First-Class Ground Transportation Vancouver

First-Class Ground Transportation Vancouver

Luxury Ride

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. Private VIP Car Service 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. Learn more about First-Class Ground Transportation Vancouver here 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. Read more about First-Class Ground Transportation Vancouver here You'll find numerous testimonials highlighting how the seamless booking process and punctual arrivals transformed their travel into a stress-free journey. Emily R. couldn't stop praising the punctuality and comfort, sharing, 'They were right on time, and the ride was so smooth and comfortable. 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. Learn more about Luxury Private Transportation Service Vancouver BC here. 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.

Next, you'll select your vehicle of choice from their premium fleet. Every vehicle is maintained to the highest standards, ensuring that it arrives in pristine condition, ready to whisk you away without a hitch. VIP Car Service Whether you're arriving from a long flight and heading straight to your cruise or ferry, or you're returning from a serene trip and need a ride to your hotel or airport, we've got you covered. We've tailored our pricing to ensure it's transparent and competitive, providing you with value every step of the way.

Executive Chauffeur

  1. Business Executive Shuttle
  2. Luxury Car Service
  3. Luxury Airport Pickup
  4. Executive Transportation
  5. Executive Limo
  6. VIP Travel Service
  7. Luxury Ground Transportation
  8. Luxury Prom Limo
  9. Private Luxury Car
  10. Private Minivan Service
  11. Luxury Car Hire
  12. Luxury Transfer Service
  13. Luxury Ride Share
  14. Luxury Night Out Transport
  15. VIP Transportation
  16. Luxury Wedding Transport


Whether you prefer a warm cup of coffee to start your day or a light snack to keep you going, we've got you covered. You're not just another passenger; you're the master of your adventure.

Business Transportation

  • VIP Limo
  • Business Executive Shuttle
  • Luxury Car Service
  • Luxury Airport Pickup
  • Executive Transportation
  • Executive Limo
  • VIP Travel Service
  • Luxury Ground Transportation
  • Luxury Prom Limo
  • Private Luxury Car
  • Private Minivan Service
  • Luxury Car Hire
  • Luxury Transfer Service
  • Corporate Shuttle
  • Private Executive Car
  • Luxury Sedan Rental
  • VIP Car Service
  • Private SUV Transportation
  • Luxury Hotel Shuttle
What's a luxurious journey without top-tier onboard amenities to enhance your experience?

With Banff Transport's luxury private transportation service, you can explore Vancouver in unmatched style and comfort. You can plan stops at iconic viewpoints, arrange pick-ups and drop-offs according to your schedule, and enjoy the comfort of high-end amenities.

Luxury Hotel Shuttle

  1. High-End Chauffeur
  2. Private Limo
  3. Airport Transfer
  4. Luxury Event Transportation
  5. Luxury Travel Transportation
  6. Luxury Travel Concierge
  7. Corporate Car Service
  8. Business Transportation
  9. VIP Airport Pickup
  10. Luxury Travel Service
  11. Luxury Sedan Service
  12. Luxury Airport Shuttle
  13. Limousine Rental
  14. High-End Shuttle
  15. Private Airport Transfer
You'll find that our luxury private transportation service spans major cruise terminals and ferry ports across the globe, ensuring you're covered wherever your travels may take you.

Whether it's making last-minute reservations or providing local recommendations, we're here to ensure your journey is as seamless and enjoyable as possible. Imagine stepping into a vehicle that's been chosen specifically for your comfort and style preferences. 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.

Luxury Hotel Shuttle

  1. Luxury Limousine Rental
  2. Luxury Ride Share
  3. Luxury Night Out Transport
  4. VIP Transportation
  5. Luxury Wedding Transport
  6. High-End Chauffeur
  7. Private Limo
  8. Airport Transfer
  9. Luxury Event Transportation
  10. Luxury Travel Transportation
  11. Luxury Travel Concierge
  12. Corporate Car Service
  13. Business Transportation
  14. VIP Airport Pickup
  15. Luxury Travel Service


Citations and other links

Sea to Sky Chauffeur Service

You'll also appreciate our complimentary Wi-Fi, allowing you to catch up on work or share your travel excitement online without delay. Business Transportation 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. Private SUV Transportation Our SUVs and stretch limousines also offer additional space and amenities, making them perfect for groups or special occasions. 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.

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.

Private Executive Car

  • Luxury Chauffeur Service
  • Executive Car Service
  • Luxury Ride
  • Premium Limo Service
  • Luxury Van Service
  • Private Car Service
  • Luxury Party Bus
  • Luxury Private Coach
  • Executive Van Service
  • Luxury Transportation Company
  • Private Chauffeur
  • Luxury City Tour
  • High-End Car Service
  • Luxury Event Car Service
  • Luxury Corporate Travel
  • Private Chauffeured Van
  • Airport Limo
  • Private Event Transportation
  • VIP Limo
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.

Sea to Sky Chauffeur Service
Banff Private Car Service from Vancouver

Banff Private Car Service from Vancouver

Looking ahead, Banff Transport is set to broaden its horizons by introducing new routes and expanding its fleet to serve more destinations. Tailored specifically for families and groups, you're invited to discover a world where every travel necessity and luxury is anticipated and catered to. These range from luxury sedans for smaller groups to spacious SUVs and vans for larger parties, all equipped with top-tier amenities to elevate your travel experience. Safety and comfort are top priorities, so your chauffeur will ensure you're settled in before smoothly starting the journey.

Private SUV Transportation

  • Luxury Party Bus
  • Luxury Private Coach
  • Executive Van Service
  • Luxury Transportation Company
  • Private Chauffeur
  • Luxury City Tour
  • High-End Car Service
  • Luxury Event Car Service
  • Luxury Corporate Travel
  • Private Chauffeured Van
  • Airport Limo
  • Private Event Transportation
  • VIP Limo
  • Business Executive Shuttle
  • Luxury Car Service
  • Luxury Airport Pickup
  • Executive Transportation


You're in safe hands, as their commitment to your health extends beyond the vehicle's cleanliness.

Business Transportation

  1. Luxury Car Hire
  2. Luxury Transfer Service
  3. High-End Chauffeur
  4. Private Limo
  5. Airport Transfer
  6. Luxury Event Transportation
  7. Luxury Travel Transportation
  8. Luxury Travel Concierge
  9. Corporate Car Service
  10. Business Transportation
  11. VIP Airport Pickup
  12. Luxury Travel Service
  13. Luxury Sedan Service
  14. Luxury Airport Shuttle
  15. Limousine Rental
  16. High-End Shuttle
  17. Private Airport Transfer
  18. Luxury Limousine
  19. Luxury Group Transportation
You'll find only the latest models, each equipped with plush interiors and cutting-edge technology to ensure your journey is both comfortable and connected. As you set off, the bustling cityscapes of Vancouver gradually give way to the serene beauty of the British Columbia countryside.

It's also a wonderful way to share your journey with friends and family.

Luxury SUV Rental

  1. Luxury Travel Transportation
  2. Luxury Travel Concierge
  3. Corporate Car Service
  4. Business Transportation
  5. VIP Airport Pickup
  6. Luxury Travel Service
  7. Luxury Sedan Service
  8. Luxury Airport Shuttle
  9. Limousine Rental
  10. High-End Shuttle
  11. Private Airport Transfer
  12. Luxury Limousine
  13. Luxury Group Transportation
  14. Luxury Hotel Transfer
  15. Corporate Executive Transport
You won't have to worry about the hassle of navigating traffic or finding parking. They're not just drivers; they're your personal guides, ready to assist with luggage and provide insights into the best spots in Vancouver.

It's versatile enough to handle luggage while providing everyone with a comfortable seat. 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. If you're new to Vancouver or returning after a while, your driver can also act as a personal guide, recommending places to visit or dine based on your interests. VIP Transportation

Business Travel Car Service Vancouver

While ensuring your booking process is seamless, Banff Transport also prioritizes your health by implementing rigorous safety and sanitation protocols for every ride. Their commitment to safety doesn't stop at their vehicles; their drivers are carefully selected and extensively trained in defensive driving techniques. As you settle into the plush, ergonomically designed seating, the stresses of public transport and crowded highways melt away. After exploring Banff's stunning vistas and charming town, consider eco-friendly travel options to further enrich your adventure. First, you'll visit the service's website or use their dedicated app.

Luxury Ride

  • Luxury Sedan Service
  • Luxury Airport Shuttle
  • Limousine Rental
  • High-End Shuttle
  • Private Airport Transfer
  • Luxury Limousine
  • Luxury Group Transportation
  • Luxury Hotel Transfer
  • Corporate Executive Transport
  • Luxury Town Car
  • Luxury Car Rental
  • Luxury Chauffeur Service
  • Executive Car Service
  • Luxury Ride
  • Premium Limo Service
  • Luxury Van Service
  • Private Car Service


It's not just travel; it's an extension of your Banff adventure, beginning the moment you leave Vancouver Airport. This isn't a rushed journey; it's an immersive experience that invites you to connect with the natural splendor of British Columbia on your terms. Each vehicle is equipped with child safety seats upon request, ensuring the little ones are secure and comfortable throughout the journey. Luxury Fleet For those longer trips, a selection of refreshments is available, from gourmet snacks to hydrating beverages, catering to all ages and preferences.

In winter, the snowy landscape offers breathtaking views, but it also means you'll need to pack warm clothing and be prepared for potential delays due to weather. Our service ensures you'll arrive at your destination relaxed and ready to enjoy your holiday festivities. Understanding the unpredictable nature of travel, the luxury private transportation service offers flexible scheduling options to fit your unique itinerary. First off, their luxury SUVs are perfect for smaller groups or families, providing both elegance and functionality.

One traveler shares, 'It was like having a personal concierge for the road. Our chauffeurs aren't just selected for their driving skills; they're chosen for their professionalism, discretion, and commitment to customer service. It's not just about getting from point A to B; it's about savoring every moment of the journey. Our luxury fleet at Banff Transport's Luxury Private Transportation Service Vancouver is designed to elevate your travel experience to the highest level of comfort and style.

Business Travel Car Service Vancouver
Private Ride Service Vancouver
Private Ride Service Vancouver

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

Executive Chauffeur

  • Luxury Hotel Transfer
  • Corporate Executive Transport
  • Luxury Town Car
  • Luxury Car Rental
  • Luxury Chauffeur Service
  • Executive Car Service
  • Luxury Ride
  • Premium Limo Service
  • Luxury Van Service
  • Private Car Service
  • Luxury Party Bus
  • Luxury Private Coach
  • Executive Van Service
  • Luxury Transportation Company
  • Private Chauffeur
  • Luxury City Tour
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.

Executive Airport Transfer Vancouver

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. Every vehicle is equipped with climate control, allowing you to adjust the temperature to your liking, regardless of the weather outside. Moreover, Banff Transport encourages digital bookings and communications, cutting down on paper waste and contributing to their green initiative.

Luxury Night Out Transport

  • Luxury Limousine
  • Luxury Group Transportation
  • Luxury Hotel Transfer
  • Corporate Executive Transport
  • Luxury Town Car
  • Luxury Car Rental
  • Luxury Chauffeur Service
  • Executive Car Service
  • Luxury Ride
  • Premium Limo Service
  • Luxury Van Service
  • Private Car Service
  • Luxury Party Bus
  • Luxury Private Coach
  • Executive Van Service
  • Luxury Transportation Company
  • Private Chauffeur
  • Luxury City Tour
  • High-End Car Service
You'll quickly notice that every detail matters to your chauffeur.
They're trained not just in safe driving but in customer service excellence, making every interaction pleasant and every request accommodated. From the moment you book until you reach your destination, safety and reliability aren't just promised-they're delivered. If you're keen on exploring at your own pace, renting electric bikes is a fantastic option.
The service's customer support is usually very responsive and accommodating, ensuring your journey is tailored precisely to your expectations. Utterly seamless. From the personalized music selection to the complimentary beverages, every aspect of your ride is designed to cater to your comfort and enjoyment.
You'll discover a seamless blend of sophistication and convenience, designed to elevate your travel experience from the moment you step off your cruise ship or ferry. Luxury City Tour You'll find their booking system user-friendly, accessible either through their official website or by directly calling their customer service line. They're also transparent about pricing, so you'll know exactly what you're paying for without any surprises.

Explore First-Class Ground Transportation Vancouver here
Executive Airport Transfer Vancouver

 

A chauffeur in Japan standing next to a Nissan Fuga

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

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

History

[edit]
A chauffeur in Glasgow during World War I

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

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

Scope

[edit]

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

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

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

Training

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

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

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

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

Notable chauffeurs

[edit]

In fiction

[edit]

References

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

 

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

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

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

Etymology

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

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

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

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

History

[edit]

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

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

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

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

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

Characteristics

[edit]

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

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

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

Stretch limousines

[edit]
Lincoln Town Car stretch limousine

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

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

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

Novelty limousines

[edit]

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

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

[edit]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ Garner, Bryan (July 28, 2009). Garner's Modern American Usage. Oxford University Press. ISBN 9780199874620. Archived from the original on July 7, 2023. Retrieved August 2, 2020.
  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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  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

 

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