High-End Car Service Vancouver

High-End Car Service Vancouver

VIP Airport Pickup

They're on it. The route then guides you along the Coquihalla Highway, where the scenery shifts to rugged mountains and dense forests, offering glimpses of wildlife and nature's unspoiled splendor. That's possible too. Forget about the hassle of navigating or the stress of crowded tour buses. Learn more about High-End Car Service Vancouver here Imagine sliding into a sleek, state-of-the-art sedan for swift city navigation or enjoying the spacious elegance of an SUV, perfect for larger groups or extra luggage.
This means that from the door handles to the seat belts, and even the touchscreens, everything's sanitized for your safety. You'll often find that luxury vehicles come equipped with a range of on-board amenities designed to enhance your travel experience from Vancouver Airport to Banff. Moreover, Banff Transport is committed to accommodating special requests to enhance your experience. Imagine sipping on a cold beverage or enjoying a gourmet treat as you gaze out at the breathtaking views. Learn more about Banff Transport here. Private Minivan Service
Fancy a closer look at the majestic Shannon Falls or the awe-inspiring Stawamus Chief? Every vehicle boasts an impeccably maintained interior, featuring plush seating, climate control, and privacy windows for your comfort and convenience. Luxury Limousine Rental You're not just another passenger; you're the master of your adventure. You're not just getting a ride; you're indulging in an experience that sets the tone for your entire trip.
That's why we're dedicated to crafting travel experiences that are as unique as you are. Beyond the luxury of our fleet, you'll find our professional chauffeurs are the cornerstone of the exceptional service we provide.

VIP Airport Pickup

  1. Private Airport Transfer
  2. Private Chauffeur
  3. Executive Limo
  4. Premium Limo Service
  5. Luxury Prom Limo
  6. High-End Shuttle
  7. Luxury Transportation Company
  8. Executive Chauffeur
  9. Luxury Airport Shuttle
  10. Luxury Travel Concierge
  11. Luxury Car Hire
  12. Luxury Corporate Travel
  13. VIP Limo
  14. Private Car Service
  15. Corporate Executive Transport
  16. Luxury Limousine
  17. Private SUV Transportation
  18. Luxury Fleet
  19. Private Minivan Service
Accommodating up to 56 passengers, these buses offer reclining seats, overhead storage, and onboard restrooms, making long-distance travel a breeze. Securing your luxury private transportation from Vancouver to Banff is an effortless process, designed to match the convenience and comfort of your upcoming journey.

Luxury Group Transportation

Moreover, your safety and privacy are paramount. Choosing luxury means prioritizing your time and well-being. Luxury Private Coach With Banff Transport's diverse fleet, you're not just choosing a mode of transportation; you're opting for an experience that elevates every moment of your trip. Every ride with our luxury private transportation service in Vancouver epitomizes unmatched comfort and elegance, ensuring your journey is as seamless as it's stylish. Imagine stepping into a vehicle where your personal preferences are already known - from the ambient temperature to the playlist humming softly in the background.

Whether you're heading to a business meeting or exploring Vancouver's beautiful sights, Banff Transport ensures that your travel is as memorable as your destination. What's more, Banff Transport's family packages aren't just about the ride. You're not just limited to vehicle choice; Banff Transport allows you to set the ambiance for your journey. Banff Transport transforms this dream into reality, offering you seamless downtown pickups with its premium private transportation service.

Another testimonial emphasized the reliability of Banff Transport, stating, 'I've used their services for both business and personal trips, and they've never let me down. For larger parties, there are luxury vans that can comfortably accommodate groups, making sure everyone travels together in style. You won't find a one-size-fits-all approach here. That's why we've invested heavily in state-of-the-art security measures and meticulous maintenance routines to guarantee that your travel experience with us isn't only luxurious but also exceptionally secure.

Stay with us as we unpack the layers of this exclusive service that promises to redefine luxury travel for families and groups. You'll be relieved to know that each vehicle in our fleet is equipped with the latest safety technologies, including GPS tracking and advanced driver assistance systems, to ensure a smooth and safe ride. Private Car Service Want to soak in the breathtaking views of the North Shore mountains? Whether you're planning a romantic getaway, a corporate event, or a family vacation, there's a vehicle in our fleet that's just right for you.

Citations and other links

Group SUV Transportation Vancouver

Venturing through Vancouver's vibrant vistas just became vastly more comfortable with the latest launch of luxury private transportation services tailored specifically for cruise terminal and ferry port transfers. The onboard Wi-Fi is fast and reliable, keeping you connected to work or social media, sharing your journey in real-time. Entertainment options are plentiful, with individual screens offering movies, TV shows, and games, making the miles fly by for both kids and adults. Whether you need extra stops for sightseeing or flexible pick-up and drop-off times, they're ready to adapt their services to meet your requirements. You won't have to endure a moment of boredom or discomfort as every detail is considered with your preferences in mind.

Safety and comfort are top priorities, so your chauffeur will ensure you're settled in before smoothly starting the journey. Your journey could start with a leisurely drive through the lush landscapes of Stanley Park, followed by a visit to the historic Gastown, where you can marvel at the steam clock and explore boutique shops. If you have any questions or need to make changes, their customer service team is just a call away, ready to assist you with utmost care and professionalism. Plus, with charging ports readily available, your devices will always be powered up.

Securing your luxurious journey from Vancouver Airport to Banff begins with a simple booking process. Choosing them means peace of mind.

VIP Limo

  • VIP Airport Pickup
  • Private Chauffeured Van
  • Executive Van Service
  • Luxury Car Hire
  • Luxury Corporate Travel
  • VIP Limo
  • Private Car Service
  • Corporate Executive Transport
  • Luxury Limousine
  • Private SUV Transportation
  • Luxury Fleet
  • Private Minivan Service
  • Luxury Hotel Shuttle
  • Luxury Private Coach
  • Luxury Limousine Rental
  • Luxury Group Transportation
  • Executive Car Service
Choosing Banff Transport for your travel needs means opting for a seamless, luxurious experience unlike any other. Moreover, they're equipped with the latest technology to navigate the city efficiently, and they're always prepared to adjust to your schedule or preferences, making your travel stress-free. Luxury SUV Rental

From the moment you're picked up to your last stop in Banff, you're in control, free to immerse yourself in the beauty and excitement of the Rockies without a worry in the world. This personalized approach ensures that your journey isn't just a travel from point A to B, but a memorable experience tailored exclusively for you. Banff Transport doesn't just limit its services to the airport; they're your gateway to exploring the vibrant city and beyond. Next, you'll enter your personal details and any special requests you might have, such as child seats or accessibility accommodations.

Luxury Private Coach

  • Premium Limo Service
  • Luxury Prom Limo
  • High-End Shuttle
  • Luxury Transportation Company
  • Executive Chauffeur
  • Luxury Airport Shuttle
  • Luxury Travel Concierge
  • Luxury Fleet
  • Private Minivan Service
  • Luxury Hotel Shuttle
  • Luxury Private Coach
  • Luxury Limousine Rental
  • Luxury Group Transportation
  • Executive Car Service
  • Luxury SUV Rental
  • Airport Limo


Group SUV Transportation Vancouver
SUV Transportation To Ferry Terminal Vancouver

SUV Transportation To Ferry Terminal Vancouver

You're not just choosing a way to get from point A to point B; you're selecting an integral part of your adventure. It's not just about the seats, though. Our fleet is versatile, catering to different tastes and requirements, whether you prefer the understated elegance of a luxury sedan or the plush comfort of a stretch limousine. Each seat is equipped with personal charging stations, so your devices are always ready to capture the moment or keep you entertained.

Luxury Hotel Shuttle

  • Luxury Car Rental
  • Luxury Airport Pickup
  • Luxury Hotel Transfer
  • Luxury Night Out Transport
  • Airport Transfer
  • Private Luxury Car
  • VIP Transportation
  • Luxury Party Bus
  • Luxury Sedan Service
  • Luxury Van Service
  • Private Airport Transfer
  • Private Chauffeur
  • Executive Limo
  • Premium Limo Service
  • Luxury Prom Limo
Understanding the need for flexibility, especially when traveling with kids, these services include child seats upon request and ample luggage space, making it easier to carry everything from strollers to sports equipment.

Private Car Service

  1. Luxury Party Bus
  2. Luxury Sedan Service
  3. Luxury Van Service
  4. Private Airport Transfer
  5. Private Chauffeur
  6. Executive Limo
  7. Premium Limo Service
  8. Luxury Prom Limo
  9. High-End Shuttle
  10. Luxury Transportation Company
  11. Executive Chauffeur
  12. Luxury Airport Shuttle
  13. Luxury Travel Concierge
  14. VIP Limo
  15. Private Car Service

The service listens, adapts, and suggests, ensuring that every detail, from the pickup time to the scenic routes taken, aligns perfectly with your desires. Our luxury private transportation isn't just about getting from point A to B; it's about making every moment of your Vancouver visit unforgettable. Imagine stepping into a world where your comfort and satisfaction are paramount, with every detail meticulously planned to enhance your journey. Our customer service team is always on standby, ready to provide assistance and answer any questions you may have.
Banff Transport doesn't just offer a ride; they provide an experience. First off, it's essential to make a list of must-see destinations along your route. Moreover, we're committed to your security from start to finish. With Banff Transport, you're not just choosing a premium travel experience; you're choosing peace of mind. Read more about High-End Car Service Vancouver here
With customer-friendly policies, you can alter your plans without hefty penalties, giving you peace of mind. Furthermore, you can expect impeccable punctuality. If you're unsure about your schedule or have special requests, Banff Transport's customer service is just a call or click away, ready to accommodate your needs with utmost flexibility. After you've made your selection, you'll be asked to provide a few personal details and confirm your booking.

Luxury Car Service Vancouver BC

You'll find only the latest models, each equipped with plush interiors and cutting-edge technology to ensure your journey is both comfortable and connected. You're also given the option to customize your ride with specific amenities, aligning with the exclusive experience Banff Transport is known for. Luxury Car Hire Their commitment to convenience, coupled with luxurious offerings, transforms the way you think about airport transfers. Embarking on your journey through the scenic Sea to Sky corridor, you'll find unparalleled comfort and privacy with Vancouver's premier luxury private transportation service.

From ensuring your safety and privacy to providing bespoke solutions for your event transportation needs, Banff Transport stands out as a harbinger of luxury travel's future. Moreover, comfort isn't taken lightly.

Private Car Service

  • Luxury Prom Limo
  • High-End Shuttle
  • Luxury Transportation Company
  • Executive Chauffeur
  • Luxury Airport Shuttle
  • Luxury Travel Concierge
  • Luxury Limousine
  • Private SUV Transportation
  • Luxury Fleet
  • Private Minivan Service
  • Luxury Hotel Shuttle
  • Luxury Private Coach
  • Luxury Limousine Rental
  • Luxury Group Transportation
  • Executive Car Service
  • Luxury SUV Rental
  • Airport Limo
  • Luxury Sedan Rental
Your driver can make it happen.

You're not just picking a ride; you're choosing an experience. Every journey with Banff Transport is elevated by the skill and professionalism of their experienced chauffeurs. Availability is comprehensive, catering to various schedules, but it's wise to book in advance, especially during peak seasons, to guarantee your desired travel dates.

You can expect nothing less than high-quality interiors, state-of-the-art entertainment systems, and climate control features that cater to your comfort every step of the way. So, you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride, knowing everything is handled with precision and care. Every detail, from the ambient lighting that sets the perfect mood to the state-of-the-art sound systems that envelop you in your favorite tunes, contributes to an atmosphere of exclusive luxury.

Luxury Car Service Vancouver BC
Hourly Limo Service Vancouver
Hourly Limo Service Vancouver

Imagine sinking into plush seats as you whisk away to Banff, with scenic views unfolding before your eyes.

Executive Van Service

  • Luxury Sedan Rental
  • Luxury Town Car
  • Private Event Transportation
  • Luxury Ride
  • Corporate Car Service
  • Luxury Car Rental
  • Luxury Airport Pickup
  • Luxury Hotel Transfer
  • Luxury Night Out Transport
  • Airport Transfer
  • Private Luxury Car
  • VIP Transportation
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  • Luxury Van Service
  • Private Airport Transfer
  • Private Chauffeur
  • Executive Limo
  • Premium Limo Service
  • Luxury Prom Limo
Whether you're here for the stunning scenery, exquisite dining, or both, Banff Transport elevates your experience, making every moment in Vancouver truly unforgettable. Whether you're in town for business or pleasure, our fleet is at your disposal, ready to transform any journey into an unforgettable part of your visit. Or perhaps you're drawn to the historic charm of Gastown, where cobblestone streets meet modern boutiques and cafes.

One key feature is the personalized meet-and-greet service. You'll also appreciate the personalized climate control, allowing you to adjust the environment to suit everyone's comfort levels. You'll find that each vehicle is outfitted with amenities aimed at maximizing comfort and convenience.

Private Car Service

  • Corporate Executive Transport
  • Luxury Limousine
  • Private SUV Transportation
  • Luxury Fleet
  • Private Minivan Service
  • Luxury Hotel Shuttle
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  • Luxury Limousine Rental
  • Luxury Group Transportation
  • Executive Car Service
  • Luxury SUV Rental
  • Airport Limo
  • Luxury Sedan Rental
  • Luxury Town Car
  • Private Event Transportation
  • Luxury Ride


They don't cut corners when it comes to your well-being. If you're new to Vancouver or returning after a while, your driver can also act as a personal guide, recommending places to visit or dine based on your interests. You're not just moving between two points; you're embarking on a voyage through diverse ecosystems and geological wonders.

With an intimate knowledge of the area, they can offer recommendations, share stories, and even tailor your journey to include hidden gems along the way. You'll find that they're not just talking the talk; they're walking the walk by integrating eco-friendly vehicles into their fleet. Think leather seats, climate control, Wi-Fi, and even a selection of refreshments.

Executive Highway Transfer Vancouver

You've got legroom to stretch, Wi-Fi to stay connected, and perhaps even a refreshment or two to make the journey more enjoyable. Whether you're planning a leisurely day trip along the scenic routes or need to adjust your plans due to unforeseen circumstances, they've got you covered. Our chauffeurs aren't just selected for their driving skills; they're chosen for their professionalism, discretion, and commitment to customer service. At the heart of Banff Transport's luxury service lies its premium fleet, meticulously selected to ensure your ride is nothing short of spectacular. From the moment you book your ride, every detail is meticulously planned to ensure your journey is seamless. Airport Limo
As the saying goes, it's not just the destination but the journey that counts.

Airport Limo

  • Luxury SUV Rental
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  • Luxury Hotel Transfer
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  • Airport Transfer
  • Private Luxury Car
  • VIP Transportation
  • Luxury Party Bus
  • Luxury Sedan Service
  • Luxury Van Service
Elevating your travel experience, the service provides professional chauffeurs who'll ensure your journey is smooth, safe, and sophisticated. Whether it's a leisurely stroll around Lake Louise or a challenging hike up Sulphur Mountain, you're making a choice that benefits both the environment and your health. As you customize your journey with luxury private transportation in Vancouver, you'll also encounter unmatched scenic views that elevate your travel experience to extraordinary levels.
You'll find numerous testimonials highlighting how the seamless booking process and punctual arrivals transformed their travel into a stress-free journey. This commitment to accessibility and personalized service ensures that your booking experience is as smooth and enjoyable as your journey will be. Luxury Limousine This feature allows you to enjoy the peacefulness or listen to your choice of music and entertainment without competing with the roar of traffic. Want to linger a little longer at a picturesque viewpoint or adjust the day's plan on a whim?
Instead, everything's set up for your convenience, allowing you to book your ride in just a few clicks. Imagine settling into plush, leather seating that cradles you in comfort as you glide through the city or toward the mountains. They've implemented rigorous safety protocols to ensure you're in secure hands from the moment you step into their vehicles. This transparency ensures you're well-informed every step of the way.

Luxury Group Transportation

  1. Private Chauffeur
  2. Executive Limo
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  4. Luxury Prom Limo
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  7. Executive Chauffeur
  8. Luxury Airport Shuttle
  9. Luxury Travel Concierge
  10. Luxury SUV Rental
  11. Airport Limo
  12. Luxury Sedan Rental
  13. Luxury Town Car
  14. Private Event Transportation
  15. Luxury Ride
  16. Corporate Car Service
  17. Luxury Car Rental
  18. Luxury Airport Pickup

Explore High-End Car Service Vancouver here
Executive Highway Transfer Vancouver

 

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.
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  3. ^ "Definition of Stretch Limo". merriam-webster.com. Archived from the original on July 2, 2020. Retrieved November 6, 2019.
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  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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  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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