Downtown Vancouver Private Car Service

Downtown Vancouver Private Car Service

Luxury Event Car Service

For those in a small group, perhaps with family or close friends, an SUV offers the ideal blend of space and luxury. Imagine pausing your trip to marvel at the breathtaking views of Lake Louise or to explore the quaint streets of Jasper. Private VIP Car Service 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. Learn more about Downtown Vancouver Private Car Service here Moreover, their experienced drivers are more than just chauffeurs; they're your personal guides to the region. For entertainment, there's onboard Wi-Fi and state-of-the-art multimedia systems, ensuring that both kids and adults stay entertained throughout the ride.
And when the sun sets, Vancouver's nightlife beckons. It's not just about sitting back; it's about immersing yourself in an environment where every detail caters to your comfort and convenience. Before you even step foot in one of their luxury vehicles, it's been thoroughly cleaned and disinfected. Their fleet consists of the latest, meticulously maintained vehicles, ensuring a smooth and stylish journey every time.
Before you step in, rest assured that your ride has been meticulously prepared to meet the highest standards of hygiene and mechanical performance. Whether you're seeking a one-time pickup for a special occasion or need regular transport services for business, there's a tailored option just for you. That's what Mark, a frequent business traveler, raves about. So, for those looking for a travel experience that combines luxury with reliability, Banff Transport is the clear choice. Learn more about Luxury Private Transportation Service Vancouver BC here.
First up, luxury private transfers redefine travel comfort, offering a personalized experience that caters to your schedule and preferences. Another customer, Mark, highlights the exceptional customer service during a corporate event. 'The team handled every detail with professionalism. 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. As you contemplate the convenience of moving around the city with unparalleled ease, consider the blend of sophistication and comfort that awaits you.

You'll also appreciate our complimentary Wi-Fi, allowing you to catch up on work or share your travel excitement online without delay. These testimonials showcase the transformative impact of choosing luxury private transportation for your travel needs. You won't find a one-size-fits-all approach here. Our SUVs and stretch limousines also offer additional space and amenities, making them perfect for groups or special occasions. Luxury Event Car Service Moreover, the option to customize extends to the type of vehicle you prefer, the onboard amenities, and even the route taken.

Imagine stepping into a luxurious vehicle, where comfort meets convenience. As your party size increases, so does the complexity of your transportation needs. Don't just stick to the well-trodden paths; ask your driver for insider tips on hidden gems that most tourists miss. Beyond the luxury of our fleet, you'll find our professional chauffeurs are the cornerstone of the exceptional service we provide. Luxury Travel Concierge

You're not just moving between two points; you're embarking on a voyage through diverse ecosystems and geological wonders. By streamlining their operations and focusing on efficiency, they manage to cut unnecessary costs, passing these savings directly to you. This flexibility ensures that whether you're looking for a simple airport transfer or a more elaborate travel arrangement, you'll get the best value for your money. 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.

The possibilities are endless. Accommodating up to 56 passengers, these buses offer reclining seats, overhead storage, and onboard restrooms, making long-distance travel a breeze. Privacy elevates your journey from Vancouver to Banff, transforming it into an exclusive experience tailored just for you. Banff Transport also offers excursions to Whistler, Victoria, and even across the border to Seattle.

Citations and other links

Premium Ride Service Vancouver

Our commitment is to provide you with a luxurious, reliable, and comfortable experience from start to finish.

Luxury Event Car Service

  1. Airport Limo
  2. Luxury Travel Service
  3. Luxury Private Coach
  4. VIP Car Service
  5. Private Executive Car
  6. Private Event Transportation
  7. Luxury Sedan Rental
  8. Luxury Airport Shuttle
  9. Executive Van Service
  10. Luxury Corporate Travel
  11. Business Executive Shuttle
  12. Luxury Airport Pickup
  13. VIP Transportation
  14. Executive Car Service
  15. Luxury City Tour
  16. Luxury Hotel Shuttle
  17. Corporate Executive Transport
  18. Luxury Sedan Service
  19. High-End Shuttle
You've got the freedom to select the vehicle that best suits your style and needs, from luxury sedans for a more intimate setting to spacious SUVs for larger groups wanting to share the adventure together. You'll also enjoy special rates that aren't available to the general public. It's not just about getting from A to B; it's about how you feel during the journey.

You'll find a variety of shops selling local crafts, cozy cafes, and restaurants that serve a range of delicious dishes, from hearty Canadian fare to international cuisine. Prefer to head straight to Banff with minimal stops? The system instantly shows you the available options along with detailed descriptions and prices, so you can make an informed choice without any guesswork.

After you've made your selection, you'll be asked to provide a few personal details and confirm your booking. However, the allure of this travel experience doesn't stop at just comfort and views; it extends to the seamless booking process, the reliability and safety measures in place, and the eco-friendly luxury options available. The service prides itself on ensuring you arrive at your destination on time, every time, making it reliable for tight schedules.

These testimonials underline Banff Transport's commitment to delivering a high-quality, personalized service. Whether you're celebrating an anniversary, attending a prestigious gala, or making an entrance at your wedding, we've got you covered. You've got it.

Premium Ride Service Vancouver
Vancouver Luxury Travel Service

Vancouver Luxury Travel Service

Fancy a closer look at the majestic Shannon Falls or the awe-inspiring Stawamus Chief? They'll handle it. With round-the-clock customer support and a straightforward booking process, you're in good hands. You don't have to navigate through complex steps or wait on lengthy phone calls. Each snapshot and memory you gather along this route will remind you of the unmatched scenic views that only this part of the world can offer, making every moment of your journey unforgettable.
Your driver is a professional, knowing the best routes to get you to your destination efficiently and safely. Safety's also a top priority, with each vehicle equipped with the latest safety features to ensure your peace of mind. They're on it. Your luxury transport service should have vehicles equipped for icy roads, ensuring a safe and comfortable ride.
These exclusive stops are tailored to your interests, whether you're an avid hiker, a food lover, or a photography enthusiast. Each package is clearly outlined on their website, making it easy for you to compare options and select the best one for your situation. Your wish is their command. Need to make a stop before reaching your final destination? Read more about Downtown Vancouver Private Car Service here
Where can Banff Transport take you on your next Vancouver visit? Your personal space is respected, ensuring a tranquil environment where you can unwind or focus on work without interruptions. You'll find that each vehicle in their fleet isn't just a means to get you from point A to B but a luxurious experience designed to cater to your every need. High-End Shuttle Lastly, special requests and additional services like child seats, extra luggage space, or specific entertainment options are accommodated with clear, upfront costs.

Family SUV Transportation Vancouver

The beauty of opting for a private service lies in the flexibility to stop and fully soak in these breathtaking landscapes. Just as a meticulously planned family vacation can turn an ordinary weekend into an unforgettable escape, Banff Transport's launch of an enhanced luxury private transportation service in Vancouver aims to transform your journey into an extraordinary experience.

Luxury Travel Service

  1. VIP Transportation
  2. Executive Car Service
  3. Luxury City Tour
  4. Luxury Hotel Shuttle
  5. Corporate Executive Transport
  6. Private Event Transportation
  7. Luxury Sedan Rental
  8. Luxury Airport Shuttle
  9. Executive Van Service
  10. Luxury Corporate Travel
  11. Business Executive Shuttle
  12. Luxury Airport Pickup
  13. VIP Transportation
  14. Executive Car Service
  15. Luxury City Tour
  16. Luxury Hotel Shuttle
  17. Corporate Executive Transport
  18. Private Event Transportation
  19. Luxury Sedan Rental
  20. Luxury Airport Shuttle
Luxury Travel Service You can choose from a range of vehicles that ensure comfort for the whole family, from luxury sedans for smaller groups to spacious SUVs and vans for larger parties. You'll also appreciate the personalized climate control, allowing you to adjust the environment to suit everyone's comfort levels.

Your driver knows the perfect times to visit these places, ensuring you get an intimate experience. Delving into the specifics, luxury private transportation offers a range of service features designed to ensure your journey is as comfortable as it's seamless.

Luxury Travel Service

  1. Luxury Travel Service
  2. Luxury Private Coach
  3. VIP Car Service
  4. Private Executive Car
  5. Private Event Transportation
  6. Luxury Sedan Rental
  7. Luxury Airport Shuttle
  8. Executive Van Service
  9. Luxury Corporate Travel
  10. Business Executive Shuttle
  11. Luxury Airport Pickup
  12. VIP Transportation
  13. Executive Car Service
  14. Luxury City Tour
  15. Luxury Hotel Shuttle
  16. Corporate Executive Transport
  17. Luxury Travel Service
  18. Luxury Private Coach
  19. VIP Car Service
You'll ride with peace of mind, knowing that every precaution is taken to maintain your security and comfort.

With them at the wheel, you're assured of a timely and serene transit, allowing you to savor every moment of your journey. Moreover, their professional chauffeurs are trained to provide exceptional service, making sure your event transportation is seamless and stress-free. You're not just booking a ride; you're securing an experience that blends comfort, elegance, and punctuality seamlessly.

Whether you're seeking the sleek elegance of a limousine for a special occasion or the robust comfort of an SUV for a family adventure, they've got you covered.

Luxury Private Coach

  1. Luxury Airport Pickup
  2. VIP Transportation
  3. Executive Car Service
  4. Luxury City Tour
  5. Luxury Hotel Shuttle
  6. Corporate Executive Transport
  7. Private VIP Car Service
  8. Luxury Travel Concierge
  9. Private Luxury Car
  10. Airport Limo
  11. Luxury Travel Service
  12. Luxury Private Coach
  13. VIP Car Service
  14. Private Executive Car
  15. Private Event Transportation
To finalize your booking, you'll enter your payment information through their secure system. Moreover, Banff Transport's vehicles undergo regular, rigorous inspections to ensure they meet and exceed industry safety standards.

Family SUV Transportation Vancouver
Corporate Limo Vancouver
Corporate Limo Vancouver

This exclusive service ensures you're picked up and dropped off right at your doorstep or the terminal, eliminating the stress of navigating through traffic or worrying about parking. And it doesn't stop at the vehicle type. High-speed Wi-Fi keeps you connected, whether you're catching up on work or streaming your favorite show. 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. This means you'll enjoy the highest standards of service, whether you're heading to a corporate event, a scenic tour, or the airport.

In the realm of luxury private transportation, ensuring your journey is as safe and secure as possible remains our top priority. You'll find numerous testimonials highlighting how the seamless booking process and punctual arrivals transformed their travel into a stress-free journey. Emily R.

High-End Shuttle

  1. Limousine Rental
  2. Private VIP Car Service
  3. Luxury Travel Concierge
  4. Private Luxury Car
  5. Airport Limo
  6. Luxury Travel Service
  7. Luxury Private Coach
  8. VIP Car Service
  9. Private Executive Car
  10. Private Event Transportation
  11. Luxury Sedan Rental
  12. Luxury Airport Shuttle
  13. Executive Van Service
  14. Luxury Corporate Travel
  15. Business Executive Shuttle
  16. Luxury Airport Pickup
  17. VIP Transportation
  18. Executive Car Service
  19. Luxury City Tour
  20. Luxury Hotel Shuttle
couldn't stop praising the punctuality and comfort, sharing, 'They were right on time, and the ride was so smooth and comfortable.

VIP Airport Pickup

  1. Executive Van Service
  2. Luxury Corporate Travel
  3. Business Executive Shuttle
  4. Luxury Airport Pickup
  5. VIP Transportation
  6. Executive Car Service
  7. Luxury City Tour
  8. Luxury Hotel Shuttle
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  10. VIP Car Service
  11. Private Executive Car
  12. Private Event Transportation
  13. Luxury Sedan Rental
  14. Luxury Airport Shuttle
  15. Executive Van Service
Lastly, you'll be part of a rewards program that appreciates your loyalty.

Next, consider your schedule. For those special occasions or when you simply crave the utmost in sophistication, the luxury limousines await to transform your journey into an unforgettable affair. These images will serve as timeless reminders of your special day. Opt for a specific playlist to get you in the mood for your destination, request onboard refreshments to enjoy en route, or even specify the route to take if you've got scenic preferences or places of interest you want to see along the way.

In short, luxury travel with a service like Banff Transport transforms a simple journey into a memorable experience. Imagine gliding along the Sea to Sky Highway, where each turn unveils panoramic vistas that seem painted by the hand of nature itself.

VIP Car Service

  1. Airport Limo
  2. Luxury Travel Service
  3. Luxury Private Coach
  4. VIP Car Service
  5. Private Executive Car
  6. Private Event Transportation
  7. Luxury Sedan Rental
  8. Luxury Airport Shuttle
  9. Executive Van Service
  10. Luxury Corporate Travel
  11. Business Executive Shuttle
  12. Luxury Airport Pickup
  13. VIP Transportation
  14. Executive Car Service
  15. Luxury City Tour
  16. Luxury Hotel Shuttle
  17. Corporate Executive Transport
  18. Airport Limo
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 seamless booking process is just the beginning of a luxurious, worry-free travel experience from Vancouver to the Sea to Sky region.

Luxury Sedan Service Vancouver

Choosing Banff Transport means you're opting for a service that places your health and safety at the forefront, without compromising on luxury or convenience.

Luxury Travel Service

  • Luxury Sedan Rental
  • Luxury Airport Shuttle
  • Executive Van Service
  • Luxury Corporate Travel
  • Business Executive Shuttle
  • Luxury Airport Pickup
  • VIP Transportation
  • Executive Car Service
  • Luxury City Tour
  • Luxury Hotel Shuttle
  • Corporate Executive Transport
  • VIP Airport Pickup
  • Luxury Sedan Service
  • High-End Shuttle
  • Limousine Rental
  • Private VIP Car Service
  • Luxury Travel Concierge
  • Private Luxury Car
As you contemplate the array of vehicle options and the bespoke services available, remember that this is more than a journey-it's a gateway to an unforgettable adventure. These moments can become some of the most memorable parts of your trip.

Luxury Travel Service

  • Executive Van Service
  • Luxury Corporate Travel
  • Business Executive Shuttle
  • Luxury Airport Pickup
  • VIP Transportation
  • Executive Car Service
  • Luxury City Tour
  • Luxury Hotel Shuttle
  • Corporate Executive Transport
  • Luxury Sedan Rental
  • Luxury Airport Shuttle
  • Executive Van Service
  • Luxury Corporate Travel
  • Business Executive Shuttle
  • Luxury Airport Pickup
  • VIP Transportation
  • Executive Car Service
  • Luxury City Tour
  • Luxury Hotel Shuttle
  • Corporate Executive Transport
To enhance your journey, the luxury private transportation service in Vancouver offers a selection of premium vehicles tailored to your preferences.
Moreover, flexibility is key. It felt like a premium experience from start to finish.'Jasmine T. appreciated the attention to detail, saying, 'From the moment I booked, everything was handled so efficiently. This commitment extends to your journey as well; the vehicles are equipped with privacy features, including tinted windows and soundproofing, ensuring your conversations remain private.
Whether it's a leisurely stroll around Lake Louise or a challenging hike up Sulphur Mountain, you're making a choice that benefits both the environment and your health. Whether you're a local or a visitor, they've got the expertise to transform your travel into an effortless, premium experience. Need to make multiple stops or have a flexible schedule?

Limousine Rental

  • Luxury Corporate Travel
  • Business Executive Shuttle
  • Luxury Airport Pickup
  • VIP Transportation
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  • Luxury City Tour
  • Luxury Hotel Shuttle
  • Corporate Executive Transport
  • Private Executive Car
  • Private Event Transportation
  • Luxury Sedan Rental
  • Luxury Airport Shuttle
  • Executive Van Service
  • Luxury Corporate Travel
  • Business Executive Shuttle
  • Luxury Airport Pickup

It transforms a simple transfer into an integral part of your adventure, setting the tone for an unforgettable visit to Banff. You won't find these opportunities in standard travel itineraries. Let us handle the details while you sit back and enjoy the journey.

Explore Downtown Vancouver Private Car Service here
Luxury Sedan Service Vancouver

 

A chauffeur in Japan standing next to a Nissan Fuga

A chauffeur ( French pronunciation: [ʃɔ.fœʁ]) is a person employed to drive passenger motor vehicle, especially a luxury vehicle such as a large sedan, SUV or a limousine.

Initially, such drivers were often personal employees of the vehicle owner, but this has changed to specialist chauffeur service companies or individual drivers that provide both driver and vehicle for hire. Some service companies merely offer the driver.

History

[edit]
A chauffeur in Glasgow during World War I

The term chauffeur comes from the dominance of French motor manufacturers in the 1890s and their use of Daimler engines with hot tube ignitors. These required heating (chauffer) with a Bunsen burner before the engine would work. This delicate procedure and the maintenance of the platinum tubes was the work of a chauffeur who also maintained and could drive the car.[1][2] From 1900, magneto ignition took over, but as cars got faster, pneumatic tyres became essential and were subject to punctures.[3] The role of chauffeur evolved into that of driver, mechanic and maker of running repairs.

Only the wealthy could afford the first cars. In the 1890s, cars were open, often had a single bench seat and were driven by their owners. From 1900 they became practical transport and owners employed chauffeurs rather than driving themselves. A 1906 article in The New York Times reported that "the chauffeur problem to-day is one of the most serious that the automobilist has to deal with", and complained that "young men of no particular ability, who have been earning from $10 to $12 a week, are suddenly elevated to salaried positions paying from $25 to $50" and recommended the re-training of existing coach drivers.[4]

Scope

[edit]

While the term may refer to anybody who drives for a living, it usually implies a driver of an elegant passenger vehicle such as a horse-drawn carriage, luxury sedan, motor coach, or especially a limousine; those who operate buses or non-passenger vehicles are generally referred to as "drivers". In some countries, particularly developing nations where a ready supply of labor ensures that even the middle classes can afford domestic staff and among the wealthy,[5] the chauffeur may simply be called the "driver".

Some people may employ chauffeurs full-time to drive them in their vehicles, while professional services offer on-request limousines or rental cars that include chauffeurs.[6] This is similar to but much more luxurious than taking a taxicab. A variety of benefits are cited for using chauffeurs, including convenience, productivity, and time savings,[7] and driving safety for business people[8] and seniors.[9] Insurance costs for luxury vehicles are often lower if the designated driver is a chauffeur.[5]

The legal requirements for being a chauffeur vary depending on the local jurisdiction and class of vehicle. In some cases, a simple permit is required. Still, in others, an additional professional license with specific minimum standards in areas such as age, health, driving experience, criminal record, local geographic knowledge, or training is needed.[10][11]

Training

[edit]
The first examination of chauffeurs under a new law, New York, 1910

In addition to the minimum legal requirements, limousine companies often require their chauffeurs to undergo specific extra training.[12][13] These courses may involve evasive driving or defensive driving techniques, the proper methods to ensure safety in the most extreme conditions, such as inclement weather, a flat tire at high speeds, or other exterior influences for loss of vehicular control, etc.[14]

Many companies also have courses on what they expect from their chauffeurs. Chauffeurs may be taught proper etiquette when they are in the presence of their clientele. They may also be trained for services to the client beyond the car itself, such as for a personal valet or bodyguard.[15]

Many companies and local licensing agencies require random drug screening for chauffeurs.[16] There have been increased requirements for compliance in drug and alcohol testing in the United States.[17] The problem was highlighted after professional ice hockey player Vladimir Konstantinov's career-ending injuries when his recently hired chauffeur, Richard Gnida, lost control of their limousine and crashed.[18][19] Another concern are company drug and alcohol policies for chauffeurs in those states where marijuana is legal because of the potential impact and impairment to perform their job safely and effectively.[20]

Notable chauffeurs

[edit]

In fiction

[edit]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ Johnson, Erik (1986). The Dawn of Motoring. Milton Keynes: Mercedes-Benz (UK ) Ltd. pp. 28–29. ISBN 0951062506.
  2. ^ Hutton, J.Ernest (1902). Harmsworth, Alfred (ed.). Motors and Motor-Driving (2nd ed.). London: Longmans, Green & Co. pp. 138–142.
  3. ^ Freeston, C.L. (1902). Harmsworth, Alfred (ed.). Motors and Motor Driving (2nd ed.). London: Longmans, Green & Co. pp. 224–237.
  4. ^ "Chauffeurs Lord It Over Their Employers; Big Salaries Turn the Heads of Automobile Drivers. They Scorn Menial Work Garage Managers Also Have Trouble with Them -- A Better Class Being Turned Out by the Schools". The New York Times. 12 August 1906. p. 16. Retrieved 12 December 2016.
  5. ^ a b Sanger, David E. (23 September 2010). "Once Around the Block, James, and Pick Me Up After My Nap". The New York Times. p. 7. Retrieved 31 October 2010.
  6. ^ Stern, Linda (1 October 2007). "Hey, Look, Boss: No Hands!". Newsweek. Archived from the original on 14 September 2009. Retrieved 14 November 2009.
  7. ^ Villano, Matt (17 September 2007). "A Chauffeur Role That Tries Harder". The New York Times. Retrieved 14 November 2009.
  8. ^ "Driven To Distraction: Mobile Office Gone Too Far?". NBC5. Chicago. 24 September 2007. Archived from the original on 15 October 2007. Retrieved 31 January 2021.
  9. ^ "Too Old To Drive?". The Rachael Ray Show. MMVII KWP Studios. 10 October 2007. Archived from the original on 11 January 2008. Retrieved 14 November 2009.
  10. ^ "Licensing". Transport for London. Mayor of London. Retrieved 17 February 2025.
  11. ^ "FAQ". NYC Taxi and Limousine Commission. Archived from the original on 28 May 2010. Retrieved 25 November 2018.
  12. ^ Blain, James (15 May 2024). "Creating the Ideal Chauffeur Training Plan". chauffeurdriven.com. Retrieved 17 February 2025.[dead link]
  13. ^ "Benchmark & Best Practices – Chauffeur Training". chauffeurdriven.com. 8 March 2016. Retrieved 17 February 2025.[dead link]
  14. ^ "Chauffeur & VIP Close Protection Driver Course Review". thechauffeur.com. 8 April 2016. Retrieved 17 February 2025.
  15. ^ Elliott, Hannah (24 November 2024). "What I learnt about luxury at the Rolls-Royce school for chauffeurs". indiatimes.com. Bloomberg. Retrieved 17 February 2025.
  16. ^ "Benchmark & Best Practices – Drug Testing". chauffeurdriven.com. 8 November 2015. Retrieved 17 February 2025.
  17. ^ "Update Required: New Regulations for Drug and Alcohol Testing". chauffeurdriven.com. 30 March 2020. Archived from the original on 3 February 2023. Retrieved 17 February 2025.
  18. ^ Windsor, Shawn (6 October 2007). "2007's Top Wings Stories: Remembering the crash that ruined Stanley Cup celebration". Freep.com. Gannett. Archived from the original on 7 June 2011. Thirty-two laws took effect in 1999 amid mounting evidence that thousands of people with suspended or revoked licenses were driving, despite numerous alcohol-related convictions and serious traffic violations.
  19. ^ "Ex-Wings Limo Driver Arrested". CBS News. Associated Press. 2 July 1999. Retrieved 19 September 2008.
  20. ^ Holden, Tom (15 July 2024). "You Probably Need to Update Your Company's Drug and Alcohol Policy". chauffeurdriven.com. Archived from the original on 13 August 2024. Retrieved 17 February 2025.
  21. ^ Kempka, Erich (2010). I Was Hitler's Chauffeur - The Memoir of Erich Kempka. Pen & Sword Books. ISBN 9781781599723.
  22. ^ Thomas Jr., Robert McG. (25 May 1995). "Roosevelt S. Zanders, Stars' Chauffeur, Dies at 81". The New York Times. p. 8. Retrieved 25 November 2018.
  23. ^ Palm, Matthew J. (21 January 2021). "In 'Daisy,' Michael Morman's in the driver's seat again". Orlando Sentinel. Retrieved 31 January 2021.
  24. ^ Bauer, Patricia (17 December 2017). "Driving Miss Daisy: Plot, Cast, Awards, & Facts". Encyclopedia Britannica. Retrieved 31 January 2021.
[edit]
  • Media related to Chauffeurs at Wikimedia Commons

 

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

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

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

Etymology

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

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

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

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

History

[edit]

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

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

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

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

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

Characteristics

[edit]

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

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

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

Stretch limousines

[edit]
Lincoln Town Car stretch limousine

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

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

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

Novelty limousines

[edit]

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

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

[edit]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ Garner, Bryan (July 28, 2009). Garner's Modern American Usage. Oxford University Press. ISBN 9780199874620. Archived from the original on July 7, 2023. Retrieved August 2, 2020.
  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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  7. ^ "Definition of limousine" (Complete & Unabridged Digital ed.). Collins English Dictionary. 2012. Archived from the original on April 17, 2019. Retrieved November 6, 2019.
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  10. ^ Huffman, John Pearley (January 19, 2009). "The Top Presidential Limousines of All Time". Popular Mechanics. Retrieved December 6, 2023.
  11. ^ DeWitt, Nancy (September 4, 2012). "Presidential Wheels". Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum. Retrieved December 6, 2023.
  12. ^ "A Car Fit For A President". Grundy Insurance. February 25, 2017. Retrieved December 6, 2023.
  13. ^ a b Jiménez, Jesus (2023-04-28). "The Long Demise of the Stretch Limousine". The New York Times. Archived from the original on 2023-04-30. Retrieved 2023-04-30.
  14. ^ Theobald, Mark; DeWinter IV, Bernie (2004). "Armbruster & Company, Tom Armbruster, Ed Robben, Armbruster/Stageway, Fort Smith, Airport Limousine, Earnhart & Johansen". coachbuilt.com. Archived from the original on 26 March 2023. Retrieved 28 December 2022.
  15. ^ Strohl, Daniel (23 September 2018). "1969 AMC Ambassador Limousine". Hemmings. Archived from the original on 28 December 2022. Retrieved 28 December 2022.
  16. ^ "Dave's Classic Limousines Pictures: Novelty Limousines". Archived from the original on July 12, 2015. Retrieved June 27, 2015.
  17. ^ Naylor, Sharon (2004). 1000 Best Wedding Bargains. Sourcebooks. p. 198. ISBN 978-1-4022-0298-8. Retrieved June 27, 2015. novelty limousines.
[edit]
  • The dictionary definition of limousine at Wiktionary
  • Media related to Limousines at Wikimedia Commons

 

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