Premium Limo Service Vancouver

Premium Limo Service Vancouver

Luxury Hotel Transfer

It's clear-this luxury private transportation service transforms your journey into a seamless, stress-free experience. Learn more about Premium Limo Service Vancouver here Each vehicle in Banff Transport's fleet is meticulously maintained, ensuring reliability and safety for your travels. Imagine sliding into a sleek, state-of-the-art sedan for swift city navigation or enjoying the spacious elegance of an SUV, perfect for larger groups or extra luggage. After exploring what makes Banff Transport a notable choice, it's crucial to understand what luxury travel truly entails. They're not just drivers; they're your personal guides, ready to assist with luggage and provide insights into the best spots in Vancouver.
You'll find yourself surrounded by elegance and sophistication from the moment you step into one of our vehicles. Share your experiences in real-time or after your trip. From exceptional safety standards to exclusive in-ride amenities, this service transforms a simple transit into an extraordinary experience. From ensuring your safety and privacy to providing bespoke solutions for your event transportation needs, Banff Transport stands out as a harbinger of luxury travel's future.
While it's tempting to pack as much as possible into each day, remember that the beauty of a private transport service is the flexibility it offers. These amenities, combined with the attentive service of your driver, guarantee a seamless and splendid journey from start to finish. Instead, you can book your scenic Sea to Sky trip with just a few clicks online or with a short phone call. Picture a serene moment at the base of a towering mountain or a quiet walk through a lush forest, moments crafted just for you.
With a keen eye for detail, these chauffeurs ensure every aspect of your ride is tailored to your preferences, from the temperature inside the vehicle to the route taken. Want to spend a few extra hours soaking in the natural beauty of the Canadian Rockies?

Executive Transportation

  1. Private Event Transportation
  2. Private Limo
  3. VIP Travel Service
  4. Private VIP Car Service
  5. Private Chauffeur
  6. Business Transportation
  7. Luxury Limousine
  8. Luxury Ground Transportation
  9. Business Executive Shuttle
  10. Private Chauffeured Van
  11. Executive Car Service
  12. High-End Shuttle
  13. Luxury SUV Rental
  14. Luxury Town Car
  15. Corporate Car Service
  16. VIP Limo
  17. Luxury Travel Concierge
  18. Corporate Shuttle
This ensures that your driver isn't only experienced but also prepared to handle any situation that might arise during your trip. You're looking for a stress-free travel experience, and that's exactly what we deliver. Learn more about Vancouver to Banff Luxury Private Car Service here.

From the moment you step inside one of our vehicles, you'll be enveloped in a world of premium comfort and convenience. It's designed for easy navigation, allowing you to quickly fill out the reservation form with your travel details.

Executive Transportation

  1. Private Event Transportation
  2. Private Limo
  3. VIP Travel Service
  4. Private VIP Car Service
  5. Private Chauffeur
  6. Business Transportation
  7. Luxury Limousine
  8. Luxury Ground Transportation
  9. Business Executive Shuttle
  10. Private Chauffeured Van
  11. Executive Car Service
  12. High-End Shuttle
  13. Luxury SUV Rental
  14. Luxury Town Car
  15. Luxury Event Transportation
  16. Corporate Executive Transport
  17. High-End Chauffeur
Moreover, they're constantly updating their practices to stay on the forefront of environmental stewardship. This feature allows you to enjoy the peacefulness or listen to your choice of music and entertainment without competing with the roar of traffic. Imagine gliding through breathtaking landscapes, ensconced in your personal haven, where every detail is curated to honor your need for solitude.

Stay with us as we unpack the layers of this exclusive service that promises to redefine luxury travel for families and groups. If you're keen on exploring at your own pace, renting electric bikes is a fantastic option. Following the seamless booking process, your next concern is likely the safety and reliability of your journey from Vancouver to the Sea to Sky region. Corporate Executive Transport Choose Banff Transport's Luxury Private Transportation Service Vancouver for a travel experience tailored precisely to your dreams.

Then, there's the convenience of shuttle services. VIP Limo Here, you'll select your travel dates, pick-up and drop-off locations, and specify the number of passengers to ensure the vehicle meets your space and comfort needs. If you're all about online convenience, their website is your go-to. After you've made your selections, a clear and concise confirmation is sent directly to your inbox, outlining all the details of your upcoming journey, including the driver's information and any special instructions you've provided.

You'll find that each vehicle in their fleet isn't just a means to get you from point A to B but a luxurious experience designed to cater to your every need. With our private transportation service, it won't be. Unlike standard options, this service isn't just about getting you from point A to B; it's about ensuring your journey is as memorable as the destination itself. Emily R. couldn't stop praising the punctuality and comfort, sharing, 'They were right on time, and the ride was so smooth and comfortable.

Citations and other links

Premium Ground Transportation Vancouver

It's not just about sitting back; it's about immersing yourself in an environment where every detail caters to your comfort and convenience.

Luxury Travel Concierge

  • Luxury Corporate Travel
  • Private Event Transportation
  • Private Limo
  • VIP Travel Service
  • Private VIP Car Service
  • Private Chauffeur
  • Business Transportation
  • Luxury Limousine
  • Luxury Ground Transportation
  • Business Executive Shuttle
  • Private Chauffeured Van
  • Executive Car Service
  • High-End Shuttle
  • Luxury SUV Rental
  • Luxury Town Car
  • Corporate Shuttle
That's why they offer customizable travel itineraries. These testimonials showcase the transformative impact of choosing luxury private transportation for your travel needs. Our team works closely with you to understand your preferences, from the destinations you dream of visiting to the activities that excite you the most.

Whether you're planning a grand wedding or a corporate event, Banff Transport offers tailored transportation solutions to meet your specific needs. It's their way of saying thank you for choosing them as your travel partner. Our fleet is versatile, catering to different tastes and requirements, whether you prefer the understated elegance of a luxury sedan or the plush comfort of a stretch limousine.

Stay with us as we unveil the secrets behind their success and what sets them apart in the bustling city of Vancouver. With our luxury private transportation service, you're not just getting a ride; you're creating a moment to remember. While it's important to document your trip, it's equally crucial to enjoy the moment.

They're carefully selecting destinations that not only appeal to a wide range of interests but also highlight the beauty and diversity of the landscapes they traverse. With Banff Transport, the focus is on removing the stress from your travel arrangements. 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.

Premium Ground Transportation Vancouver
Vancouver Elite Travel Service

Vancouver Elite Travel Service

Choosing this service means you're not just getting from point A to point B; you're ensuring that your journey is as enjoyable and stress-free as the destination itself. When it comes to your journey from Vancouver to Banff, prioritizing safety and comfort ensures a worry-free travel experience. Banff offers a variety of green travel choices that align with preserving its natural beauty. This personalized approach ensures that your journey isn't just a travel from point A to B, but a memorable experience tailored exclusively for you.

Luxury Travel Service

  1. Limousine Rental
  2. Luxury Event Car Service
  3. Private Minivan Service
  4. Luxury Van Service
  5. Luxury Transfer Service
  6. Luxury Sedan Rental
  7. Luxury Travel Transportation
  8. Luxury Car Hire
  9. Luxury Hotel Shuttle
  10. Airport Limo
  11. Luxury Fleet
  12. VIP Transportation
  13. Luxury Party Bus
  14. Luxury Car Service
  15. VIP Car Service

You don't have to jump through hoops or navigate a maze of options. These testimonials underline Banff Transport's commitment to delivering a high-quality, personalized service. You'll find a range of vehicles designed to meet every need, from intimate family outings to larger group excursions. Luxury Hotel Transfer
In essence, it's all about elevating your experience from the ordinary to the extraordinary. Read more about Premium Limo Service Vancouver here To ensure these moments stick with you, take plenty of photos and videos. If music isn't what you're in the mood for, there's also a selection of audiobooks and podcasts available at your fingertips.
It's all about adding that touch of luxury and convenience to your journey. You don't have to worry about navigating through traffic or finding parking. You're in safe hands, as their commitment to your health extends beyond the vehicle's cleanliness.

VIP Cruise Port Transportation Vancouver

Instead, you'll be free to relax or catch up on work while your professional driver handles the road. With their in-depth knowledge of the city, you'll have insider access to the best routes, avoiding unnecessary delays and ensuring you arrive at your destination on time, every time. Once you've filled in the necessary details, you'll be prompted to review the available vehicle options. Once there, you'll be prompted to enter your pickup and drop-off locations, along with your preferred pickup time. The service is designed to cater to your needs, ensuring your travel experience is as stress-free and enjoyable as possible.

Safety and comfort aren't just promised; they're delivered, making your travel experience truly luxurious.

Luxury Hotel Transfer

  1. Executive Limo
  2. Luxury Travel Service
  3. Luxury Event Transportation
  4. Corporate Executive Transport
  5. High-End Chauffeur
  6. Limousine Rental
  7. Luxury Event Car Service
  8. Private Minivan Service
  9. Luxury Van Service
  10. Luxury Transfer Service
  11. Luxury Sedan Rental
  12. Luxury Travel Transportation
  13. Luxury Car Hire
  14. Luxury Hotel Shuttle
  15. Airport Limo
  16. Luxury Fleet
  17. VIP Transportation
  18. Luxury Party Bus
  19. Luxury Car Service
This isn't just travel; it's a retreat from the world, a space where you can breathe freely, away from prying eyes and the clamor of crowds. Banff Transport doesn't just offer a ride; they provide an experience. It's tailored to cater to your preferences, whether you're planning a sophisticated business trip or a lavish leisure outing.

It felt like a premium experience from start to finish.'Jasmine T.

High-End Chauffeur

  1. Private Luxury Car
  2. VIP Airport Pickup
  3. Luxury Chauffeur Service
  4. Luxury Corporate Travel
  5. Private Event Transportation
  6. Private Limo
  7. VIP Travel Service
  8. Private VIP Car Service
  9. Private Chauffeur
  10. Business Transportation
  11. Luxury Limousine
  12. Luxury Ground Transportation
  13. Business Executive Shuttle
  14. Private Chauffeured Van
  15. Executive Car Service
  16. High-End Shuttle
  17. Luxury SUV Rental
  18. Luxury Town Car
  19. Limousine Rental
  20. Luxury Event Car Service
appreciated the attention to detail, saying, 'From the moment I booked, everything was handled so efficiently. 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. Every vehicle is maintained to the highest standards, ensuring that it arrives in pristine condition, ready to whisk you away without a hitch. Banff Transport prides itself on its flexibility, offering services 24/7 to accommodate early flights, late-night events, and everything in between.

You can expect your ride to arrive on time, every time, minimizing any stress related to schedules or delays. Depending on when you're traveling, you'll face different climates and conditions that could impact your journey.

Corporate Car Service

  1. Private Minivan Service
  2. Luxury Van Service
  3. Luxury Transfer Service
  4. Luxury Sedan Rental
  5. Luxury Travel Transportation
  6. Luxury Car Hire
  7. Luxury Hotel Shuttle
  8. Airport Limo
  9. Luxury Fleet
  10. VIP Transportation
  11. Luxury Party Bus
  12. Luxury Car Service
  13. VIP Car Service
  14. Executive Van Service
  15. Luxury Airport Shuttle
  16. Luxury Night Out Transport
Whether you're heading to a business meeting or exploring Vancouver's beautiful sights, Banff Transport ensures that your travel is as memorable as your destination. If you decide on a whim to take a detour to a hidden gem or a local recommendation catches your interest, you can easily adjust your schedule.

VIP Cruise Port Transportation Vancouver
Vancouver International Airport Executive Transportation
Vancouver International Airport Executive Transportation

While ensuring your booking process is seamless, Banff Transport also prioritizes your health by implementing rigorous safety and sanitation protocols for every ride. Executive Transportation We can arrange that.

High-End Chauffeur

  • Luxury Night Out Transport
  • Airport Transfer
  • Luxury City Tour
  • Luxury Prom Limo
  • Luxury Airport Pickup
  • Luxury Sedan Service
  • Luxury Ride Share
  • Luxury Limousine Rental
  • Premium Limo Service
  • Private Executive Car
  • Luxury Group Transportation
  • Luxury Ride
  • Luxury Wedding Transport
  • Private Luxury Car
  • VIP Airport Pickup
  • Luxury Chauffeur Service
  • Luxury Corporate Travel
  • Private Event Transportation
Executive Limo Your luxury private transportation service in Vancouver takes customization to the next level with tailored travel itineraries designed specifically for your interests and schedule. Fancy a closer look at the majestic Shannon Falls or the awe-inspiring Stawamus Chief? Moreover, Banff Transport encourages digital bookings and communications, cutting down on paper waste and contributing to their green initiative.

For larger parties, there are luxury vans that can comfortably accommodate groups, making sure everyone travels together in style. 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. Whether you need a quiet space to relax after a long flight or a mobile office to catch up on work, your preferences are catered to. After exploring the tailored transportation options Banff Transport offers for events, let's hear directly from customers who've experienced their luxury service first-hand.

Your comfort is our priority, which is why you'll find complimentary refreshments and snacks to keep you refreshed. Imagine stepping into a vehicle where your personal preferences are already known - from the ambient temperature to the playlist humming softly in the background. You get to enjoy high-end comfort, exceptional service, and peace of mind, all without stretching your budget. Each seat is equipped with personal charging stations, so your devices are always ready to capture the moment or keep you entertained.

It's this combination of luxury, expertise, and personalized attention that makes Banff Transport's service truly exceptional. 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. 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. Embarking from Vancouver Airport to Banff in anything less than the pinnacle of luxury is like choosing a rowboat to cross the Atlantic-it simply doesn't do the journey justice.

VIP Executive SUV Vancouver

That's the kind of impact we're talking about. Then there's the team of chauffeurs. Limousine Rental These models cater to up to 14 passengers and don't skimp on luxury, featuring leather seats, ample legroom, and onboard Wi-Fi to keep everyone connected and entertained throughout the journey. Curious about what makes this service stand out and how it can transform your next holiday? After ensuring your safety with their stringent standards, Banff Transport also makes booking your luxury ride incredibly straightforward and hassle-free.
Tailored specifically for families and groups, you're invited to discover a world where every travel necessity and luxury is anticipated and catered to.

Executive Limo

  1. Executive Limo
  2. Luxury Travel Service
  3. Luxury Event Transportation
  4. Corporate Executive Transport
  5. High-End Chauffeur
  6. Limousine Rental
  7. Luxury Event Car Service
  8. Private Minivan Service
  9. Luxury Van Service
  10. Luxury Transfer Service
  11. Luxury Sedan Rental
  12. Luxury Travel Transportation
  13. Luxury Car Hire
  14. Luxury Hotel Shuttle
  15. Airport Limo
  16. Luxury Fleet
  17. VIP Transportation
  18. Luxury Party Bus
This service isn't merely about getting from point A to B; it's a tailored experience designed to fit your unique itinerary, ensuring every detail is polished to perfection. You'll also appreciate the personalized climate control, allowing you to adjust the environment to suit everyone's comfort levels. Your wish is their command.
They've embraced hybrid and electric vehicles, significantly reducing emissions compared to traditional transportation methods. But what truly sets this service apart? After submitting your details, you'll receive a confirmation of your booking. You'll find everything you need there, from service options to scheduling.
But they don't stop there. If you have any preferences regarding temperature, music, or route, don't hesitate to let them know-they're there to make your journey as enjoyable as possible. You'll be amazed at the level of comfort and convenience they describe. With Banff Transport, you're not just getting from point A to point B; you're indulging in a seamless blend of luxury and efficiency that makes every trip memorable.

Explore Premium Limo Service Vancouver here
VIP Executive SUV Vancouver
1908 Studebaker limousine with an open driver's compartment
1953 Rolls-Royce Phantom IV (coachwork by Hooper)

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

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

Etymology

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

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

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

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

History

[edit]

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

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

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

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

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

Characteristics

[edit]

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

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

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

Stretch limousines

[edit]
Lincoln Town Car stretch limousine

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

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

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

Novelty limousines

[edit]

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

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

[edit]

See also

[edit]

References

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

 

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

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

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

Etymology

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

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

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

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

History

[edit]

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

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

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

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

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

Characteristics

[edit]

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

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

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

Stretch limousines

[edit]
Lincoln Town Car stretch limousine

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

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

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

Novelty limousines

[edit]

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

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

[edit]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ Garner, Bryan (July 28, 2009). Garner's Modern American Usage. Oxford University Press. ISBN 9780199874620. Archived from the original on July 7, 2023. Retrieved August 2, 2020.
  2. ^ a b "Definition of limousine". merriam-webster.com. October 28, 2019. Archived from the original on September 20, 2019. Retrieved November 6, 2019.
  3. ^ "Definition of Stretch Limo". merriam-webster.com. Archived from the original on July 2, 2020. Retrieved November 6, 2019.
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  12. ^ "A Car Fit For A President". Grundy Insurance. February 25, 2017. Retrieved December 6, 2023.
  13. ^ a b Jiménez, Jesus (2023-04-28). "The Long Demise of the Stretch Limousine". The New York Times. Archived from the original on 2023-04-30. Retrieved 2023-04-30.
  14. ^ Theobald, Mark; DeWinter IV, Bernie (2004). "Armbruster & Company, Tom Armbruster, Ed Robben, Armbruster/Stageway, Fort Smith, Airport Limousine, Earnhart & Johansen". coachbuilt.com. Archived from the original on 26 March 2023. Retrieved 28 December 2022.
  15. ^ Strohl, Daniel (23 September 2018). "1969 AMC Ambassador Limousine". Hemmings. Archived from the original on 28 December 2022. Retrieved 28 December 2022.
  16. ^ "Dave's Classic Limousines Pictures: Novelty Limousines". Archived from the original on July 12, 2015. Retrieved June 27, 2015.
  17. ^ Naylor, Sharon (2004). 1000 Best Wedding Bargains. Sourcebooks. p. 198. ISBN 978-1-4022-0298-8. Retrieved June 27, 2015. novelty limousines.
[edit]
  • The dictionary definition of limousine at Wiktionary
  • Media related to Limousines at Wikimedia Commons

 

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