Luxury Transportation To Ski Resorts From Vancouver

Luxury Transportation To Ski Resorts From Vancouver

Airport Limo

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

Luxury Private Coach

  1. Luxury Van Service
  2. Executive Chauffeur
  3. Luxury Private Coach
  4. Luxury SUV Rental
  5. Luxury Van Service
  6. Executive Chauffeur
  7. Luxury Private Coach
  8. Luxury SUV Rental
  9. Luxury Van Service
  10. Executive Chauffeur
  11. Luxury Private Coach
  12. Luxury SUV Rental
  13. Luxury Van Service
  14. Executive Chauffeur
  15. Luxury Private Coach
  16. Luxury SUV Rental
  17. Luxury Van Service
  18. Executive Chauffeur
  19. Luxury Private Coach
It turned a long drive into a delightful experience.' This kind of feedback is common, underscoring our commitment to providing a top-tier travel experience. What sets them apart?
There's ample legroom, ensuring you arrive as refreshed as when you set off. And it doesn't stop at the vehicle type. After selecting your preferred vehicle, the next phase is confirming your reservation. Luxury vans are available, designed to cater to the needs of bigger parties without compromising on comfort or style.

You'll immediately notice the difference when you're greeted by a professional chauffeur, ready to cater to your every need. From exceptional safety standards to exclusive in-ride amenities, this service transforms a simple transit into an extraordinary experience. These eco-friendly options come equipped with all the luxurious amenities you expect, from plush seating to high-end entertainment systems, ensuring your travel is both comfortable and conscientious. You can expect your ride to arrive on time, every time, minimizing any stress related to schedules or delays. They're trained to provide a seamless experience, maintaining professionalism and discretion throughout your ride.

Their commitment to personalization extends to their drivers too, who are more than just chauffeurs-they're your personal concierges on the road. The basic tier starts with a competitive rate for smaller groups, making it an accessible option for family outings or intimate group travels. VIP Transportation In essence, every aspect of the luxury private transportation service is designed with your comfort, convenience, and satisfaction in mind, making it the ultimate choice for your Vancouver airport transfers. Next, consider your schedule.

Instead, you're whisked away on a personalized journey, tailored to your schedule and interests. Our fleet, comprised of the latest models, offers you plush interiors, ample space, and the kind of privacy that elevates your travel to more than just getting from point A to point B. Private Event Transportation It's this personalized touch that makes your journey unforgettable, transforming a simple drive into a series of delightful discoveries. Your driver handles all the logistics, ensuring you maximize your time enjoying Vancouver's highlights.

With Banff Transport's commitment to excellence, you're guaranteed a reliable, stylish, and sophisticated transportation solution that'll leave a lasting impression on your guests. Moreover, Banff Transport understands the importance of timing. This attention to detail ensures that when the day of your trip arrives, you can relax knowing everything's been taken care of. It's all about their competitive pricing strategy, designed to offer you luxury without the hefty price tag.



Private Executive Car

  • Luxury SUV Rental
  • Luxury Van Service
  • Executive Chauffeur
  • Private Luxury Car
  • Private Limo
  • Luxury Car Rental
  • Luxury Airport Pickup
  • Airport Transfer
  • Luxury Private Coach
  • Luxury SUV Rental
  • Luxury Van Service
  • Executive Chauffeur
  • Private Luxury Car
  • Private Limo
  • Luxury Car Rental

Citations and other links

High-End Travel Concierge Transportation Vancouver

High-speed Wi-Fi keeps you connected, whether you're catching up on work or streaming your favorite show.

Private Limo

  • Luxury SUV Rental
  • Luxury Van Service
  • Executive Chauffeur
  • Luxury Event Transportation
  • Luxury Hotel Shuttle
  • Private Event Transportation
  • Luxury Ride
  • VIP Car Service
  • High-End Car Service
  • VIP Transportation
  • Luxury Limousine
  • Private Luxury Car
  • Private Limo
  • Luxury Car Rental
  • Luxury Airport Pickup
  • Airport Transfer
  • Luxury Private Coach
These models cater to up to 14 passengers and don't skimp on luxury, featuring leather seats, ample legroom, and onboard Wi-Fi to keep everyone connected and entertained throughout the journey. Whether it's arranging for special amenities onboard or planning stops at hidden gems along your route, Banff Transport goes the extra mile to make your journey unforgettable. Sophia, who booked a scenic tour around Vancouver, can't stop talking about the experience. 'It was breathtaking. Moreover, Banff Transport encourages digital bookings and communications, cutting down on paper waste and contributing to their green initiative.

It's not just about getting from point A to B; it's about savoring every moment of the journey. With us, you're not just a passenger; you're a VIP, privy to insider tips on the best spots to dine, shop, and snap the perfect photo. They undergo rigorous training to meet our high standards, ensuring your safety and comfort throughout your journey. Each vehicle is equipped with tinted windows and advanced safety features, giving you peace of mind.

Each vehicle in Banff Transport's fleet is meticulously maintained, ensuring reliability and safety for your travels. Have you ever imagined gliding through Vancouver's bustling streets, ensconced in the lap of luxury, without the usual fret over navigating or parking? It's versatile enough to handle luggage while providing everyone with a comfortable seat. You'll also enjoy special rates that aren't available to the general public.

The best part? Banff Transport doesn't skimp on the details, ensuring your ride is as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. Depending on when you're traveling, you'll face different climates and conditions that could impact your journey. It's a journey where the ride is as monumental as the destination, etching memories that will last a lifetime.

High-End Travel Concierge Transportation Vancouver
Luxury Executive Transportation Vancouver

Luxury Executive Transportation Vancouver

It's not just about sitting back; it's about immersing yourself in an environment where every detail caters to your comfort and convenience. This ensures you're only paying for the space and amenities your group requires, without unnecessary costs.

Airport Limo

  • Luxury Private Coach
  • Luxury SUV Rental
  • Luxury Van Service
  • Executive Chauffeur
  • Airport Transfer
  • Luxury Private Coach
  • Luxury SUV Rental
  • Luxury Van Service
  • Executive Chauffeur
  • Airport Transfer
  • Luxury Private Coach
  • Luxury SUV Rental
  • Luxury Van Service
  • Executive Chauffeur
  • Airport Transfer
  • Luxury Private Coach
  • Luxury SUV Rental
At Banff Transport, we understand that peace of mind is priceless, especially when you're traveling for the holidays. This year, make your holiday travel not just manageable, but truly memorable.

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

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

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

Private Limo

  • Luxury Airport Pickup
  • Airport Transfer
  • Luxury Private Coach
  • Luxury SUV Rental
  • Luxury Van Service
  • Executive Chauffeur
  • Luxury Car Rental
  • Luxury Airport Pickup
  • Airport Transfer
  • Luxury Private Coach
  • Luxury SUV Rental
  • Luxury Van Service
  • Executive Chauffeur
  • Luxury Car Rental
  • Luxury Airport Pickup
  • Airport Transfer
  • Luxury Private Coach
  • Luxury SUV Rental
  • Luxury Van Service


Vancouver Private Luxury Van Service

There's no need to worry about navigating or parking; we've got it covered. That's why we've designed our transportation service to maximize your enjoyment and minimize any inconvenience. Let's handle the logistics of your airport transfer, so you can focus on enjoying your visit from the moment you arrive. It's designed for easy navigation, allowing you to quickly fill out the reservation form with your travel details. With Banff Transport, you're not just getting from point A to point B; you're indulging in a seamless blend of luxury and efficiency that makes every trip memorable.

Airport Transfer

  1. Private Executive Car
  2. Luxury Event Transportation
  3. Luxury Hotel Shuttle
  4. Private Event Transportation
  5. Luxury Ride
  6. VIP Car Service
  7. High-End Car Service
  8. VIP Transportation
  9. Luxury Limousine
  10. Private Luxury Car
  11. Private Limo
  12. Luxury Car Rental
  13. Luxury Airport Pickup
  14. Airport Transfer
  15. Luxury Private Coach


You don't have to worry about navigating through traffic or finding parking. You're not just paying for a ride; you're investing in a worry-free journey. As you step out of the luxury vehicle, the crisp mountain air will fill your lungs, and you'll immediately feel the embrace of nature that makes this place so special. You've got a couple of easy ways to secure your ride.

Let's take the wheel, and you take in the views. Following the seamless booking process, your next concern is likely the safety and reliability of your journey from Vancouver to the Sea to Sky region. So, get ready to explore more, with Banff Transport making your journey as memorable as the places you visit. With Banff Transport's luxury private transportation service in Vancouver, you're not just booking a trip; you're crafting an experience.

They're often more than happy to share their local knowledge, adding a unique touch to your journey. Discover how this meticulous attention to detail elevates your travels, leaving you curious about the layers of luxury that set Banff Transport apart. It's about feeling pampered, valued, and excited about every mile you cover. You don't have to worry about timing, routes, or weather conditions.

Vancouver Private Luxury Van Service
Canada Place Cruise Transfer Vancouver
Canada Place Cruise Transfer Vancouver

Upon reaching Banff, you'll be greeted by its stunning mountain vistas and quaint town charm, setting the stage for an unforgettable adventure. You'll bypass the crowds and the stress of navigating on your own, focusing instead on the breathtaking views and vibrant culture that define this coastal city. They're also transparent about pricing, so you'll know exactly what you're paying for without any surprises. From customized family packages that consider the littlest travelers to group travel solutions that ensure everyone's comfort and enjoyment, this service is setting a new standard.
Diving deeper, you'll find that each service isn't just about transportation; it's about creating memorable experiences. This personalized approach guarantees not just satisfaction but a journey that feels uniquely yours, transforming ordinary trips into unforgettable experiences. Selecting the right vehicle for your luxury trip from Vancouver Airport to Banff is crucial to ensuring your journey is as comfortable and stylish as you envision.
You don't need to navigate through complicated websites or deal with lengthy phone calls. You're dealing with professionals who know the importance of punctuality, discretion, and personalized attention. VIP Car Service But that's not all. Luxury Event Transportation Read more about Luxury Transportation To Ski Resorts From Vancouver here
Moreover, their professional chauffeurs are trained to provide exceptional service, making sure your event transportation is seamless and stress-free. In essence, Banff Transport's service is designed to elevate your travel experience. They even added thoughtful touches to make our trip extra special.

Private Transfer to Banff National Park from Vancouver

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

Luxury Ride

  1. Private Limo
  2. Luxury Car Rental
  3. Luxury Airport Pickup
  4. Airport Transfer
  5. Luxury Private Coach
  6. Luxury SUV Rental
  7. Luxury Van Service
  8. Executive Chauffeur
  9. VIP Transportation
  10. Luxury Limousine
  11. Private Luxury Car
  12. Private Limo
  13. Luxury Car Rental
  14. Luxury Airport Pickup
  15. Airport Transfer
  16. Luxury Private Coach
  17. Luxury SUV Rental
  18. Luxury Van Service
  19. Executive Chauffeur

Moreover, the professionalism of Banff Transport's drivers sets them apart. You're in safe hands, as their commitment to your health extends beyond the vehicle's cleanliness. Their team is dedicated to making your family's travel as enjoyable and stress-free as possible, tailoring every aspect of the service to meet your specific desires and needs.

Luxury Hotel Shuttle

  1. Executive Chauffeur
  2. Luxury Airport Pickup
  3. Airport Transfer
  4. Luxury Private Coach
  5. Luxury SUV Rental
  6. Luxury Van Service
  7. Executive Chauffeur
  8. Luxury Airport Pickup
  9. Airport Transfer
  10. Luxury Private Coach
  11. Luxury SUV Rental
  12. Luxury Van Service
  13. Executive Chauffeur
  14. Luxury Airport Pickup
  15. Airport Transfer
Securing your spot for a luxurious journey with Banff Transport is a straightforward process, ensuring you and your group can enjoy top-notch transportation without any hassle.
Safety's also a top priority, with each vehicle equipped with the latest safety features to ensure your peace of mind. Understanding your unique travel needs, Banff Transport offers personalized travel plans tailored specifically for you. It felt like our vacation started the moment we were picked up.'And it's not just about the comfort and the luxury. Private Luxury Car The beauty of opting for a private service lies in the flexibility to stop and fully soak in these breathtaking landscapes.

VIP Transportation

  1. Luxury SUV Rental
  2. Luxury Van Service
  3. Executive Chauffeur
  4. Luxury SUV Rental
  5. Luxury Van Service
  6. Executive Chauffeur
  7. Luxury SUV Rental
  8. Luxury Van Service
  9. Executive Chauffeur
  10. Luxury SUV Rental
  11. Luxury Van Service
  12. Executive Chauffeur
  13. Luxury SUV Rental
  14. Luxury Van Service
  15. Executive Chauffeur

As we peel back the layers on what makes this offering a must for discerning travelers, you'll find compelling customer testimonials that speak volumes of its value. Moreover, their customer service is just a click or call away, ready to assist with any inquiries or special requests. Moreover, booking and rescheduling are made simple. You can select your preferred type of music, specify the car temperature, or request specific amenities like bottled water, snacks, or even a particular type of car seat for your little ones.

Explore Luxury Transportation To Ski Resorts From Vancouver here
Private Transfer to Banff National Park from 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.
  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

Yes, you can request specific drivers for your trips if you've had a positive experience with them before. It's a great way to ensure your journey is comfortable and meets your personal preferences.

You'll find the luxury vehicles for your trip highly accessible if you have disabilities. They're equipped to ensure comfort and ease, making your journey smooth. Just make sure to mention your needs when booking.

If your vehicle breaks down or there's an unexpected delay, Banff Transport promptly provides a replacement vehicle or takes necessary steps to ensure you still reach your destination on time, minimizing any inconvenience.