Exclusive Bus Rental Vancouver

Exclusive Bus Rental Vancouver

Private bus rental

Whether you're dealing with last-minute changes or have special requests, they work tirelessly to ensure your satisfaction. Learn more about Star Coach here. We're also thrilled when clients like Emma share their stories. Learn more about Exclusive Bus Rental Vancouver here Want to spend a little longer soaking in the sights at a particular spot? Next, you'll input your trip details.
Post-trip, expect a follow-up to ensure your journey met all your expectations.

Bus transportation

  • Affordable bus rental
  • Sightseeing bus
  • Bus travel
  • Event shuttles
  • Vancouver
  • Executive bus charter
  • Charter vehicle
  • Bus driver service
  • Bus fleet
  • Mini coach rental
  • Community bus service
  • Tour bus rental
  • Corporate bus rental
  • Bus charter
  • Downtown Vancouver
  • Licensed bus operators
  • Vancouver region
  • Transport charter
  • Crew shuttle
Entertainment options abound, with the latest in audio-visual technology at your fingertips.

Transport charter

  • Bus transportation
  • Bus services
  • Shuttle service
  • Private group transport
  • Greater Vancouver
  • Lower Mainland BC
  • Affordable bus rental
  • Sightseeing bus
  • Bus travel
  • Event shuttles
  • Vancouver
  • Executive bus charter
  • Charter vehicle
  • Bus driver service
  • Bus fleet
Every journey you take is more than just a ride; it's an experience designed for your comfort, entertainment, and convenience.
It's all about where you want to go, at your pace, ensuring you soak in every bit of Vancouver's unique charm. Understanding the importance of affordability, Star Coach regularly offers competitive pricing that ensures you get exceptional value for your transportation needs.

Sightseeing bus

  1. Mini coach rental
  2. Community bus service
  3. Tour bus rental
  4. Corporate bus rental
  5. Bus charter
  6. Downtown Vancouver
  7. Licensed bus operators
  8. Event shuttles
  9. Vancouver
  10. Executive bus charter
  11. Charter vehicle
  12. Bus driver service
  13. Bus fleet
  14. Mini coach rental
  15. Community bus service
  16. Tour bus rental
  17. Corporate bus rental
After exploring our onboard entertainment options, let's not forget that your safety is our top priority as we cruise through Vancouver.
If something unexpected pops up, we can adjust swiftly, without disrupting your schedule. It's evident in the glowing reviews and repeat clients. And, let's not forget the climate control system, which maintains an ideal temperature, ensuring you're comfortable no matter the season.

At Star Coach Bus Rentals, safety isn't just a priority; it's a constant commitment that ensures every trip you take is as secure as it's comfortable. When you're planning a corporate event or organizing travel for a large group, you want the assurance that transportation will be the least of your worries. 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. Unlike many other bus rental services, Star Coach doesn't just slap on a one-size-fits-all price tag. Choosing Star Coach means you're making a statement.

That's why they offer personalized attention from the moment you reach out. Feeling peckish? Lower Mainland BC They're responsive, understanding, and flexible, ready to accommodate your specific needs and schedules. You won't have to worry about coordinating multiple vehicles or the stress of unexpected delays.

With Star Coach's executive fleet, you're not just traveling; you're indulging in an experience that sets a new standard for bus rental in Vancouver. You'll start by selecting your desired service, whether it's a luxury tour of Vancouver's breathtaking sights or a stylish, comfortable ride for a special event. They're not just about getting you from point A to point B; they're about making the journey as enjoyable as the destination. Star Coach prides itself on transparency, so you won't have to worry about hidden fees.

Victoria itself, with its charming downtown and beautiful Butchart Gardens, becomes even more accessible and enjoyable. You'll be whisked away in unparalleled comfort, with luxury seating that ensures every moment of your journey is as enjoyable as the destinations themselves. Imagine stepping onto a vehicle where every detail caters to your comfort and pleasure.

Private bus rental

  • Community bus service
  • Tour bus rental
  • Corporate bus rental
  • Bus charter
  • Downtown Vancouver
  • Licensed bus operators
  • Crew shuttle
  • Field trip bus
  • Vancouver area
  • Senior group travel
  • Vancouver BC
  • Bus transportation
  • Bus services
  • Shuttle service
  • Private group transport
  • Greater Vancouver
At Star Coach, we prioritize your safety above all, implementing robust measures to ensure a secure journey from start to finish.

Group Airport Transfers Vancouver

Indigenous settlement of Vancouver began more than 10,000 years ago and included the Squamish, Musqueam, and Tsleil-Waututh (Burrard) peoples. The beginnings of the modern city, which was originally named Gastown, grew around the site of a makeshift tavern on the western edges of Hastings Mill that was built on July 1, 1867, and owned by proprietor Gassy Jack. The Gastown steam clock marks the original site. Gastown then formally registered as a townsite dubbed Granville, Burrard Inlet. The city was renamed "Vancouver" in 1886 through a deal with the Canadian Pacific Railway. The Canadian Pacific transcontinental railway was extended to the city by 1887. The city's large natural seaport on the Pacific Ocean became a vital link in the trade between Asia-Pacific, East Asia, Europe, and Eastern Canada.

Citations and other links

Executive Chauffeured Coach Bus Vancouver

Exploring Vancouver becomes an elevated experience when you choose a luxury bus for your transportation. They've set the bar high, integrating advanced safety measures and rigorous maintenance protocols to give you peace of mind. Star Coach Bus Rentals empower you to tailor your Vancouver journey, ensuring each destination on your itinerary aligns perfectly with your group's preferences and interests. And it doesn't stop after you've booked your bus. From the spacious interiors that redefine comfort to the advanced safety features ensuring your journey is as secure as it is enjoyable, these coaches offer a glimpse into a new kind of travel luxury.

You can rest easy knowing they've got every detail covered, allowing you to focus on enjoying your trip. If you have any special requests or need advice on planning your itinerary, now's the time to ask. Whether it's a corporate event, a family reunion, or a sightseeing tour, clients feel they're in good hands. Moreover, Star Coach understands the importance of flexibility in pricing.

But the question remains: does this upscale approach to group transport genuinely enhance the overall appeal of Vancouver as a travel destination? Their drivers are professionals who know the ins and outs of Vancouver, ensuring that you reach your destination efficiently, avoiding unnecessary delays. Affordable bus rental Instead, you can pick and choose the amenities and services that best fit your group's preferences and budget. This shift drastically cuts down on carbon emissions, making your journey greener. Vancouver region

Whether it's a high-profile conference or a lavish wedding, Star Coach's premier event transportation service promises punctuality, privacy, and unparalleled luxury. Private group transport By opting for their services, you're not just getting from point A to B; you're actively participating in a movement towards a greener planet. 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. From the moment you reach out with an inquiry, you're met with a team eager to cater to your every need.

Executive Chauffeured Coach Bus Vancouver
High-End Corporate Coach Vancouver

High-End Corporate Coach Vancouver

Star Coach elevates your travel experience by offering customized luxury experiences tailored to your specific needs and desires. With competitive pricing and a commitment to eco-friendly transportation, they cater to a wide array of events, solidifying their stellar reputation in the industry.

Bus services

  • Executive bus charter
  • Charter vehicle
  • Bus driver service
  • Bus fleet
  • Mini coach rental
  • Community bus service
  • Tour bus rental
  • Corporate bus rental
  • Bus charter
  • Downtown Vancouver
  • Licensed bus operators
  • Private group transport
  • Greater Vancouver
  • Lower Mainland BC
  • Affordable bus rental
  • Sightseeing bus
  • Bus travel
Each bus is regularly updated and checked for any signs of wear and tear. It's quiet too, with advanced sound insulation that keeps the hustle and bustle of the streets at bay. Star Coach goes beyond just providing a bus; they tailor your travel experience to meet your specific needs and preferences.

And let's not forget the climate control system, keeping the interior at a perfect, comfortable temperature regardless of what's happening outside. Here, you'll find an intuitive booking platform that guides you through selecting your desired service. They've left no stone unturned in integrating comprehensive safety measures that exceed industry standards. Plus, the onboard entertainment options are designed to make the miles fly by.

Her excitement mirrors the feedback we receive regularly. 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. From route planning to onboard amenities, they've got you covered, making sure that your corporate image is well represented. Beyond the comfort and amenities, you'll also appreciate Star Coach's commitment to punctuality and reliability, ensuring your travel plans stay on track.

Greater Vancouver

  1. Vancouver area
  2. Senior group travel
  3. Vancouver BC
  4. Bus transportation
  5. Bus services
  6. Shuttle service
  7. Private group transport
  8. Greater Vancouver
  9. Lower Mainland BC
  10. Affordable bus rental
  11. Sightseeing bus
  12. Bus travel
  13. Event shuttles
  14. Vancouver
  15. Executive bus charter
  16. Charter vehicle
  17. Bus driver service


Imagine gliding through the bustling city streets or the serene landscapes surrounding this urban oasis, all while enveloped in the lap of luxury. Whether you're organizing a corporate event, planning a family reunion, or setting up a tour for a group of friends, they've got you covered. Bus transportation Need onboard Wi-Fi and charging stations to keep everyone connected on the go? They understand that their reputation rides on every journey, and they're committed to exceeding your expectations.

Vancouver Executive Bus Transportation

You'll find plush seating, high-speed Wi-Fi, and advanced entertainment systems on board. They'll map it out. You won't find a one-size-fits-all approach here. High-speed Wi-Fi keeps you connected, whether you're catching up on work or streaming your favorite show. Senior group travel That's why we offer options ranging from basic transportation services to comprehensive travel packages that include guided tours and scheduled stops at Vancouver's must-see attractions.

Vancouver region

  • Sightseeing bus
  • Bus travel
  • Event shuttles
  • Vancouver
  • Executive bus charter
  • Charter vehicle
  • Bus driver service
  • Bus fleet
  • Mini coach rental
  • Community bus service
  • Tour bus rental
  • Corporate bus rental
  • Bus charter
  • Downtown Vancouver
  • Licensed bus operators
  • Lower Mainland BC
  • Affordable bus rental
  • Sightseeing bus

Connectivity's not an issue either.

Vancouver region

  • Bus charter
  • Downtown Vancouver
  • Licensed bus operators
  • Vancouver
  • Executive bus charter
  • Charter vehicle
  • Bus driver service
  • Bus fleet
  • Mini coach rental
  • Community bus service
  • Tour bus rental
  • Corporate bus rental
  • Bus charter
  • Downtown Vancouver
  • Licensed bus operators
  • Vancouver
  • Executive bus charter
  • Charter vehicle
  • Bus driver service
Whether it's arranging for exclusive entry to attractions, recommending hidden gems in Vancouver, or ensuring that your onboard experience is nothing short of luxurious, we're committed to delivering a service that exceeds your expectations. Their fleet stands out with state-of-the-art amenities, ensuring your travel isn't just comfortable but also exceptionally enjoyable. And as you're about to find out, their reputation for excellence isn't just talk.
With Star Coach Bus Rentals, you're not just booking a trip; you're crafting an experience tailored just for you and your group. Your Vancouver experience is enhanced not only by the destinations but by the journey itself. Crew shuttle Read more about Exclusive Bus Rental Vancouver here It's this kind of attention to detail that sets Star Coach apart, making them not just a service you use but one you wholeheartedly recommend. So, when you book with Star Coach, you're not just getting a bus; you're securing peace of mind knowing you've made a cost-effective choice without compromising on quality.
Each seat comes equipped with personal entertainment systems, ensuring you're entertained throughout your journey. Star Coach also offers flexible payment plans, making it easier to manage your budget. You'll sink into plush seating, enjoy ambient lighting, and have access to state-of-the-art entertainment systems. What sets Star Coach apart is their attention to detail.

Vancouver BC

  1. Executive bus charter
  2. Charter vehicle
  3. Bus driver service
  4. Bus fleet
  5. Mini coach rental
  6. Community bus service
  7. Tour bus rental
  8. Corporate bus rental
  9. Bus charter
  10. Downtown Vancouver
  11. Licensed bus operators
  12. Shuttle service
  13. Private group transport
  14. Greater Vancouver
  15. Lower Mainland BC
  16. Affordable bus rental
  17. Sightseeing bus
  18. Bus travel
  19. Event shuttles
  20. Vancouver

Vancouver Executive Bus Transportation
Long-Distance Charter Buses Vancouver
Long-Distance Charter Buses Vancouver

It's not just about the fuel, though. Need a tour guide to provide insights during your journey? From sleek minibusses for smaller groups to full-sized coaches for larger gatherings, their fleet is versatile enough to accommodate any occasion. You'll also find that each vehicle undergoes rigorous maintenance and safety checks before hitting the road, guaranteeing your ride isn't only comfortable but also dependable. They don't just offer a ride; they provide a travel experience that's steeped in comfort and convenience, making every journey memorable.

With Star Coach, strategic route planning isn't just a service-it's a promise for a stress-free travel experience. You're not just renting a bus; you're crafting an unforgettable experience tailored just for you and your group. It's a smart choice, reducing the number of vehicles on the road, cutting down on traffic congestion, and significantly lowering the per-person carbon emissions. Private bus rental Need a specific layout for the seats?

It's not just a bus ride; it's an experience that caters to your every need. Star Coach has got you covered. Booking your luxury bus rental in Vancouver has never been easier or more tailored to your preferences. 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.

Each bus in the fleet is fitted with plush, reclining leather seats, ensuring a ride that's not just comfortable but truly first-class. No problem. Whether you're celebrating a milestone birthday, organizing a wedding, or planning any significant celebration, Star Coach's bus rental services in Vancouver offer the perfect transportation solution for your special event. They've set a new standard for group travel!'John, who organized a family reunion, shares, 'The booking was hassle-free, and the ride was so comfortable that even our oldest family members were impressed.

Upscale Shuttle Service Vancouver

Imagine gliding through the vibrant streets, where every corner turned unveils a piece of the city's heart and history. Star Coach Bus Rentals elevates your travel plans with customizable tour packages designed to fit your unique needs and preferences. We've designed our buses with your relaxation in mind. Questions?
Consider it done. Each vehicle is meticulously maintained and features state-of-the-art amenities to ensure your journey is as comfortable as it's memorable. It's a game-changer.

Safe bus rental

  1. Bus fleet
  2. Mini coach rental
  3. Community bus service
  4. Tour bus rental
  5. Corporate bus rental
  6. Bus charter
  7. Downtown Vancouver
  8. Licensed bus operators
  9. Senior group travel
  10. Vancouver BC
  11. Bus transportation
  12. Bus services
  13. Shuttle service
  14. Private group transport
  15. Greater Vancouver
  16. Lower Mainland BC
  17. Affordable bus rental
  18. Sightseeing bus

From the plush seating that whispers comfort to the entertainment features that keep the boredom at bay, there's a lot to discuss about how these buses are redefining travel norms. With a fleet of well-maintained and comfortable buses, they make sure that your journey is as smooth as possible. The aisles are wide, facilitating easy movement throughout the bus, whether you're accessing the onboard restroom or simply stretching your legs.
After exploring what makes Star Coach Bus Rentals a trusted choice for travelers, it's time to see how they can elevate your Vancouver adventure. Stick around, and you'll discover how Star Coach is not only transporting passengers but also transporting the industry into a new era of luxury and responsibility. Sightseeing bus School trips become memorable adventures in safety and comfort, while nights out are elevated to new heights of excitement without the worry of parking or driving.

Explore Exclusive Bus Rental Vancouver here
Upscale 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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