Premium Bus Transportation Vancouver

Premium Bus Transportation Vancouver

Downtown bus rental

You'll find their flexibility and dedication to service transforms your travel plans from mere transportation to a bespoke journey. They're committed to maintaining the highest safety standards, keeping you safe and secure, no matter the destination. Their buses come equipped with comfortable seating, ambient lighting, and state-of-the-art entertainment systems, ensuring your journey is as enjoyable as possible.

Motor coach rental

  1. Convention transport
  2. Custom bus rental
  3. Motor coach rental
  4. Private bus rental
  5. Transport charter
  6. Lower Mainland BC
  7. Tour transportation
  8. Vancouver area
  9. Metro Vancouver
  10. Bus transportation
  11. British Columbia
  12. Senior group travel
  13. School bus rental
  14. Bus packages
  15. Airport transfer
  16. Licensed bus operators
Star Coach elevates your special day with bespoke wedding packages designed to complement their premier event transportation, ensuring your journey to the altar is as memorable as the ceremony itself. Learn more about Premium Bus Transportation Vancouver here
You'll notice that each bus boasts state-of-the-art amenities, including plush seating, advanced entertainment systems, and climate control, ensuring your journey is as comfortable as it can be. Executive bus charter In an era where environmental consciousness is paramount, Vancouver's Star Coach Bus Rentals prioritizes eco-friendly transportation options for all its passengers. The interiors are nothing short of lavish, featuring plush seating, state-of-the-art entertainment systems, and onboard Wi-Fi to keep you connected on the move.
By choosing Star Coach, you're not just opting for a high-end travel experience; you're also making a conscious choice to support eco-friendly transportation. From the gleaming exteriors to the plush, well-appointed interiors, it's clear they've paid attention to every detail. They're certified professionals, trained not just in driving but in emergency response, defensive driving, and customer service.
When you choose us for your travel needs in Vancouver, you're not just getting a ride; you're embarking on a premier experience that's unmatched in the industry. Moreover, these luxury coaches offer a seamless blend of convenience and style. Learn more about Vancouver Charter Buses by Star Coach here. Instead, you can pick and choose the amenities and services that best fit your group's preferences and budget.

We pride ourselves on responsiveness and the ability to provide solutions that make your travel seamless and stress-free. No problem. Each vehicle is meticulously maintained and features state-of-the-art amenities to ensure your journey is as comfortable as it's memorable. Here, you'll find an intuitive booking platform that guides you through selecting your desired service. If the quote matches your budget, you can proceed to book your luxury bus directly on our website.
Star Coach seems to have a knack for making each client feel like their needs are a top priority. Custom bus rental Whether you're marveling at the panoramic views from the Vancouver Lookout or wandering through the vibrant markets of Granville Island, they're there to ensure you capture the essence of Vancouver. Building a strong reputation, Star Coach has become synonymous with reliability and luxury in Vancouver's bus rental market. Star Coach understands the importance of flexibility and strives to accommodate any request, big or small.
We've designed our buses with your relaxation in mind. Blending comfort with luxury, the buses in our fleet redefine what it means to travel in style. Fancy a bit of luxury with leather seats and a minibar for a special celebration? It's this proactive approach that sets Star Coach apart.

Motor coach rental

  • Bus driver service
  • Convention transport
  • Custom bus rental
  • Motor coach rental
  • Private bus rental
  • Transport charter
  • Lower Mainland BC
  • Tour transportation
  • Vancouver area
  • Metro Vancouver
  • Bus transportation
  • British Columbia
  • Senior group travel
  • School bus rental
  • Bus packages
  • Airport transfer
  • Licensed bus operators
  • Bus charter
Read more about Premium Bus Transportation Vancouver here
Their versatility means you don't have to worry about the specifics of your event; they're equipped to handle everything with elegance and ease. Casino shuttle It's a seamless blend of comfort, style, and conscientious living.

Motor coach rental

  1. Wedding bus rental
  2. Minibus rental
  3. Group tour bus
  4. Private group transport
  5. Vancouver BC
  6. Affordable bus rental
  7. Bus travel
  8. Bus fleet
  9. Travel coach
  10. Luxury transportation
  11. Charter transportation
  12. Party bus
  13. Comfortable bus rental
  14. Event shuttles
  15. Downtown Vancouver
  16. Bus for hire
You're not just picking a mode of transport; you're crafting an entire journey that's bespoke to your group's requirements. This premium bus rental service doesn't cut corners when it comes to ensuring you're protected and at ease throughout your journey.

Deluxe Bus Rental Vancouver

As of 2016, the Port of Vancouver is the fourth-largest port by tonnage in the Americas, the busiest and largest in Canada, and the most diversified port in North America. While forestry remains its largest industry, Vancouver is well known as an urban centre surrounded by nature, making tourism its second-largest industry. Major film production studios in Vancouver and nearby Burnaby have turned Greater Vancouver and nearby areas into one of the largest film production centres in North America, earning it the nickname "Hollywood North"

Citations and other links

Chauffeured Private Coach Vancouver

Star Coach has got you covered. We consider factors like the time of day, the nature of your event, and your preferences for scenic versus direct routes. Isn't it a happy coincidence that you're in need of corporate and event travel solutions in Vancouver just as Star Coach unveils its top-tier bus rental services? Every vehicle in Star Coach's fleet is equipped with the latest safety technologies, including advanced braking systems, stability control, and continuous mechanical inspections to guarantee reliability on the road.

Convention transport

  • Private bus rental
  • Transport charter
  • Lower Mainland BC
  • Tour transportation
  • Vancouver area
  • Metro Vancouver
  • Bus transportation
  • British Columbia
  • Senior group travel
  • School bus rental
  • Bus packages
  • Airport transfer
  • Licensed bus operators
  • Bus charter
  • Wedding bus rental


Through consistent delivery of high-quality service and a fleet that boasts the latest in comfort and technology, they've carved out a niche that's hard to compete with. You'll find each vehicle in their fleet is equipped with the latest safety technologies, including advanced GPS tracking, to keep you on the safest route and allow for real-time location updates. Star Coach doesn't stop at their vehicles.

Building on our commitment to a customized luxury experience, we equip each bus with advanced onboard amenities to enhance your journey. Plus, the professional drivers aren't only skilled at navigating the city's streets but also committed to your safety and well-being. Whether you're planning a corporate retreat, a big family reunion, or a school trip, they've got you covered.

Let's be part of your next occasion, and we'll ensure it's as memorable as the event itself. Their attention to detail is unmatched, from the choice of onboard entertainment to the professionalism of their drivers. From the moment you reach out for a booking, you're met with a team eager to tailor every detail to your preferences.

Chauffeured Private Coach Vancouver
Exclusive Tour Bus Vancouver

Exclusive Tour Bus Vancouver

It's clear that their dedication to customer satisfaction isn't just a part of their business model; it's what sets them apart in the Vancouver bus rental market. You'll notice the attention to detail, from the polished chrome accents to the tinted windows that offer both privacy and a touch of mystery. You're probably wondering what sets these buses apart from the standard fare. With us, you're not just booking a bus rental; you're securing peace of mind, knowing that every aspect of your ride reflects our commitment to excellence. You're not just renting a bus; you're crafting an unforgettable experience tailored just for you and your group. Motor coach rental

You won't miss a beat of work or entertainment, thanks to the free Wi-Fi that keeps you connected to the world outside. With your customized travel plan in place, booking your trip with Star Coach Bus Rentals is an effortless process. That's why they've structured their pricing to be transparent and straightforward, allowing you to budget efficiently without any surprises. They've gone above and beyond to ensure their vehicles aren't just about getting from point A to B; they're about making a statement.

Group transportation

  1. Bus travel
  2. Bus fleet
  3. Travel coach
  4. Luxury transportation
  5. Charter transportation
  6. Party bus
  7. Comfortable bus rental
  8. Event shuttles
  9. Downtown Vancouver
  10. Bus for hire
  11. Long-distance bus
  12. Crew shuttle
  13. Bus services
  14. Sport team transportation
  15. Team travel
  16. Hourly bus rental
  17. Bus leasing
  18. Event transportation
  19. Vancouver
  20. Luxury bus rental


Each seat is equipped with personal charging stations, ensuring your devices stay powered up while you're on the move. It's not just about the fuel, though. Passenger bus rental Thinking about a guided tour with knowledgeable commentary throughout Vancouver?

Casino shuttle

  1. Long-distance bus
  2. Crew shuttle
  3. Bus services
  4. Sport team transportation
  5. Team travel
  6. Hourly bus rental
  7. Bus leasing
  8. Event transportation
  9. Vancouver
  10. Luxury bus rental
  11. Bus driver service
  12. Passenger bus rental
  13. Greater Vancouver
  14. Festival shuttle
  15. Executive bus charter
  16. Bus line
  17. Coach hire
  18. Transport services
Each seat is equipped with personal charging stations, ensuring your devices stay powered up as you travel.

Star Coach has made it incredibly easy to book your bus rental well in advance, giving you peace of mind and more time to focus on other aspects of your trip. After ironing out the details, you'll receive a clear and concise quote. What sets Star Coach apart is their attention to detail. These vehicles are equipped with the latest technology to ensure fuel efficiency and lower carbon footprints.

Chauffeured Coach Bus Vancouver

Each of these features works together to provide a safety net, giving you peace of mind as you enjoy the luxurious travel experience onboard Star Coach's Prevost H3-45 coaches. You'll also notice a theme of gratitude for the personalized attention to detail. In essence, the glowing testimonials and positive reviews are a testament to Star Coach's dedication to providing a first-class transport service. They've structured their pricing to ensure you get the most bang for your buck, making luxury bus rental in Vancouver both accessible and economical. Or maybe you're keen to soak in the natural beauty of Stanley Park, followed by a sunset beach visit?

They've designed their pricing structure with you in mind, ensuring that you get top-notch service without breaking the bank. They ensure your safety and comfort throughout the journey, adding a personal touch that makes the trip memorable.

Mini coach rental

  • Minibus rental
  • Group tour bus
  • Private group transport
  • Vancouver BC
  • Affordable bus rental
  • Bus travel
  • Bus fleet
  • Travel coach
  • Luxury transportation
  • Charter transportation
  • Party bus
  • Comfortable bus rental
  • Event shuttles
  • Downtown Vancouver
  • Bus for hire
  • Long-distance bus
  • Crew shuttle
  • Bus services
  • Sport team transportation
  • Team travel
Whether you're planning a corporate event, a wedding, or a scenic tour around Vancouver, they've got a bus that'll not only meet your needs but also reflect the sophistication and elegance of your event. Star Coach ensures that each landmark visited is more than just a stop; it's an experience, rich with stories and sights that captivate and inspire.

This peace of mind is irreplaceable, knowing you're in capable hands. With our executive fleet, you have the flexibility to customize your travel itinerary. For corporate events, impress your clients and employees with top-tier transportation that reflects the professionalism and prestige of your company. Once you step aboard a Star Coach bus, you'll quickly discover the exceptional onboard services that set them apart.

This flexibility makes it easy to tailor your travel plans to your group's exact requirements.

Bus hire

  • Crew shuttle
  • Bus services
  • Sport team transportation
  • Team travel
  • Hourly bus rental
  • Bus leasing
  • Event transportation
  • Vancouver
  • Luxury bus rental
  • Bus driver service
  • Transport services
  • City tour bus
  • Bus hire
  • Convention transport
  • Custom bus rental
  • Motor coach rental
  • Private bus rental
  • Transport charter
  • Lower Mainland BC
You'll find an intuitive booking platform where you can specify your travel dates, destination, and the number of passengers.

Tour bus rental

  • Bus charter
  • Wedding bus rental
  • Minibus rental
  • Group tour bus
  • Private group transport
  • Vancouver BC
  • Affordable bus rental
  • Bus travel
  • Bus fleet
  • Travel coach
  • Luxury transportation
  • Charter transportation
  • Party bus
  • Comfortable bus rental
  • Event shuttles
  • Downtown Vancouver
  • Bus for hire
  • Long-distance bus
  • Crew shuttle
  • Bus services
It's the meticulous attention to detail and the dedication to providing a seamless, comfortable, and luxurious experience that sets us apart. Customers often cite the cleanliness of the vehicles, the friendliness of the drivers, and the ease of the booking process as reasons they come back.

Chauffeured Coach Bus Vancouver
Eco-Friendly Charter Buses Vancouver
Eco-Friendly Charter Buses Vancouver

Star Coach prides itself on transparency, so you won't have to worry about hidden fees. Whether it's a corporate event, a school outing, or a luxurious wedding, they've got you covered with unparalleled professionalism and attention to detail. Bus line You'll have a tailored experience that's as unique as your group, with the flexibility to adjust on the go, ensuring your Vancouver visit is nothing short of extraordinary. You're likely seeking a balance between affordability and high-quality service for your group's travel needs. When you choose to travel with these luxury buses, you're opting for a mode of transportation that maximizes passenger capacity without sacrificing the environment.

From premium onboard features to tailor-made tour packages showcasing the city's iconic landmarks, they're promising more than just a ride-they're offering an integral part of the Vancouver tourism experience. Stick around, and you'll discover how their legacy, combined with an unwavering commitment to excellence, has not only captured but retained the attention and loyalty of a discerning customer base. But it's not just about the amenities. Once you've filled in all the details, submit your request.

It's not just a ride; it's an experience crafted just for you.

City tour bus

  1. Hourly bus rental
  2. Bus leasing
  3. Event transportation
  4. Vancouver
  5. Luxury bus rental
  6. Bus driver service
  7. Community bus service
  8. Casino shuttle
  9. Group transportation
  10. Passenger bus rental
  11. Greater Vancouver
  12. Festival shuttle
  13. Executive bus charter
  14. Bus line
  15. Coach hire
  16. Transport services
  17. City tour bus
  18. Bus hire
Once you've decided on the perfect travel package, you won't have to jump through hoops to secure your reservation. You're not just arriving; you're making an entrance. While enjoying the luxury and freedom of bus travel in Vancouver, you also have the option to tailor your journey with customizable travel packages.

Moreover, we understand that travel preferences vary. Consider it done. You've likely heard the buzz about reducing carbon footprints, and this company is leading the charge in the transportation sector. Festival shuttle You don't have to worry about the stress of finding the quickest path; we've got it covered.

Transport services
First-Class Shuttle Service Vancouver

Moreover, their booking process is straightforward and transparent. That's why we offer customizable itineraries and schedules. Stick with us to uncover the layers of excellence that have clients singing their praises and why exploring Vancouver with Star Coach might just be the upgrade your travel plans need. We actively seek out your opinions and suggestions to continuously improve our services. Building on their commitment to customer satisfaction, Star Coach offers a diverse fleet selection to meet any group's size or preference.
The climate control ensures the environment inside is always just how you like it, making your travel experience pleasant throughout the year. Star Coach goes beyond just providing a bus; they tailor your travel experience to meet your specific needs and preferences. Vancouver's Star Coach Bus Rentals haven't just focused on physical comfort; they've considered every aspect of your journey. Whether it's a corporate retreat, a major conference, or a special celebration, discover why choosing Star Coach could be the game-changer for your next event.
Having explored how to book your luxury bus rental, let's hear what previous clients have to say about their experiences with Star Coach. With a keen understanding that no two businesses are the same, Star Coach works closely with you to customize every aspect of your travel plan. Let's peel back the layers to uncover the essence of luxury travel with Star Coach's executive fleet. Personal charging stations ensure your devices are always powered up, so you never miss out.
It extends to scheduling, route planning, and even on-board services. Star Coach prides itself on transparent pricing, so you won't be caught off guard by hidden fees.

Custom bus rental

  1. Downtown bus rental
  2. Charter shuttle service
  3. Tour bus rental
  4. Mini coach rental
  5. Community bus service
  6. Casino shuttle
  7. Group transportation
  8. Passenger bus rental
  9. Greater Vancouver
  10. Festival shuttle
  11. Executive bus charter
  12. Bus line
  13. Coach hire
  14. Transport services
  15. City tour bus
  16. Bus hire
  17. Convention transport
  18. Custom bus rental
  19. Motor coach rental
Their user-friendly website allows you to select your preferred travel dates, bus size, and any additional amenities with just a few clicks. Whether you're planning a grand wedding entrance, a corporate event, or a casual group outing, our executive fleet matches your needs with elegance and efficiency.

Explore Premium Bus Transportation Vancouver here
First-Class Shuttle Service Vancouver
1908 Studebaker limousine with an open driver's compartment
1953 Rolls-Royce Phantom IV (coachwork by Hooper)

A limousine (/ˈlɪməziːn/ or /lɪməˈziːn/), or limo (/ˈlɪmoʊ/) 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, Germany, Canada, and Australia, a limousine service may be any pre-booked hire car with a driver, usually, but only sometimes a luxury car. In particular, airport shuttle services are often called "limousine services", though they often use minivans or light commercial vehicles.[2]

Etymology

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

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

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

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

History

[edit]

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

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

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

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

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

Characteristics

[edit]

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

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

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

Stretch limousines

[edit]
Lincoln Town Car stretch limousine

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

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

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

Novelty limousines

[edit]

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

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

[edit]

See also

[edit]

References

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

 

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

A limousine (/ˈlɪməziːn/ or /lɪməˈziːn/), or limo (/ˈlɪmoʊ/) 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, Germany, Canada, and Australia, a limousine service may be any pre-booked hire car with a driver, usually, but only sometimes a luxury car. In particular, airport shuttle services are often called "limousine services", though they often use minivans or light commercial vehicles.[2]

Etymology

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

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

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

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

History

[edit]

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

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

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

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

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

Characteristics

[edit]

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

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

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

Stretch limousines

[edit]
Lincoln Town Car stretch limousine

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

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

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

Novelty limousines

[edit]

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

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

[edit]

See also

[edit]

References

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

 

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