Luxury Sprinter Van Rental Vancouver

Luxury Sprinter Van Rental Vancouver

Luxury Limousine Rental

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.

Luxury Private Coach

  1. Luxury Limousine
  2. Luxury Transportation Company
  3. Luxury Hotel Transfer
  4. Private Executive Car
  5. VIP Transportation
  6. Private SUV Transportation
  7. VIP Travel Service
  8. High-End Shuttle
  9. Private Limo
  10. Executive Chauffeur
  11. Luxury Group Transportation
  12. VIP Car Service
  13. Luxury Town Car
  14. Luxury Ground Transportation
  15. Luxury Wedding Transport
  16. High-End Car Service
  17. Luxury Travel Transportation
  18. Private Chauffeur
The onboard Wi-Fi is fast and reliable, keeping you connected to work or social media, sharing your journey in real-time. Learn more about Banff Transport here. Learn more about Luxury Sprinter Van Rental Vancouver here 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.

Luxury Ride Share

  1. Private VIP Car Service
  2. Luxury Travel Concierge
  3. Luxury Limousine
  4. Luxury Transportation Company
  5. Luxury Hotel Transfer
  6. Private Executive Car
  7. VIP Transportation
  8. Private SUV Transportation
  9. VIP Travel Service
  10. High-End Shuttle
  11. Private Limo
  12. Executive Chauffeur
  13. Luxury Group Transportation
  14. VIP Car Service
  15. Luxury Town Car
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. 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.
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. Executive Limo Next, you'll enter your personal details and any special requests you might have, such as child seats or accessibility accommodations.

You're not just choosing a way to get from point A to point B; you're selecting an integral part of your adventure. Luxury Fleet It's not just about the seats, though. Luxury Airport Pickup 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.

Executive Limo

  1. VIP Car Service
  2. Luxury Town Car
  3. Luxury Ground Transportation
  4. Luxury Wedding Transport
  5. High-End Car Service
  6. Luxury Travel Transportation
  7. Private Chauffeur
  8. VIP Airport Pickup
  9. Executive Transportation
  10. Airport Transfer
  11. Limousine Rental
  12. Luxury Sedan Rental
  13. Business Transportation
  14. Private Luxury Car
  15. Luxury Corporate Travel
  16. Luxury SUV Rental
  17. Private Minivan Service
  18. Luxury Sedan Service
  19. Luxury Car Hire
  20. Luxury Car Service
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.

The service listens, adapts, and suggests, ensuring that every detail, from the pickup time to the scenic routes taken, aligns perfectly with your desires.

Corporate Car Service

  1. Luxury Night Out Transport
  2. Corporate Executive Transport
  3. Private Airport Transfer
  4. Premium Limo Service
  5. Luxury Transfer Service
  6. Luxury Ride Share
  7. Airport Limo
  8. Luxury Van Service
  9. Luxury Ride
  10. Luxury Fleet
  11. Luxury Prom Limo
  12. Corporate Car Service
  13. Luxury Private Coach
  14. Luxury Airport Pickup
  15. Private Car Service
  16. Executive Limo
  17. Private Event Transportation
  18. Private Chauffeured Van
  19. Private VIP Car Service
  20. Luxury Travel Concierge
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.

Luxury Airport Shuttle

  • Private Event Transportation
  • Private Chauffeured Van
  • Private VIP Car Service
  • Luxury Travel Concierge
  • Luxury Limousine
  • Luxury Transportation Company
  • Luxury Hotel Transfer
  • Private Executive Car
  • VIP Transportation
  • Private SUV Transportation
  • VIP Travel Service
  • High-End Shuttle
  • Private Limo
  • Executive Chauffeur
  • Luxury Group Transportation
With Banff Transport, you're not just choosing a premium travel experience; you're choosing peace of mind.

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.

Private Car Service

Citations and other links

Vancouver Corporate Car Service

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

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.

Private Event Transportation

  1. Luxury Night Out Transport
  2. Corporate Executive Transport
  3. Private Airport Transfer
  4. Premium Limo Service
  5. Luxury Transfer Service
  6. Luxury Ride
  7. Luxury Fleet
  8. Luxury Prom Limo
  9. Corporate Car Service
  10. Luxury Private Coach
  11. Luxury Airport Pickup
  12. Private Car Service
  13. Executive Limo
  14. Private Event Transportation
  15. Private Chauffeured Van
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.

Luxury Prom Limo
Vancouver Corporate Car Service
YVR Executive Pickup Service

YVR Executive Pickup Service

Moreover, your safety and privacy are paramount. Choosing luxury means prioritizing your time and well-being. 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. Luxury Airport Shuttle

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. 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.

Luxury Private Car Service Vancouver

Plan your itinerary with flexibility, allowing for spontaneous detours or relaxation. You'll enjoy plush seating, climate control, and entertainment options that make the miles fly by. We then create a personalized itinerary that fits your time frame, budget, and desires. Your driver, knowledgeable about the area, will likely provide you with a brief overview of Banff's must-see attractions. Their experienced drivers are well-versed in the area's attractions and can offer insights to make your journey more memorable.
You'll find yourself surrounded by elegance and sophistication from the moment you step into one of our vehicles.

Executive Limo

  • VIP Airport Pickup
  • Executive Transportation
  • Airport Transfer
  • Limousine Rental
  • Luxury Sedan Rental
  • Business Transportation
  • Private Luxury Car
  • Luxury Corporate Travel
  • Luxury SUV Rental
  • Private Minivan Service
  • Luxury Sedan Service
  • Luxury Car Hire
  • Luxury Car Service
  • Luxury Party Bus
  • Luxury Hotel Shuttle
  • Luxury Chauffeur Service
  • Luxury City Tour
  • Luxury Event Car Service
What sets our luxury private transportation service apart are the exclusive on-board services designed to elevate your Vancouver to Banff journey. This level of attention to detail sets luxury private transportation apart, providing an unmatched travel experience for cruise terminal and ferry port transfers. Don't just stick to the well-trodden paths; ask your driver for insider tips on hidden gems that most tourists miss.
Should you have any special requests or need further assistance, customer service is readily available. Read more about Luxury Sprinter Van Rental Vancouver here Your luxury transport service should have vehicles equipped for icy roads, ensuring a safe and comfortable ride. From the moment you arrive, you'll realize that Banff isn't just a destination; it's the beginning of countless stories you'll cherish forever. Having explored the exclusive on-board services designed to enhance your comfort, let's focus on how you can maximize your Vancouver to Banff trip experience.
The platform's designed to ensure you can tailor the service to your exact needs, making your trip comfortable and hassle-free. From the moment you arrive to the minute you depart, Banff Transport's expansive destination coverage guarantees that your travel within and around Vancouver is nothing short of exceptional. You'll find that planning your trip is as effortless as the ride itself. They're not just about getting you from point A to B; they're about ensuring you arrive precisely when you need to.

Luxury Private Car Service Vancouver
Luxury Corporate Event Transportation Vancouver
Luxury Corporate Event Transportation Vancouver

This ensures that your driver isn't only experienced but also prepared to handle any situation that might arise during your trip. He says, 'Banff Transport has transformed my trips to Vancouver. They can help customize your journey, whether it's adjusting the route to include scenic stops or ensuring specific amenities are on board. These services often include plush, spacious seating that allows you to relax or work in a tranquil environment. We can arrange that.

With a fleet designed to impress and services that cater to the most discerning travelers, you're likely curious about how this could change your travel routine. We also prioritize maintaining a transparent line of communication with you throughout your journey. In winter, the snowy landscape offers breathtaking views, but it also means you'll need to pack warm clothing and be prepared for potential delays due to weather. You won't find these opportunities in standard travel itineraries.

You'll be amazed at the level of comfort and convenience they describe. Whether you're drawn to the serene beauty of snow-capped mountains, the thrill of skiing down pristine slopes, or the charm of quaint, historic towns, we've got you covered. Our fleet consists of high-end vehicles equipped with the latest amenities to ensure your ride is as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. That's what Mark, a frequent business traveler, raves about.

This flexibility extends to last-minute changes. You're treated to spacious, climate-controlled vehicles equipped with plush seating and ample legroom, allowing you to relax or work in peace as you traverse the breathtaking landscapes between Vancouver and Banff. This isn't just travel; it's a retreat from the world, a space where you can breathe freely, away from prying eyes and the clamor of crowds. After exploring the overarching benefits of luxury private transportation for cruise terminal and ferry port transfers, let's now highlight the specific features that distinguish this service.

Luxury Prom Limo

  1. Luxury Limousine
  2. Luxury Transportation Company
  3. Luxury Hotel Transfer
  4. Private Executive Car
  5. VIP Transportation
  6. Private SUV Transportation
  7. VIP Travel Service
  8. High-End Shuttle
  9. Private Limo
  10. Executive Chauffeur
  11. Luxury Group Transportation
  12. VIP Car Service
  13. Luxury Town Car
  14. Luxury Ground Transportation
  15. Luxury Wedding Transport
  16. High-End Car Service
  17. Luxury Travel Transportation
  18. Private Chauffeur
  19. VIP Airport Pickup
  20. Executive Transportation


Business Travel Limo Service Vancouver

You'll appreciate the quiet, smooth ride while knowing you're contributing to a healthier planet. Plush seating envelops you in comfort, making even the longest trips feel like a retreat. As you venture beyond Vancouver, let's transport you seamlessly to the breathtaking landscapes of Banff, where adventure awaits at every turn. You're not just getting a ride; you're being provided with a service that's meticulously designed around your needs and preferences.
You don't have to navigate through complex steps or wait on lengthy phone calls. Our guests were impressed by the comfort and style of the transportation.

Luxury Fleet

  1. Private Airport Transfer
  2. Premium Limo Service
  3. Luxury Transfer Service
  4. Private Chauffeured Van
  5. Private VIP Car Service
  6. Luxury Travel Concierge
  7. Luxury Limousine
  8. Luxury Transportation Company
  9. Luxury Hotel Transfer
  10. Private Executive Car
  11. VIP Transportation
  12. Private SUV Transportation
  13. VIP Travel Service
  14. High-End Shuttle
  15. Private Limo
Each chauffeur undergoes extensive background checks and continuous training to meet the highest safety and service standards.

Luxury Private Coach

  1. Luxury Limousine Rental
  2. Business Executive Shuttle
  3. Luxury Airport Shuttle
  4. High-End Chauffeur
  5. Luxury Ride Share
  6. Airport Limo
  7. Luxury Van Service
  8. Luxury Ride
  9. Luxury Fleet
  10. Luxury Prom Limo
  11. Corporate Car Service
  12. Luxury Private Coach
  13. Luxury Airport Pickup
  14. Private Car Service
  15. Executive Limo
  16. Private Event Transportation
  17. Private Chauffeured Van
  18. Private VIP Car Service
  19. Luxury Travel Concierge

Once you've filled in the necessary details, you'll be prompted to review the available vehicle options. If you're keen on exploring at your own pace, renting electric bikes is a fantastic option. Whether it's a quick downtown pickup or a leisurely tour around Vancouver's scenic routes, they've got you covered.
They're not stopping at mere comfort; they're pushing the boundaries towards an eco-friendly future, transitioning to electric vehicles that promise both luxury and a lighter footprint on our planet. Banff Transport takes care of all the details, from planning optimal routes to managing luggage space. Our professional chauffeurs handle all the details, allowing you to focus on what matters most - making memories.

Explore Luxury Sprinter Van Rental Vancouver here
Business Travel Limo 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.

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See also

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References

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  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

 

Frequently Asked Questions

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