from the original on July 12, 2015. Retrieved June 27, 2015.
  17. ^ Naylor, Sharon (2004). 1000 Best Wedding Bargains. Sourcebooks. p. 198. ISBN 978-1-4022-0298-8. Retrieved June 27, 2015. novelty limousines.
[edit]
  • The dictionary definition of limousine at Wiktionary
  • Media related to Limousines at Wikimedia Commons

 

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