Hourly Private Car Service Vancouver

Hourly Private Car Service Vancouver

Luxury Airport Pickup

It's all about adding that touch of luxury and convenience to your journey. Learn more about Luxury Private Transportation Service Vancouver BC here. For those longer stretches, enjoy the convenience of onboard refreshments. Whether it's catching a flight, making a meeting, or just enjoying a leisurely day out, their personalized travel plans are designed with your timeline in mind, guaranteeing a stress-free travel experience tailored just for you. Learn more about Hourly Private Car Service Vancouver here The commitment to your comfort and privacy is evident in every detail, from the moment you're greeted by your professional chauffeur to your arrival at your destination. The service is designed to accommodate your preferences and interests, making it ideal for those who seek flexibility and exclusivity in their travels.
Stick around to explore the luxury difference, the expansive vehicle options, and the personalized travel experiences that set Banff Transport apart. While it's important to document your trip, it's equally crucial to enjoy the moment. Banff Transport doesn't just offer a ride; they provide an experience. Whether you're after the sleek elegance of a sedan or the spacious luxury of an SUV, the choice is yours.

Executive Car Service

  • Executive Chauffeur
  • Luxury Sedan Rental
  • Luxury Wedding Transport
  • Private SUV Transportation
  • Corporate Shuttle
  • VIP Airport Pickup
  • Business Executive Shuttle
  • Private Chauffeur
  • Private Luxury Car
  • Luxury Ground Transportation
  • Luxury Ride Share
  • Luxury Limousine Rental
  • Corporate Executive Transport
  • Luxury Private Coach
  • Luxury Transportation Company
  • Private Chauffeured Van
  • Private Airport Transfer

Beyond the exclusive stops that enrich your journey, the luxury private transportation service also offers personalized entertainment and amenities tailored just for you. Moreover, Banff Transport's drivers are trained in the latest health and safety protocols, adhering to the guidelines recommended by health authorities. We understand the importance of staying refreshed, which is why we offer complimentary refreshments and snacks. It's their way of saying thank you for choosing them as your travel partner.
You're about to witness a transformation that promises to elevate your travel experiences to new heights. Whether it's a change in flight schedules or a last-minute update to your destination, you can adjust your reservation online without any hassle or additional fees.

Luxury Sedan Rental

  1. Luxury Airport Shuttle
  2. Luxury Sedan Rental
  3. Business Executive Shuttle
  4. Luxury City Tour
  5. Executive Van Service
  6. VIP Transportation
  7. Executive Car Service
  8. Luxury Hotel Shuttle
  9. Luxury Airport Shuttle
  10. Luxury Sedan Rental
  11. Business Executive Shuttle
  12. Luxury City Tour
  13. Executive Van Service
  14. VIP Transportation
  15. Executive Car Service
  16. Luxury Hotel Shuttle
  17. Luxury Airport Shuttle
  18. Luxury Sedan Rental
Your driver can make it happen. Once you've booked your ride, selecting a pickup point is straightforward.

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.

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. For those longer trips, a selection of refreshments is available, from gourmet snacks to hydrating beverages, catering to all ages and preferences. Luxury Hotel Shuttle

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.

Citations and other links

Executive Transportation Vancouver

Elevating your travel experience, the service provides professional chauffeurs who'll ensure your journey is smooth, safe, and sophisticated. You're treated to impeccably maintained interiors, climate control for your comfort, and entertainment options to make your journey more enjoyable. Explore real stories from travelers who've made the journey from Vancouver to Banff with our luxury private transportation service. Whether you're in town for business or pleasure, our fleet is at your disposal, ready to transform any journey into an unforgettable part of your visit.

Banff offers a variety of green travel choices that align with preserving its natural beauty. Once you've booked, you'll receive a confirmation detailing your trip, including date, time, and any specific requests you've made. Our professional chauffeurs handle all the details, allowing you to focus on what matters most - making memories.

These chauffeurs aren't just drivers; they're your personal guides, confidantes, and facilitators, ensuring your trip exceeds expectations. Want to surprise your partner with a romantic ride complete with champagne and flowers? This means that every journey you take with them doesn't just get you to your destination in style but also with a clear conscience.

For those who need to stay connected on the go, Wi-Fi and charging ports are at your fingertips. Our guests were impressed by the comfort and style of the transportation. They're often more than happy to share their local knowledge, adding a unique touch to your journey.

Luxury Airport Pickup

  • Business Executive Shuttle
  • Luxury City Tour
  • Executive Van Service
  • Executive Car Service
  • Luxury Hotel Shuttle
  • Luxury Airport Shuttle
  • Luxury Sedan Rental
  • Business Executive Shuttle
  • Luxury City Tour
  • Executive Van Service
  • Executive Car Service
  • Luxury Hotel Shuttle
  • Luxury Airport Shuttle
  • Luxury Sedan Rental
  • Business Executive Shuttle
  • Luxury City Tour
  • Executive Van Service
  • Executive Car Service


Executive Transportation Vancouver
Vancouver Luxury Fleet Service

Vancouver Luxury Fleet Service

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.

Luxury Airport Pickup

  1. High-End Shuttle
  2. VIP Transportation
  3. Private Executive Car
  4. Luxury Event Transportation
  5. Airport Transfer
  6. Luxury Party Bus
  7. Luxury Travel Service
  8. Business Transportation
  9. Luxury Ride
  10. Private Car Service
  11. Luxury Sedan Service
  12. Corporate Car Service
  13. Private Minivan Service
  14. Luxury Airport Shuttle
  15. Luxury Transfer Service
  16. VIP Travel Service
  17. Luxury Night Out Transport
Moreover, Banff Transport encourages digital bookings and communications, cutting down on paper waste and contributing to their green initiative. 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. 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.

Luxury Airport Pickup

Luxury Corporate Event Transportation 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.

VIP Transportation

  • Luxury Hotel Shuttle
  • Luxury Airport Shuttle
  • Luxury Sedan Rental
  • Business Executive Shuttle
  • Luxury City Tour
  • Executive Van Service
  • Luxury Hotel Shuttle
  • Luxury Airport Shuttle
  • Luxury Sedan Rental
  • Business Executive Shuttle
  • Luxury City Tour
  • Executive Van Service
  • Luxury Hotel Shuttle
  • Luxury Airport Shuttle
  • Luxury Sedan Rental
  • Business Executive Shuttle
  • Luxury City Tour
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. Private Event Transportation Safety and comfort are top priorities, so your chauffeur will ensure you're settled in before smoothly starting the journey.

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

Luxury Corporate Event Transportation Vancouver
Private Airport Pickup Vancouver
Private Airport Pickup Vancouver

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. 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.

High-End Chauffeur

  1. Business Executive Shuttle
  2. Luxury City Tour
  3. Executive Van Service
  4. Business Executive Shuttle
  5. Luxury City Tour
  6. Executive Van Service
  7. Business Executive Shuttle
  8. Luxury City Tour
  9. Executive Van Service
  10. Business Executive Shuttle
  11. Luxury City Tour
  12. Executive Van Service
  13. Business Executive Shuttle
  14. Luxury City Tour
  15. Executive Van Service
  16. Business Executive Shuttle
  17. Luxury City Tour
  18. Executive Van Service
  19. Business Executive Shuttle


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.

Luxury Airport Pickup

  • Luxury Airport Shuttle
  • Luxury Sedan Rental
  • Business Executive Shuttle
  • Luxury City Tour
  • Executive Van Service
  • Corporate Executive Transport
  • VIP Transportation
  • Executive Car Service
  • Luxury Hotel Shuttle
  • Luxury Airport Shuttle
  • Luxury Sedan Rental
  • Business Executive Shuttle
  • Luxury City Tour
  • Executive Van Service
  • Corporate Executive Transport
  • VIP Transportation
  • Executive Car Service
  • Luxury Hotel Shuttle
You're not just another passenger; you're the master of your adventure. 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. Executive Van Service 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. 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.

Premium Travel Service Vancouver BC

Banff Transport prioritizes your safety by constantly upgrading their vehicles with the latest safety enhancements. Explore Hourly Private Car Service Vancouver here Lastly, don't forget to be present. If you're unsure about your itinerary or have specific requests, the service's customer support is ready to help, making personalized recommendations to enhance your travel experience. Our knowledgeable drivers double as your personal concierges, offering insights into local attractions and hidden gems that you might want to explore along the way. High-End Chauffeur You'll need to provide your flight details, preferred travel dates, and accommodation in Banff to ensure a seamless pickup and drop-off experience.
They're not just drivers; they're your personal concierges on wheels, equipped with an intimate knowledge of Vancouver to ensure your journey is as seamless as it's comfortable. Opt for electric buses available for public transport within the park.

Private Event Transportation

  1. Executive Van Service
  2. Executive Van Service
  3. Executive Van Service
  4. Executive Van Service
  5. Executive Van Service
  6. Executive Van Service
  7. Executive Van Service
  8. Executive Van Service
  9. Executive Van Service
  10. Executive Van Service
  11. Executive Van Service
  12. Executive Van Service
  13. Executive Van Service
  14. Executive Van Service
  15. Executive Van Service
  16. Executive Van Service
  17. Executive Van Service
  18. Executive Van Service
  19. Executive Van Service
  20. Executive Van Service
With customer-friendly policies, you can alter your plans without hefty penalties, giving you peace of mind.

High-End Chauffeur

  • Luxury City Tour
  • Executive Van Service
  • Luxury City Tour
  • Executive Van Service
  • Luxury City Tour
  • Executive Van Service
  • Luxury City Tour
  • Executive Van Service
  • Luxury City Tour
  • Executive Van Service
  • Luxury City Tour
  • Executive Van Service
  • Luxury City Tour
  • Executive Van Service
  • Luxury City Tour
  • Executive Van Service
  • Luxury City Tour
  • Executive Van Service
  • Luxury City Tour
Embracing these sustainable travel options not only enhances your experience in Banff but also contributes to the conservation efforts of this magnificent national park.
You don't have to worry about navigating through traffic or finding parking.

Luxury Sedan Rental

  • Executive Van Service
  • Luxury Sedan Rental
  • Business Executive Shuttle
  • Luxury City Tour
  • Executive Van Service
  • Luxury Sedan Rental
  • Business Executive Shuttle
  • Luxury City Tour
  • Executive Van Service
  • Luxury Sedan Rental
  • Business Executive Shuttle
  • Luxury City Tour
  • Executive Van Service
  • Luxury Sedan Rental
  • Business Executive Shuttle
  • Luxury City Tour
  • Executive Van Service
With an intimate knowledge of the area, they can offer recommendations, share stories, and even tailor your journey to include hidden gems along the way. That's why we offer customizable packages to fit your specific needs. Another group of friends highlighted the convenience and flexibility of the service, allowing them to explore Vancouver's sights at their own pace, without the stress of navigating public transport. Read more about Hourly Private Car Service Vancouver here
This flexibility extends to last-minute changes. Each chauffeur brings a wealth of knowledge about Vancouver's fastest routes, scenic spots, and hidden gems, turning a simple transfer into an immersive experience. You'll find the booking interface intuitive, offering clear options for selecting your vehicle type, pick-up and drop-off locations, and travel dates. As a member of Banff Transport's exclusive club, you'll unlock a suite of benefits designed to enhance your travel experience significantly.

Premium Travel Service Vancouver BC

 

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.
  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.
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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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