Elite Car Service Vancouver

Elite Car Service Vancouver

Private VIP Car Service

Safety and comfort aren't just promised; they're delivered, making your travel experience truly luxurious. Plus, they offer flexible payment options, including major credit cards and online payment services, making the entire process as seamless as possible.

Luxury Sedan Service

  1. Luxury Chauffeur Service
  2. Luxury Sedan Service
  3. Private Airport Transfer
  4. Luxury Event Transportation
  5. Private Limo
  6. High-End Shuttle
  7. Luxury City Tour
  8. Luxury Party Bus
  9. Private Chauffeur
  10. Luxury Ground Transportation
  11. Luxury Limousine
  12. Luxury Limousine Rental
  13. VIP Car Service
  14. VIP Transportation
  15. Private SUV Transportation
  16. Luxury Night Out Transport
Banff Transport is deeply committed to reducing its environmental footprint by implementing sustainable practices across all its luxury transportation services. Beyond the tangible comforts, there's the service.

Private VIP Car Service

  1. Luxury Travel Transportation
  2. Private Limo
  3. High-End Shuttle
  4. Luxury City Tour
  5. Luxury Party Bus
  6. Private Chauffeur
  7. Luxury Ground Transportation
  8. Luxury Limousine
  9. Luxury Limousine Rental
  10. VIP Car Service
  11. VIP Transportation
  12. Private SUV Transportation
  13. Luxury Night Out Transport
  14. Luxury Hotel Transfer
  15. Luxury Travel Transportation
  16. Private Limo
  17. High-End Shuttle
Learn more about Elite Car Service Vancouver here
Imagine stepping into a vehicle where the ambiance is set to your liking, from the lighting to the temperature, ensuring a ride that's as comfortable as it's unforgettable. Learn more about Banff Transport here. Their team works closely with you to plan every detail, from pick-up times to the best routes, ensuring your guests arrive comfortably and on time. You'll find that they're not just about providing a premium travel experience; they're deeply invested in sustainability efforts to minimize their carbon footprint.
Don't worry about hidden fees or unexpected charges. Need a spacious SUV for a family celebration? Spring and fall bring milder weather, but with it, unpredictable changes.
That's why they've equipped their luxury fleet with advanced safety features designed to provide peace of mind throughout your journey. Larger groups aren't left out, thanks to the spacious and comfortable coaches in the fleet. It's tailored to your preferences, whether that means taking a scenic route or ensuring punctual arrival for your engagements.

Staying hydrated and protecting yourself from the sun are key during these warmer months. You'll be greeted by a professionally dressed driver, holding a sign with your name or a designated identifier, ensuring you can spot them easily in a crowded area. In short, luxury travel with a service like Banff Transport transforms a simple journey into a memorable experience.

Airport Transfer

  • Luxury Sedan Service
  • Private Airport Transfer
  • Luxury Event Transportation
  • Private Limo
  • High-End Shuttle
  • Luxury City Tour
  • Luxury Party Bus
  • Private Chauffeur
  • Luxury Ground Transportation
  • Luxury Limousine
  • Luxury Limousine Rental
  • VIP Car Service
  • VIP Transportation
  • Private SUV Transportation
  • Luxury Night Out Transport
When you choose Banff Transport, you're not just selecting a luxury private transportation service; you're partnering with a company that places equal importance on luxury and the longevity of our planet.
Whether you need advice on the best places to eat, assistance with your luggage, or simply a quiet, comfortable ride to your destination, they're at your service. Our service ensures you'll arrive at your destination relaxed and ready to enjoy your holiday festivities.

Private Chauffeured Van

  1. Luxury Night Out Transport
  2. Luxury Hotel Transfer
  3. Luxury Travel Transportation
  4. Private Airport Transfer
  5. Luxury Event Transportation
  6. Private Limo
  7. High-End Shuttle
  8. Luxury City Tour
  9. Luxury Party Bus
  10. Private Chauffeur
  11. Luxury Ground Transportation
  12. Luxury Limousine
  13. Luxury Limousine Rental
  14. VIP Car Service
  15. VIP Transportation
  16. Private SUV Transportation
  17. Luxury Night Out Transport
  18. Luxury Hotel Transfer
Their competitive pricing ensures that you get premium service without breaking the bank.
For longer journeys, the pricing adapts to reflect the increased distance.

Private Chauffeured Van

  • Luxury Hotel Transfer
  • Luxury Travel Transportation
  • Private Chauffeured Van
  • Luxury Corporate Travel
  • VIP Airport Pickup
  • Airport Limo
  • Luxury Chauffeur Service
  • Luxury Sedan Service
  • Private Airport Transfer
  • Luxury Event Transportation
  • Private Limo
  • High-End Shuttle
  • Luxury City Tour
  • Luxury Party Bus
  • Private Chauffeur
  • Luxury Ground Transportation
Read more about Elite Car Service Vancouver here Here, the majestic peaks of Banff National Park loom on the horizon, hinting at the adventures that await. Luxury Corporate Travel Moreover, our drivers, who are professionals in the truest sense, prioritize your safety and convenience.
And for those who prefer visual entertainment, state-of-the-art screens are installed for you to enjoy movies or series of your choice. From the moment you book with Banff Transport, you'll notice the difference. With us, you're not just booking a ride; you're ensuring a seamless transition between every leg of your journey, no matter where you're headed.

Citations and other links

Vancouver International Airport Executive Transportation

From the moment you step inside one of our vehicles, you'll be enveloped in a world of premium comfort and convenience. Your professional chauffeur navigates the path, leaving you to soak in the unmatched scenic beauty. Another customer recalls, 'The ride was incredibly smooth, and the vehicle's luxury was beyond my expectations. Whether it's a small, intimate gathering or a large, lavish affair, Banff Transport's flexible packages can accommodate any group size without compromising on luxury or comfort.

It felt like a premium experience from start to finish.'Jasmine T. Private Chauffeured Van appreciated the attention to detail, saying, 'From the moment I booked, everything was handled so efficiently. When you choose our service, you're opting for a seamless, luxurious journey from the moment you land to the second you reach your destination. You'll find their booking system user-friendly, accessible either through their official website or by directly calling their customer service line.

You don't have to wade through endless forms or wait on hold. You've got the freedom to select the vehicle that best suits your style and needs, from luxury sedans for a more intimate setting to spacious SUVs for larger groups wanting to share the adventure together. You're not merely covering the miles; you're enjoying a seamless, luxurious journey, regardless of the distance.

Corporate Car Service

  • Luxury City Tour
  • Luxury Party Bus
  • Private Chauffeur
  • Luxury Ground Transportation
  • Luxury Limousine
  • Luxury Limousine Rental
  • VIP Car Service
  • VIP Transportation
  • Private SUV Transportation
  • Luxury Night Out Transport
  • Luxury Hotel Transfer
  • Luxury Travel Transportation
  • Corporate Car Service
  • Luxury Sedan Rental
  • Private Chauffeured Van
  • Luxury Corporate Travel
  • VIP Airport Pickup
  • Airport Limo


These vehicles can comfortably seat up to six passengers, with prices adjusted accordingly to reflect the additional space and comfort provided. They're not just skimming the surface; every high-touch area receives special attention to ensure it's germ-free. High-speed Wi-Fi ensures you're always connected, whether you need to catch up on work or stream your favorite show during the ride.



VIP Airport Pickup

  • Luxury Event Transportation
  • Private Limo
  • High-End Shuttle
  • Luxury City Tour
  • Luxury Party Bus
  • Private Chauffeur
  • Luxury Ground Transportation
  • Luxury Limousine
  • Luxury Limousine Rental
  • VIP Car Service
  • VIP Transportation
  • Private SUV Transportation
  • Luxury Night Out Transport
  • Luxury Hotel Transfer
  • Luxury Travel Transportation
  • Airport Limo
  • Luxury Chauffeur Service
Vancouver International Airport Executive Transportation
Private Airport Transfer Vancouver

Private Airport Transfer Vancouver

You'll soon have more choices at your fingertips. They also offer itinerary planning services to help you discover Vancouver's hidden gems or streamline your business trip. You'll glide through Vancouver's streets in vehicles that are the pinnacle of sophistication and refinement. To enhance your journey, the luxury private transportation service in Vancouver offers a selection of premium vehicles tailored to your preferences. For those in a small group, perhaps with family or close friends, an SUV offers the ideal blend of space and luxury.

Lastly, safety and privacy are paramount. Securing your luxury ride is a seamless process, designed to match the elegance of the journey you're about to embark on. You'll need to provide your flight details, preferred travel dates, and accommodation in Banff to ensure a seamless pickup and drop-off experience. They understand that when you're traveling with your loved ones or in a group, nothing is more important than ensuring everyone's safety.

The service is designed to cater to your needs, ensuring your travel experience is as stress-free and enjoyable as possible. To simplify your travel arrangements, the booking process for luxury private transportation is straightforward and user-friendly. Whether you're planning a corporate retreat, a family reunion, or a getaway with friends, they've got your back. Whether you're traveling for business, pleasure, or anything in-between, they've got you covered. Airport Transfer

Whether it's catching a flight, making a meeting, or just enjoying a leisurely day out, their personalized travel plans are designed with your timeline in mind, guaranteeing a stress-free travel experience tailored just for you. They're carefully selecting destinations that not only appeal to a wide range of interests but also highlight the beauty and diversity of the landscapes they traverse. They've got you covered. You'll notice the difference from the moment you're greeted.

Premium Executive Travel Vancouver

Your driver knows the perfect times to visit these places, ensuring you get an intimate experience. But it doesn't stop there. Each vehicle in Banff Transport's fleet is fitted with state-of-the-art safety technologies, including adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking. Banff Transport understands that every traveler's needs are unique, so they offer customizable options to match your specific requirements.

When you choose them, you're not just getting a ride; you're signing up for top-tier service that prioritizes your comfort, safety, and convenience. If you're someone who values comfort, exclusivity, and the beauty of the Canadian Rockies, this service isn't just about getting you from point A to B; it's about how you feel every mile of the journey. As you contemplate the convenience of moving around the city with unparalleled ease, consider the blend of sophistication and comfort that awaits you.

You're not just booking a ride; you're securing an experience that blends comfort, elegance, and punctuality seamlessly. They take care of the logistics so you can sit back, relax, and immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes and unique culture of your destination. Whether you have special requests or need advice on the best option for your group, they've got you covered.

Imagine stepping into a vehicle that's been chosen specifically for your comfort and style preferences.

Luxury Chauffeur Service

  1. Private VIP Car Service
  2. Corporate Executive Transport
  3. Airport Transfer
  4. Executive Limo
  5. Luxury Travel Service
  6. Corporate Car Service
  7. Luxury Sedan Rental
  8. Private Chauffeured Van
  9. Luxury Corporate Travel
  10. VIP Airport Pickup
  11. Airport Limo
  12. Luxury Chauffeur Service
  13. Luxury Sedan Service
  14. Private Airport Transfer
  15. Luxury Event Transportation
  16. Private Limo
  17. High-End Shuttle
  18. Luxury City Tour
  19. Luxury Party Bus
Our service isn't limited to just the points of departure and arrival; we also offer rides to tourist attractions, business districts, and other points of interest in the Vancouver area. Our luxury private transportation service is designed to offer you a seamless experience, whether you're heading to a cruise terminal or ferry port in Vancouver.

Premium Executive Travel Vancouver
Exclusive SUV Transportation Vancouver
Exclusive SUV Transportation Vancouver

From luxury sedans to spacious SUVs, you can select the perfect vehicle that suits your style and needs. Banff Transport doesn't just promise a luxury ride; they guarantee a premium service from start to finish, setting a new standard in private transportation. These views aren't merely a backdrop; they're an integral part of your travel story. These features work together to prevent accidents before they happen, giving you an extra layer of protection on the road. Moreover, the option to customize extends to the type of vehicle you prefer, the onboard amenities, and even the route taken.

It's their unwavering commitment to comfort, privacy, and flexibility, making every journey not just a trip, but a memorable experience. It's clear that Banff Transport has invested heavily in their fleet, guaranteeing a seamless and superior ride every time. Corporate Executive Transport Consider it done. You're treated to a personalized experience from the moment you book.

For entertainment, you've got access to onboard Wi-Fi and a state-of-the-art sound system. You'll find a selection of vehicles that blend luxury with sustainability, including electric and hybrid models that reduce emissions without compromising on comfort or style. Strategically located throughout the city, these pickup points are chosen for their accessibility and proximity to popular downtown landmarks and accommodations.

Airport Transfer

  1. Luxury Travel Transportation
  2. Luxury Event Transportation
  3. Private Limo
  4. High-End Shuttle
  5. Luxury City Tour
  6. Luxury Party Bus
  7. Private Chauffeur
  8. Luxury Ground Transportation
  9. Luxury Limousine
  10. Luxury Limousine Rental
  11. VIP Car Service
  12. VIP Transportation
  13. Private SUV Transportation
  14. Luxury Night Out Transport
  15. Luxury Hotel Transfer
Drivers aren't only experienced and knowledgeable about the route but also trained in safety protocols to handle any situation that may arise during your trip. Luxury Chauffeur Service

From the moment you book until you reach your destination, safety and reliability aren't just promised-they're delivered. Prioritizing your safety, Banff Transport upholds exceptional safety standards to ensure a secure journey from start to finish. You'll find everything from sleek sedans for solo travelers or couples seeking intimacy and comfort, to spacious SUVs perfect for families or small groups looking for a bit more room. Plus, with transparent pricing, you know exactly what to expect – no surprise fees or charges.

Luxury Black SUV Service Vancouver

After ensuring your safety with their stringent standards, Banff Transport also makes booking your luxury ride incredibly straightforward and hassle-free. It's clear-this luxury private transportation service transforms your journey into a seamless, stress-free experience. Next, you'll select your vehicle of choice from their premium fleet. They understand that you have options, so they work hard to offer superior service at prices that are hard to beat. Now, you can elevate your experience even before you set sail or after you disembark with a service designed to cater to your every need.
With luxury private transportation, you're not just a passenger; you're the master of your voyage. You can choose from a range of vehicles that ensure comfort for the whole family, from luxury sedans for smaller groups to spacious SUVs and vans for larger parties.

Private Airport Transfer

  1. Private SUV Transportation
  2. Luxury Night Out Transport
  3. Luxury Hotel Transfer
  4. Luxury Travel Transportation
  5. Luxury Travel Service
  6. Corporate Car Service
  7. Luxury Sedan Rental
  8. Private Chauffeured Van
  9. Luxury Corporate Travel
  10. VIP Airport Pickup
  11. Airport Limo
  12. Luxury Chauffeur Service
  13. Luxury Sedan Service
  14. Private Airport Transfer
  15. Luxury Event Transportation
  16. Private Limo
  17. High-End Shuttle
With our luxury private transportation service, you're not just getting a ride; you're creating a moment to remember. After you've made your selections, a clear and concise confirmation is sent directly to your inbox, outlining all the details of your upcoming journey, including the driver's information and any special instructions you've provided.
Whether it's a change in flight schedules or a last-minute update to your destination, you can adjust your reservation online without any hassle or additional fees. Here, you can specify your pick-up and drop-off locations, select your preferred luxury vehicle, and choose the date and time that best fits your schedule. The service prides itself on ensuring you arrive at your destination on time, every time, making it reliable for tight schedules. You're not just moving from point A to B; you're embarking on a visual feast that includes towering mountains, lush forests, and the serene expanse of the Pacific Ocean at your side.
Choosing this elevated travel experience means you're not just getting from point A to B; you're indulging in the luxury of choice, comfort, and style. Your personal information is safeguarded with the utmost care, and confidentiality agreements are strictly adhered to by all staff. These exclusive stops are tailored to your interests, whether you're an avid hiker, a food lover, or a photography enthusiast. From the plush seats that seem to swallow you whole in comfort to the personalized amenities that transform travel into an indulgence, every mile becomes a testament to your choice of elegance.

Explore Elite Car Service Vancouver here
Luxury Black SUV Service Vancouver
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.
  8. ^ a b "What's What in Automobile Bodies Officially Determined". The New York Times. August 20, 1916. Archived from the original on May 2, 2014. Retrieved June 27, 2015. Here it is, with other body types and distinctions, officially determined recently by the Nomenclature Division of the Society of Automobile Engineers
  9. ^ a b c Haajanen, Lennart W. (2003). Illustrated Dictionary of Automobile Body Styles. Jefferson, NC: McFarland. p. 96. ISBN 0-7864-1276-3. Archived from the original on July 7, 2023. Retrieved January 1, 2019.
  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

 

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.
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  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.
  8. ^ a b "What's What in Automobile Bodies Officially Determined". The New York Times. August 20, 1916. Archived from the original on May 2, 2014. Retrieved June 27, 2015. Here it is, with other body types and distinctions, officially determined recently by the Nomenclature Division of the Society of Automobile Engineers
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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

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Banff Transport reduces its environmental footprint by offering eco-friendly vehicle options. You'll find hybrids and electric vehicles in their fleet, ensuring your ride doesn't just feel luxurious but also supports sustainability efforts.

You can indeed arrange for multiple pick-up or drop-off points along your route from Vancouver to Banff to accommodate additional passengers. Just make sure to coordinate these stops in advance with your transportation provider.

Yes, you can make last-minute changes to your reservation, including time adjustments or destination modifications. They're flexible and aim to accommodate your needs, ensuring your experience is as smooth and stress-free as possible.