Professional Driver Car Service Vancouver

Professional Driver Car Service Vancouver

Luxury Limousine

Their streamlined online platform allows you to select your preferred luxury vehicle, specify pickup and drop-off times, and even customize your ride preferences in a matter of minutes. Learn more about Professional Driver Car Service Vancouver here Want a car stocked with your favorite snacks and beverages? Read more about Professional Driver Car Service Vancouver here When you opt for their luxury private transportation, you're not just paying for a ride; you're investing in an experience tailored to your needs and preferences. But it's more than just physical comfort. Luxury City Tour As you journey through the breathtaking landscapes, the luxury private transportation service offers exclusive stops at hidden gems and renowned attractions, enriching your travel experience.
Moreover, the drivers are professionals who know the city inside out. Stay with us as we unveil the secrets behind their success and what sets them apart in the bustling city of Vancouver. If music isn't what you're in the mood for, there's also a selection of audiobooks and podcasts available at your fingertips. Learn more about Banff Transport here. Imagine stepping off your flight, weary from travel, and being greeted by a professional, friendly driver ready to whisk you away in a luxury vehicle. VIP Car Service
Then there's the team of chauffeurs. Whether you're after a bottle of champagne to celebrate, or simply require a child seat, they've got you covered. This includes optimizing routes to decrease fuel consumption and investing in carbon offset programs that support renewable energy projects. Luxury Party Bus Each vehicle in our fleet is meticulously maintained and equipped with the latest amenities to ensure your ride is nothing short of exceptional.
Having explored Banff Transport's pricing and packages, let's focus on what to expect when you meet your chauffeur for the first time. The kids loved the journey, and so did we!'These testimonials highlight the consistent excellence in service, luxury, and reliability that Banff Transport offers. You can also decide on the amenities you'd like onboard. And if you're curious about how Banff Transport is committing to environmental sustainability while elevating your travel experience, you'll find their approach both innovative and reassuring.

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

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

Private Limo

  • VIP Transportation
  • Luxury Party Bus
  • Luxury SUV Rental
  • Limousine Rental
  • Private Executive Car
  • Luxury Chauffeur Service
  • Luxury Car Hire
  • VIP Limo
  • Luxury Transportation Company
  • Luxury Fleet
  • Luxury Event Transportation
  • Premium Limo Service
  • High-End Shuttle
  • Executive Limo
  • Luxury Car Service
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. Luxury Limousine It felt like our vacation started the moment we were picked up.'And it's not just about the comfort and the luxury. The beauty of opting for a private service lies in the flexibility to stop and fully soak in these breathtaking landscapes. Luxury Transfer Service

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.

Citations and other links

Private SUV Airport Transfer Vancouver

What's a luxurious journey without top-tier onboard amenities to enhance your experience? You'll find that packages range from basic, point-to-point rides to comprehensive, all-inclusive tours around Vancouver's scenic spots. After exploring the benefits of luxury travel, it's time to consider how customizing your journey can further enhance your trip from Vancouver Airport to Banff. This is where the value of choosing Banff Transport truly shines through. Looking ahead, Banff Transport is set to broaden its horizons by introducing new routes and expanding its fleet to serve more destinations.

This service is designed for those who don't just go places but arrive in style and comfort. After booking your luxury ride, it's time to focus on how these moments will become unforgettable memories that last a lifetime. Banff Transport doesn't just promise a luxurious ride; they deliver a sanctuary of safety and privacy, setting a new benchmark for private transportation in Vancouver. You'll enjoy plush seating, climate control, premium audio systems, and privacy partitions.

They're trained not just in safe driving but in customer service excellence, making every interaction pleasant and every request accommodated. One client, Emily, raves about the seamless booking process and the punctuality of her driver for her wedding day. 'They didn't just meet our expectations; they exceeded them. Their commitment to discretion and punctuality means you can relax or focus on your work without any interruptions. Private Limo The climate control keeps the cabin at your ideal temperature, complementing the serene ambiance.

VIP Transportation

  1. Luxury City Tour
  2. Luxury Hotel Transfer
  3. Private Chauffeur
  4. Private Limo
  5. VIP Transportation
  6. Luxury Night Out Transport
  7. Luxury Party Bus
  8. Luxury City Tour
  9. Luxury Hotel Transfer
  10. Private Chauffeur
  11. Private Limo
  12. VIP Transportation
  13. Luxury Night Out Transport
  14. Luxury Party Bus
  15. Luxury City Tour
  16. Luxury Hotel Transfer


Picture settling into plush, leather seats that contour to your body, making every mile more comfortable than the last. Moreover, these services offer unparalleled flexibility and personalization. This confirmation will include all the pertinent details of your trip, such as the pickup time and location at Vancouver Airport, and the contact information of your driver. First up, luxury private transfers redefine travel comfort, offering a personalized experience that caters to your schedule and preferences.

Private SUV Airport Transfer Vancouver
Luxury Transportation for Special Occasions Vancouver

Luxury Transportation for Special Occasions Vancouver

Whether you're in the mood for a sleek sedan or require a spacious SUV for your party, Banff Transport has got you covered. After exploring the tailored transportation options Banff Transport offers for events, let's hear directly from customers who've experienced their luxury service first-hand. Luxury Travel Transportation You're treated to impeccably maintained interiors, climate control for your comfort, and entertainment options to make your journey more enjoyable. Our service ensures you arrive in style, whether it's at a high-end restaurant or a trendy rooftop bar.

Don't just take our word for it; our clients' experiences speak volumes about the exceptional service you'll receive with Banff Transport. Whether you're craving serenity at secluded spots or seeking adrenaline-pumping activities, they've got you covered. As a member of Banff Transport's exclusive club, you'll unlock a suite of benefits designed to enhance your travel experience significantly.

Imagine gliding through breathtaking landscapes, ensconced in your personal haven, where every detail is curated to honor your need for solitude. That's why drivers are trained in the latest health and safety guidelines, making sure they wear masks and maintain a respectful distance whenever possible. Each vehicle is meticulously maintained and equipped with privacy features, allowing you to unwind or work in peace as you travel.

It's tailored to cater to your preferences, whether you're planning a sophisticated business trip or a lavish leisure outing. Cutting-edge entertainment systems and Wi-Fi connectivity are at your fingertips, ensuring that every moment spent in transit is as enjoyable as possible. Private Chauffeur You'll find yourself enveloped in the epitome of luxury, with a selection of vehicles that boast both sophistication and cutting-edge technology.

Luxury Transportation For Executives Vancouver

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? Your journey to the cruise terminal or ferry port deserves to be as spectacular as your destination. Picture a serene moment at the base of a towering mountain or a quiet walk through a lush forest, moments crafted just for you. And with a closer look at what awaits upon arrival, it's clear this isn't an opportunity to merely move, but to be moved in ways you've yet to imagine.

Banff Transport goes beyond standard transportation by offering services customized to your unique needs and preferences. Families appreciate the hassle-free aspect, with one parent noting, 'Traveling with kids can be challenging, but the spacious vehicle and the entertainment options kept them engaged and happy throughout the journey.' It's clear that our service isn't just about getting you from point A to B; it's about making the journey as enjoyable and comfortable as the destination itself. Whether you're planning a family getaway to unseen natural wonders or organizing a group trip to bustling city events, Banff Transport's future routes will cater to your adventurous spirit. For those looking for a bit more, there are also luxury packages that include amenities such as complimentary beverages, extended wait times, and flexible scheduling.

Want to surprise your partner with a romantic ride complete with champagne and flowers? Banff Transport takes pride in their chauffeurs' ability to provide a seamless, stress-free travel experience. 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 Ground Transportation

  1. Luxury Limousine Rental
  2. Luxury City Tour
  3. Luxury Hotel Transfer
  4. Private Chauffeur
  5. Private Limo
  6. VIP Transportation
  7. Luxury Night Out Transport
  8. Luxury Party Bus
  9. High-End Shuttle
  10. Private SUV Transportation
  11. VIP Car Service
  12. Luxury Travel Transportation
  13. Luxury Limousine Rental
  14. Luxury City Tour
  15. Luxury Hotel Transfer
  16. Private Chauffeur
  17. Private Limo
  18. VIP Transportation
  19. Luxury Night Out Transport
  20. Luxury Party Bus
Luxury vans are available, designed to cater to the needs of bigger parties without compromising on comfort or style.



Luxury Ground Transportation

  1. Luxury Night Out Transport
  2. Luxury Party Bus
  3. Luxury Night Out Transport
  4. Luxury Party Bus
  5. Luxury Night Out Transport
  6. Luxury Party Bus
  7. Luxury Night Out Transport
  8. Luxury Party Bus
  9. Luxury Night Out Transport
  10. Luxury Party Bus
  11. Luxury Night Out Transport
  12. Luxury Party Bus
  13. Luxury Night Out Transport
  14. Luxury Party Bus
  15. Luxury Night Out Transport
  16. Luxury Party Bus
  17. Luxury Night Out Transport
  18. Luxury Party Bus
  19. Luxury Night Out Transport
Luxury Transportation For Executives Vancouver
Luxury Transportation for Cruise Passengers Vancouver
Luxury Transportation for Cruise Passengers Vancouver

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. 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.

Luxury City Tour

  • Private SUV Transportation
  • VIP Car Service
  • Luxury Travel Transportation
  • Luxury Limousine Rental
  • Luxury City Tour
  • Luxury Hotel Transfer
  • Private Chauffeur
  • Private Limo
  • VIP Transportation
  • Luxury Night Out Transport
  • Luxury Party Bus
  • Private SUV Transportation
  • VIP Car Service
  • Luxury Travel Transportation
  • Luxury Limousine Rental
  • Luxury City Tour
  • Luxury Hotel Transfer
  • Private Chauffeur
  • Private Limo
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. 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 Chauffeured Transportation Vancouver

Stick around to explore the luxury difference, the expansive vehicle options, and the personalized travel experiences that set Banff Transport apart. You'll find the booking interface intuitive, offering clear options for selecting your vehicle type, pick-up and drop-off locations, and travel dates. Moreover, luxury travel grants you the flexibility to explore at your own pace, make impromptu stops, and savor the breathtaking landscapes between Vancouver and Banff, all within the cocoon of safety and sophistication. With customizable travel itineraries, you're not just a passenger; you're the architect of your adventure. This seamless booking process is just the beginning of a luxurious, worry-free travel experience from Vancouver to the Sea to Sky region.
Let's say you're looking for a scenic route to your destination or need to make multiple stops along the way.

VIP Transportation

  1. Luxury Night Out Transport
  2. Luxury Party Bus
  3. Private Chauffeur
  4. Private Limo
  5. VIP Transportation
  6. Luxury Night Out Transport
  7. Luxury Party Bus
  8. Private Chauffeur
  9. Private Limo
  10. VIP Transportation
  11. Luxury Night Out Transport
  12. Luxury Party Bus
  13. Private Chauffeur
  14. Private Limo
  15. VIP Transportation
  16. Luxury Night Out Transport
  17. Luxury Party Bus
  18. Private Chauffeur
  19. Private Limo
If you're celebrating a special occasion or simply want to indulge in a bit of luxury, we're here to make that happen. Embarking from Vancouver Airport to Banff in anything less than the pinnacle of luxury is like choosing a rowboat to cross the Atlantic-it simply doesn't do the journey justice. It's all within reach.
Banff Transport's customer service team is just a phone call away.

Luxury Limousine

  • Luxury Party Bus
  • Luxury Party Bus
  • Luxury Party Bus
  • Luxury Party Bus
  • Luxury Party Bus
  • Luxury Party Bus
  • Luxury Party Bus
  • Luxury Party Bus
  • Luxury Party Bus
  • Luxury Party Bus
  • Luxury Party Bus
  • Luxury Party Bus
  • Luxury Party Bus
  • Luxury Party Bus
  • Luxury Party Bus
You don't worry about navigating traffic or parking; you simply relax, work, or even nap, arriving at your destination refreshed and ready. Understanding that every family trip is different, they've designed their service to be as flexible as you need it to be.

Luxury Event Car Service

  • VIP Transportation
  • Luxury Night Out Transport
  • Luxury Party Bus
  • VIP Car Service
  • Luxury Travel Transportation
  • Luxury Limousine Rental
  • Luxury City Tour
  • Luxury Hotel Transfer
  • Private Chauffeur
  • Private Limo
  • VIP Transportation
  • Luxury Night Out Transport
  • Luxury Party Bus
  • VIP Car Service
  • Luxury Travel Transportation
  • Luxury Limousine Rental
Consider booking your trip well in advance to avoid the holiday rush.
Connectivity is never an issue, as Wi-Fi is provided to keep you connected to the world outside as you traverse through stunning landscapes. Choosing our service means you're opting for a journey where every detail is tailored to ensure your utmost satisfaction. Traveling during the holidays shouldn't be a source of stress. It's not just a ride; it's an experience that elevates your trip from ordinary to extraordinary.

Explore Professional Driver Car Service Vancouver here
Private Chauffeured Transportation Vancouver
1908 Studebaker limousine with an open driver's compartment
1953 Rolls-Royce Phantom IV (coachwork by Hooper)

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

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

Etymology

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

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

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

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

History

[edit]

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

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

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

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

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

Characteristics

[edit]

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

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

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

Stretch limousines

[edit]
Lincoln Town Car stretch limousine

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

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

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

Novelty limousines

[edit]

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

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

[edit]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ Garner, Bryan (July 28, 2009). Garner's Modern American Usage. Oxford University Press. ISBN 9780199874620. Archived from the original on July 7, 2023. Retrieved August 2, 2020.
  2. ^ a b "Definition of limousine". merriam-webster.com. October 28, 2019. Archived from the original on September 20, 2019. Retrieved November 6, 2019.
  3. ^ "Definition of Stretch Limo". merriam-webster.com. Archived from the original on July 2, 2020. Retrieved November 6, 2019.
  4. ^ a b Dyke, Andrew Lee (1920). Dyke's Automobile and Gasoline Engine Encyclopedia (Twelfth ed.). p. 582. Archived from the original on July 7, 2023. Retrieved June 27, 2015.
  5. ^ Ayto, John (2009). Word Origins. A&C Black Publishers. ISBN 978-1-4081-0160-5. Archived from the original on July 7, 2023. Retrieved June 27, 2015.
  6. ^ a b The Random House College Dictionary. Random House. 1975. p. 777. ISBN 0-394-43600-8. 1. an automobile having a permanently enclosed compartment for from three to five persons, the roof of which projects forward over the driver's seat in front...[< F, special use of limousine long cloak, so called because worn by the shepherds of Limousin, a former province in central France]
  7. ^ "Definition of limousine" (Complete & Unabridged Digital ed.). Collins English Dictionary. 2012. Archived from the original on April 17, 2019. Retrieved November 6, 2019.
  8. ^ a b "What's What in Automobile Bodies Officially Determined". The New York Times. August 20, 1916. Archived from the original on May 2, 2014. Retrieved June 27, 2015. Here it is, with other body types and distinctions, officially determined recently by the Nomenclature Division of the Society of Automobile Engineers
  9. ^ a b c Haajanen, Lennart W. (2003). Illustrated Dictionary of Automobile Body Styles. Jefferson, NC: McFarland. p. 96. ISBN 0-7864-1276-3. Archived from the original on July 7, 2023. Retrieved January 1, 2019.
  10. ^ Huffman, John Pearley (January 19, 2009). "The Top Presidential Limousines of All Time". Popular Mechanics. Retrieved December 6, 2023.
  11. ^ DeWitt, Nancy (September 4, 2012). "Presidential Wheels". Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum. Retrieved December 6, 2023.
  12. ^ "A Car Fit For A President". Grundy Insurance. February 25, 2017. Retrieved December 6, 2023.
  13. ^ a b Jiménez, Jesus (2023-04-28). "The Long Demise of the Stretch Limousine". The New York Times. Archived from the original on 2023-04-30. Retrieved 2023-04-30.
  14. ^ Theobald, Mark; DeWinter IV, Bernie (2004). "Armbruster & Company, Tom Armbruster, Ed Robben, Armbruster/Stageway, Fort Smith, Airport Limousine, Earnhart & Johansen". coachbuilt.com. Archived from the original on 26 March 2023. Retrieved 28 December 2022.
  15. ^ Strohl, Daniel (23 September 2018). "1969 AMC Ambassador Limousine". Hemmings. Archived from the original on 28 December 2022. Retrieved 28 December 2022.
  16. ^ "Dave's Classic Limousines Pictures: Novelty Limousines". Archived from the original on July 12, 2015. Retrieved June 27, 2015.
  17. ^ Naylor, Sharon (2004). 1000 Best Wedding Bargains. Sourcebooks. p. 198. ISBN 978-1-4022-0298-8. Retrieved June 27, 2015. novelty limousines.
[edit]
  • The dictionary definition of limousine at Wiktionary
  • Media related to Limousines at Wikimedia Commons

 

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

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

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

Etymology

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

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

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

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

History

[edit]

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

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

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

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

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

Characteristics

[edit]

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

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

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

Stretch limousines

[edit]
Lincoln Town Car stretch limousine

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

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

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

Novelty limousines

[edit]

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

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

[edit]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ Garner, Bryan (July 28, 2009). Garner's Modern American Usage. Oxford University Press. ISBN 9780199874620. Archived from the original on July 7, 2023. Retrieved August 2, 2020.
  2. ^ a b "Definition of limousine". merriam-webster.com. October 28, 2019. Archived from the original on September 20, 2019. Retrieved November 6, 2019.
  3. ^ "Definition of Stretch Limo". merriam-webster.com. Archived from the original on July 2, 2020. Retrieved November 6, 2019.
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  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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