Executive Bus Rentals Vancouver

Executive Bus Rentals Vancouver

Event transportation

Their dedicated corporate services team works closely with you to tailor every detail to your specific needs. Another success story comes from a bride who used Star Coach for her wedding day.

Wedding bus rental

  1. Luxury transportation
  2. Sightseeing bus
  3. Bus line
  4. Event shuttles
  5. Safe bus rental
  6. Travel coach
  7. Luxury transportation
  8. Sightseeing bus
  9. Bus line
  10. Event shuttles
  11. Safe bus rental
  12. Travel coach
  13. Luxury transportation
  14. Sightseeing bus
  15. Bus line
  16. Event shuttles
  17. Safe bus rental
Adjustable LED lighting sets the perfect atmosphere, whether you're catching up on work or sinking into a movie on your tablet. Learn more about Executive Bus Rentals Vancouver here Building on our commitment to a customized luxury experience, we equip each bus with advanced onboard amenities to enhance your journey.
It's a win-win: you enjoy top-notch service while supporting eco-conscious transportation. We're committed to providing a seamless booking experience, mirroring the exceptional quality of travel you can expect with us. Each vehicle is equipped with top-notch amenities to ensure your trip is as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.
What sets Star Coach apart is its team of knowledgeable guides. Once you've filled in the basics, you'll get a quote. Moreover, Star Coach's customer service is top-notch.
Their drivers are more than just operators; they're ambassadors of the Star Coach experience.

Senior group travel

  1. Event transportation
  2. Shuttle service
  3. Corporate bus rental
  4. Community bus service
  5. Group transportation
  6. Bus packages
  7. Tour bus rental
  8. Wedding bus rental
  9. Greater Vancouver
  10. Bus charter
  11. Senior group travel
  12. Long-distance bus
  13. Airport transfer
  14. Bus services
  15. Casino shuttle
  16. Passenger bus rental
  17. Luxury transportation
  18. Sightseeing bus
  19. Bus line
You've got the freedom to design your itinerary, from the iconic Stanley Park to the historic Gastown, without worrying about schedules or stops. They understand that time is of the essence, whether you're heading to a corporate event, a wedding, or a group tour.

Senior group travel Learn more about Star Coach here.

These aren't your run-of-the-mill bus rides. While considering the environmental benefits of choosing Star Coach, don't overlook the exceptional onboard amenities that await you. You'll find plush seating that makes long trips feel like a breeze, Wi-Fi to keep you connected, and entertainment systems to keep boredom at bay. This level of ease and flexibility makes Star Coach the go-to option for hassle-free bus rentals in Vancouver. This isn't just about having a place to put your suitcase; it's about creating an environment where you're free to unwind, work, or socialize without the constraints of tight spaces.

Instead, imagine your workforce arriving at conferences, meetings, or corporate retreats in the comfort and style of a luxury Prevost H3-45 coach. It's not just about arriving at your destination but doing so when you expect to, without any unpleasant surprises.

Group transportation

  • Event shuttles
  • Safe bus rental
  • Travel coach
  • Passenger bus rental
  • Luxury transportation
  • Sightseeing bus
  • Bus line
  • Event shuttles
  • Safe bus rental
  • Travel coach
  • Passenger bus rental
  • Luxury transportation
  • Sightseeing bus
  • Bus line
  • Event shuttles
  • Safe bus rental
  • Travel coach
  • Passenger bus rental
Star Coach elevates the bus rental experience in Vancouver by offering unmatched luxury and personalized service. It's like traveling in a first-class lounge that moves.

Whether you're eyeing their stylish fleet for a corporate event, a customized travel plan for a scenic tour, or the peace of mind that comes from their stringent safety protocols, Star Coach seems to have all the bases covered. Imagine cruising along the scenic Sea-to-Sky Highway, where the Pacific Ocean meets soaring mountains. Star Coach hasn't just thought about your comfort and connectivity; they've ensured every aspect of your journey is taken care of. The Prevost H3-45 luxury coach redefines your travel experience with its spacious interiors, offering more room for both comfort and storage.

You'll find their team attentive to every detail. This isn't by accident.

Greater Vancouver

  • Event shuttles
  • Safe bus rental
  • Travel coach
  • Corporate bus rental
  • Community bus service
  • Group transportation
  • Bus packages
  • Tour bus rental
  • Wedding bus rental
  • Greater Vancouver
  • Bus charter
  • Senior group travel
  • Long-distance bus
  • Airport transfer
  • Bus services
  • Casino shuttle
  • Passenger bus rental
  • Luxury transportation
  • Sightseeing bus
  • Bus line
We believe in the power of sustainable travel and are dedicated to implementing eco-friendly practices across our operations. Safety and comfort are their top priorities, so you can rest assured that every detail, from the driver's expertise to the vehicle's maintenance, is taken care of. Long-distance bus

Wedding Transportation 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

Private VIP Bus Service Vancouver

Moreover, the attention to detail in the amenities provided ensures that your journey is as enjoyable as the destination itself. This means you're not left to navigate the overwhelming options alone. Our buses don't just transport you; they transform your experience. There are no hidden fees or surprise charges; what you see is what you get. Their experience isn't just about years on the road; it's about understanding what makes a trip memorable and stress-free for you.

Long-distance bus

  • Sightseeing bus
  • Bus line
  • Event shuttles
  • Safe bus rental
  • Travel coach
  • Bus packages
  • Tour bus rental
  • Wedding bus rental
  • Greater Vancouver
  • Bus charter
  • Senior group travel
  • Long-distance bus
  • Airport transfer
  • Bus services
  • Casino shuttle
  • Passenger bus rental
  • Luxury transportation
  • Sightseeing bus
  • Bus line


Star Coach's commitment to eco-friendly practices marks a significant step toward pioneering sustainable travel in the bus rental industry.

Bus services

  • Safe bus rental
  • Travel coach
  • Casino shuttle
  • Passenger bus rental
  • Luxury transportation
  • Sightseeing bus
  • Bus line
  • Event shuttles
  • Safe bus rental
  • Travel coach
  • Casino shuttle
  • Passenger bus rental
  • Luxury transportation
  • Sightseeing bus
  • Bus line
These coaches aren't about mere travel; they're about creating unforgettable moments. You'll appreciate knowing that every trip you take contributes to a greener planet. They've got a modern, streamlined body that reflects the latest in automotive design trends.

Whether you're planning a corporate retreat, a wedding, or a school outing, they've got you covered. Star Coach offers a variety of luxury buses to suit different group sizes and preferences, so you'll easily find one that fits your needs. Transitioning to personal celebrations, luxury bus rental in Vancouver can significantly elevate your wedding transportation, ensuring that your guests arrive in style and comfort. Their dedicated team works closely with you to understand your specific requirements, offering personalized recommendations that elevate your travel experience.

It's like stepping into a private retreat where the hustle and bustle of the outside world fades away. You're saying yes to cutting-edge, environmentally friendly travel. In short, Star Coach's dedication to exceptional customer service isn't just about meeting expectations; it's about exceeding them, ensuring that every aspect of your luxury bus rental experience in Vancouver is nothing short of spectacular. You won't be left hanging.

Private VIP Bus Service Vancouver
Vancouver Cruise Terminal Transportation

Vancouver Cruise Terminal Transportation

It's this dedication to safety and maintenance that sets them apart, making them a top choice for corporate and event travel. Each bus in our fleet isn't just a vehicle; it's a promise of safety, comfort, and luxury that we take seriously. She was thrilled with the attentive service, stating that the driver went above and beyond to ensure the bridal party felt comfortable and arrived on time. From the plush, reclining leather seats that cradle you in comfort to the ambient lighting that sets the perfect mood, we've got everything covered.
We'll work closely with you to bring your vision to life, down to the finest detail. They're committed to delivering a worry-free travel experience, where you can sit back, relax, and enjoy everything Vancouver has to offer. Star Coach doesn't stop at their vehicles. Greater Vancouver
Our fleet includes everything from cozy minibuses perfect for smaller groups to full-sized luxury coaches that can accommodate larger parties with ease.

Shuttle service

  • Luxury transportation
  • Sightseeing bus
  • Bus line
  • Event shuttles
  • Safe bus rental
  • Travel coach
  • Group transportation
  • Bus packages
  • Tour bus rental
  • Wedding bus rental
  • Greater Vancouver
  • Bus charter
  • Senior group travel
  • Long-distance bus
  • Airport transfer
  • Bus services
  • Casino shuttle
  • Passenger bus rental
  • Luxury transportation
You'll be in safe hands with our professional drivers who've undergone extensive background checks and possess years of experience navigating Vancouver's streets. Read more about Executive Bus Rentals Vancouver here These coaches are designed to be more fuel-efficient and emit fewer pollutants compared to older models or smaller vehicles carrying fewer passengers.
You'll find yourself at the heart of Vancouver's most iconic locations, from the bustling Granville Island Market to the serene Queen Elizabeth Park, without the usual hassles of city exploration. Airport transfer They're with you every step of the way, from pre-trip planning to post-trip follow-up, ensuring your experience is smooth and hassle-free. Bus charter That's where Star Coach shines.

Custom Bus Rental Vancouver

Once you've filled in all the details, submit your request. Highly recommend Star Coach for any group looking to travel in comfort.'These testimonials highlight the satisfaction and high regard clients have for Star Coach. You're not just getting a bus; you're getting a personalized travel experience. You've likely heard their name mentioned among circles planning upscale events or corporate gatherings.

Embarking on a tour with Star Coach Bus Rentals offers you the chance to discover Vancouver's renowned landmarks up close and personal.

Community bus service

  • Bus charter
  • Senior group travel
  • Long-distance bus
  • Airport transfer
  • Bus services
  • Casino shuttle
  • Passenger bus rental
  • Luxury transportation
  • Sightseeing bus
  • Bus line
  • Event shuttles
  • Safe bus rental
  • Travel coach
  • Greater Vancouver
  • Bus charter
  • Senior group travel
  • Long-distance bus
But that's not all. From seamless booking processes to comprehensive safety measures and exceptional customer service, every aspect of your journey is meticulously planned and executed.

Corporate bus rental

  • Wedding bus rental
  • Greater Vancouver
  • Bus charter
  • Senior group travel
  • Long-distance bus
  • Airport transfer
  • Bus services
  • Casino shuttle
  • Passenger bus rental
  • Luxury transportation
  • Sightseeing bus
  • Bus line
  • Event shuttles
  • Safe bus rental
  • Travel coach
  • Wedding bus rental
  • Greater Vancouver


Star Coach takes that load off your shoulders. Think champagne on ice, a red carpet service, and vehicles adorned with ribbons and flowers to match your wedding colors. Plus, if you have any questions or need to tailor your rental to specific requirements, Star Coach's customer support is just a call or an email away, ready to assist you with efficiency and friendliness.

It's an extension of your wedding's theme and elegance, seamlessly integrating with the day's festivities. Hand sanitizers are available on all buses, and high-touch areas are regularly disinfected. 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.

Custom Bus Rental Vancouver
Airport Transfer Charter Buses Vancouver
Airport Transfer Charter Buses Vancouver

You're looking for value without compromise, and that's exactly what we deliver. That's possible too. Star Coach understands the essence of group dynamics and tailors services to meet your needs, whether it's for corporate events, school field trips, or leisurely tours. We understand that every journey is unique, and that's why we tailor our services to meet your specific needs.

For your comfort, we've installed adjustable lighting and climate controls at every seat, allowing you to create your own personal oasis. Free Wi-Fi, charging ports for your devices, and onboard entertainment systems mean you'll stay connected and entertained, no matter how long the road ahead. Need to talk to someone?

Feedback is a cornerstone of our approach to customer service. So, whether you're in it for the scenery, the company, or both, we're committed to providing you with an unparalleled travel experience. Star Coach's approach to safety is proactive, not reactive. Corporate bus rental

This means you're in hands that know how to navigate the roads and any unexpected situations that might arise, ensuring you arrive at your destination not just on time, but also safely. On the other hand, their minibuses are perfect for navigating the city's bustling streets, offering easy access to all the sights and sounds without the hassle of parking large vehicles. You've probably heard the theory that luxury transportation can significantly elevate a city's tourism experience, but have you ever wondered just how much of an impact it truly has?

Premium Comfort Coach Rental Vancouver

Star Coach makes these and many more destinations within your reach, ensuring your travels are as splendid as the sights you're set to explore. This human touch transforms a simple ride into a pleasant travel experience. Whether you're planning a corporate event, a luxurious wedding, or a scenic tour across Vancouver's breathtaking landscapes, they've got you covered. While enjoying the luxury and freedom of bus travel in Vancouver, you also have the option to tailor your journey with customizable travel packages. You're all set for a luxurious and memorable trip with Star Coach, where your comfort and satisfaction are their top priority.
You can reach out via phone or email, and we'll assist you in tailoring your reservation to meet your specific needs. You got it. You decide the pace, the places, and the people. It's their attention to detail and customer service that really sets them apart.
You don't have to worry about the stress of finding the quickest path; we've got it covered. If you're happy with the offer, you can confirm your booking with just a few more clicks. Rates are transparent, with no hidden fees lurking to surprise you later. With our executive fleet, you have the flexibility to customize your travel itinerary.

Tour bus rental

  1. Event shuttles
  2. Safe bus rental
  3. Travel coach
  4. Tour bus rental
  5. Wedding bus rental
  6. Greater Vancouver
  7. Bus charter
  8. Senior group travel
  9. Long-distance bus
  10. Airport transfer
  11. Bus services
  12. Casino shuttle
  13. Passenger bus rental
  14. Luxury transportation
  15. Sightseeing bus
  16. Bus line
  17. Event shuttles
  18. Safe bus rental
  19. Travel coach

To ensure your journey isn't just comfortable but also entertaining, our luxury buses are equipped with cutting-edge entertainment options. It's truly luxury on wheels. Imagine arriving at your destination in style, comfort, and without the hassle of coordinating multiple cars or worrying about parking. High-speed Wi-Fi connectivity onboard ensures you're always connected, whether it's for streaming entertainment, catching up on work, or sharing your adventure on social media.

Explore Executive Bus Rentals Vancouver here
Premium Comfort Coach Rental 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

 

Frequently Asked Questions

When you face an issue during your rental, Star Coach promptly addresses it. They've got a dedicated team to handle complaints, ensuring your experience is smooth and any problems are resolved quickly and efficiently.

Yes, you can place last-minute booking requests, but it might affect pricing and availability. Expect to pay a premium for the convenience, and there's a chance your preferred options may not be available.

You might face some destination restrictions with Star Coach buses, especially regarding remote or off-road locations. It's best to check in advance if your specific destination might pose any challenges for their buses.