High-End Black Car Service Vancouver

High-End Black Car Service Vancouver

Luxury Limousine Rental

Banff Transport has integrated cutting-edge green technologies into their fleet, ensuring that the vehicles you travel in are among the most eco-friendly on the market. Learn more about High-End Black Car Service Vancouver here You've got a myriad of choices at your disposal, ensuring your journey from Vancouver Airport to Banff is as seamless as it's luxurious. Private VIP Car Service With an intimate knowledge of the area, they can offer recommendations, share stories, and even tailor your journey to include hidden gems along the way. Their streamlined online platform allows you to select your preferred luxury vehicle, specify pickup and drop-off times, and even customize your ride preferences in a matter of minutes.
When you choose our service, you're not just getting a ride; you're ensuring that every part of your journey is in capable hands. You're not just limited to vehicle choice; Banff Transport allows you to set the ambiance for your journey. The possibilities are endless.
Securing your luxury private transportation from Vancouver to Banff is an effortless process, designed to match the convenience and comfort of your upcoming journey. Moreover, Banff Transport prioritizes your privacy with discretion being a cornerstone of their service. This transparency ensures you're well-informed every step of the way.
Moreover, Banff Transport doesn't believe in hidden fees. These exclusive discounts can significantly reduce your travel expenses, making luxury transport more accessible for your family or group outings. We understand the importance of staying refreshed, which is why we offer complimentary refreshments and snacks. Learn more about Banff Transport here.

That's why we've gone to great lengths to include a variety of models from top luxury brands. Whether you're arriving from a long flight and heading straight to your cruise or ferry, or you're returning from a serene trip and need a ride to your hotel or airport, we've got you covered. While ensuring your safety is our top concern, we also specialize in providing exclusive airport transfers to elevate your travel experience further.

Corporate Car Service

  1. Luxury Private Coach
  2. High-End Shuttle
  3. Executive Limo
  4. Corporate Car Service
  5. Luxury Car Hire
  6. Private Chauffeur
  7. Airport Limo
  8. Luxury Airport Shuttle
  9. Limousine Rental
  10. Private Airport Transfer
  11. Luxury Transfer Service
  12. Private VIP Car Service
  13. Luxury Travel Service
  14. Luxury Private Coach
  15. High-End Shuttle
  16. Executive Limo
  17. Corporate Car Service
  18. Luxury Car Hire
You don't have to worry about navigating through traffic or finding parking.

Another customer, Mark, highlights the exceptional customer service during a corporate event. 'The team handled every detail with professionalism. Stay with us as we unveil the secrets behind their success and what sets them apart in the bustling city of Vancouver. Moreover, booking and rescheduling are made simple.

If music isn't what you're in the mood for, there's also a selection of audiobooks and podcasts available at your fingertips. Whether you're seeking the opulence of a private limousine or the practicality of a luxury SUV, Banff's transport services cater to your every need. After exploring the various ways to journey from Vancouver Airport to Banff, let's focus on what sets luxury private transportation apart and how it elevates your travel experience.

From the moment you book with Banff Transport, you'll notice the difference. You'll find yourself surrounded by the epitome of comfort and style, as each vehicle in the lineup is chosen with your satisfaction in mind.

Executive Transportation

  1. Private Airport Transfer
  2. Limousine Rental
  3. Private Airport Transfer
  4. Limousine Rental
  5. Private Airport Transfer
  6. Limousine Rental
  7. Private Airport Transfer
  8. Limousine Rental
  9. Private Airport Transfer
  10. Limousine Rental
  11. Private Airport Transfer
  12. Limousine Rental
  13. Private Airport Transfer
  14. Limousine Rental
  15. Private Airport Transfer
  16. Limousine Rental
Prefer a more personal touch?

Citations and other links

Luxury Cruise Terminal Transfer Vancouver

You'll find their booking system user-friendly, accessible either through their official website or by directly calling their customer service line. You're not just booking a ride; you're securing a premium experience that adds a touch of elegance and class to your event. Private Airport Transfer Or, picture the convenience of a private shuttle, waiting to whisk you away to your next adventure, without the hassle of public transport schedules. Whether you're on your desktop or mobile device, the experience is designed to be seamless and intuitive. Luxury Travel Service
Spring and fall bring milder weather, but with it, unpredictable changes. You'll rest easy knowing that each vehicle in their fleet is rigorously inspected and maintained to meet the highest safety protocols. Banff Transport's customer service team is just a phone call away. Luxury Party Bus
Imagine sipping on champagne as you glide through the majestic landscapes in a chauffeur-driven vehicle. After exploring the benefits of luxury travel, it's time to consider how customizing your journey can further enhance your trip from Vancouver Airport to Banff. Read more about High-End Black Car Service Vancouver here Next, consider your schedule.
To ensure these moments stick with you, take plenty of photos and videos. They're not just behind the wheel; they're your concierges on the road, ready to adapt the journey to your needs and preferences. The vehicles are top-of-the-line, ensuring not only a smooth and safe journey but also one that wraps you in luxury.

Airport Limo

  1. Private Executive Car
  2. Executive Van Service
  3. Luxury Party Bus
  4. Luxury Car Service
  5. Luxury Private Coach
  6. Private Chauffeur
  7. Corporate Car Service
  8. Luxury Fleet
  9. Luxury Limousine
  10. Luxury Airport Shuttle
  11. Luxury City Tour
  12. Luxury Night Out Transport
  13. Luxury Airport Pickup
  14. Luxury Transfer Service
  15. Luxury Car Rental

Luxury Cruise Terminal Transfer Vancouver
Vancouver Elite Travel Service

Vancouver Elite Travel Service

These may include the famous Banff National Park, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, wildlife, and numerous outdoor activities. With Banff Transport, luxury transportation doesn't have to be a luxury expense.

Executive Van Service

  • Private Chauffeur
  • Airport Limo
  • Luxury Airport Shuttle
  • Limousine Rental
  • Private Airport Transfer
  • Private Chauffeur
  • Airport Limo
  • Luxury Airport Shuttle
  • Limousine Rental
  • Private Airport Transfer
  • Private Chauffeur
  • Airport Limo
  • Luxury Airport Shuttle
  • Limousine Rental
  • Private Airport Transfer
  • Private Chauffeur
  • Airport Limo
  • Luxury Airport Shuttle
  • Limousine Rental
  • Private Airport Transfer
Each vehicle in the fleet isn't just about space; they're about experiencing luxury on the road.

Private Chauffeur

  1. Private Chauffeur
  2. Airport Limo
  3. Luxury Airport Shuttle
  4. Limousine Rental
  5. Private Airport Transfer
  6. Private VIP Car Service
  7. Luxury Travel Service
  8. Luxury Private Coach
  9. High-End Shuttle
  10. Executive Limo
  11. Corporate Car Service
  12. Luxury Car Hire
  13. Private Chauffeur
  14. Airport Limo
  15. Luxury Airport Shuttle
Each vehicle in Banff Transport's fleet is fitted with state-of-the-art safety technologies, including adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking. Should you have any special requests or need further assistance, customer service is readily available.

You're dealing with professionals who know the importance of punctuality, discretion, and personalized attention. We can arrange that. Executive Limo Whether you're planning a quiet getaway or a full-fledged family adventure, you'll find an option that perfectly matches your preferences and requirements. Luxury Car Service You're not just getting a ride; you're crafting an experience tailored just for you.

That's the promise of Banff Transport, redefining airport transfers with a service that elevates your travel experience from the moment you land. Delving into the specifics, luxury private transportation offers a range of service features designed to ensure your journey is as comfortable as it's seamless. Moreover, their customer service is just a click or call away, ready to assist with any inquiries or special requests.

Luxury Car Service

  • Private Airport Transfer
  • Luxury Airport Shuttle
  • Limousine Rental
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Luxury travel means you're prioritized in every aspect.

You're not just moving between two points; you're embarking on a voyage through diverse ecosystems and geological wonders. They've got you covered. Opting for a luxury private transportation service from Vancouver to Banff elevates your journey with exclusive features and amenities designed for comfort and indulgence. What's more, Banff Transport's family packages aren't just about the ride.

Airport Meet & Greet Vancouver

Our SUVs and stretch limousines also offer additional space and amenities, making them perfect for groups or special occasions. They understand that it's the little details that make a journey memorable. Banff Transport doesn't just offer a ride; they provide an experience. You're not merely a passenger; you're a valued guest.

Their team works closely with you to plan every detail, from pick-up times to the best routes, ensuring your guests arrive comfortably and on time. If you're all about online convenience, their website is your go-to. We understand the importance of punctuality, comfort, and efficiency, especially after a long flight.

So, when you choose this luxury private transportation service, you're choosing a travel companion as flexible as your sense of adventure. Let the comfort and elegance of your luxury ride enhance your experience, making every second count. As you contemplate the convenience of moving around the city with unparalleled ease, consider the blend of sophistication and comfort that awaits you.

He says, 'Banff Transport has transformed my trips to Vancouver. Once you've filled in all the details, a confirmation of your booking will be sent directly to your email.

Limousine Rental

  • Corporate Car Service
  • Luxury Car Hire
  • Private Chauffeur
  • Airport Limo
  • Luxury Airport Shuttle
  • Limousine Rental
  • Private Airport Transfer
  • High-End Shuttle
  • Executive Limo
  • Corporate Car Service
  • Luxury Car Hire
  • Private Chauffeur
  • Airport Limo
  • Luxury Airport Shuttle
  • Limousine Rental
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From the meticulously maintained fleet that promises not just a ride but a journey, to the personalized service tailored to fit your unique needs, Banff Transport ensures your experience is nothing short of extraordinary.

Airport Meet & Greet Vancouver
Corporate Limo Service Vancouver
Corporate Limo Service Vancouver

You're in good hands with a luxury private transportation service that places your well-being at the forefront. But that's not all.

Executive Van Service

  • Luxury Event Car Service
  • Luxury Ride
  • Private Event Transportation
  • Luxury Town Car
  • Private Airport Transfer
  • Business Executive Shuttle
  • Private Luxury Car
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  • Luxury Limousine Rental
  • Executive Chauffeur
  • VIP Transportation
  • Private Car Service
  • Corporate Executive Transport
  • Luxury Sedan Service
  • High-End Chauffeur
  • Luxury Hotel Transfer
  • Luxury Ground Transportation
  • Luxury Chauffeur Service
Luxury Limousine Rental Whether you're in town for business or pleasure, there's a vehicle tailored to your needs, guaranteeing a seamless, comfortable, and stylish start or end to your journey. When you opt for a luxury private transportation service in Vancouver for your Sea to Sky travels, you're choosing a journey that promises not only exceptional comfort and privacy but also an experience tailored to your unique preferences. You'll enjoy plush seating, climate control, and entertainment options that make the miles fly by.

Luxury Private Coach

  • Airport Limo
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  • Limousine Rental
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  • Luxury Car Hire
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  • Private Chauffeur
  • Airport Limo
  • Luxury Airport Shuttle
  • Limousine Rental
  • Private Airport Transfer
  • Luxury Car Hire


In the world of high-end travel, Banff Transport has quietly revolutionized the landscape of chauffeured luxury private transportation in Vancouver, setting a new benchmark for opulence on the move. When you decide to elevate your travel experience with Banff Transport's Luxury Private Transportation Service in Vancouver, you're not just booking a ride; you're crafting an unforgettable part of your holiday. Whether you have special requests or need advice on the best option for your group, they've got you covered. This flexibility extends to last-minute changes.

Understanding the value of your money, Banff Transport offers a variety of pricing and packages designed to accommodate your specific needs and budget. Private Chauffeur You won't have to worry about fitting into a one-size-fits-all schedule.

Private VIP Car Service

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Each vehicle is meticulously maintained and equipped with privacy features, allowing you to unwind or work in peace as you travel. 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.

When you choose Banff Transport, you're not just selecting a luxury private transportation service; you're partnering with a company that places equal importance on luxury and the longevity of our planet. 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. Whether you're in need of a sleek sedan for city travel, a spacious SUV for tougher terrain, or an elegant limousine for special occasions, they've got you covered. Securing your luxury ride is a seamless process, designed to match the elegance of the journey you're about to embark on.

Business Class Transportation Vancouver

Upon your arrival, a professional chauffeur awaits, ready to take your luggage and guide you to your luxurious ride. Whether it's a small, intimate gathering or a large, lavish affair, Banff Transport's flexible packages can accommodate any group size without compromising on luxury or comfort. With luxury private transportation, you're not just a passenger; you're the master of your voyage. 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. Consider booking your trip well in advance to avoid the holiday rush.
Your ride includes complimentary refreshments and snacks. You'll be greeted by a professionally dressed driver, holding a sign with your name or a designated identifier, ensuring you can spot them easily in a crowded area. That's why they've equipped their luxury fleet with advanced safety features designed to provide peace of mind throughout your journey.

Luxury Travel Service

  1. Executive Limo
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  3. Luxury Car Hire
  4. Private Chauffeur
  5. Airport Limo
  6. Luxury Airport Shuttle
  7. Limousine Rental
  8. Private Airport Transfer
  9. Executive Limo
  10. Corporate Car Service
  11. Luxury Car Hire
  12. Private Chauffeur
  13. Airport Limo
  14. Luxury Airport Shuttle
  15. Limousine Rental
  16. Private Airport Transfer
  17. Executive Limo
  18. Corporate Car Service
From the moment you arrive to the minute you depart, Banff Transport's expansive destination coverage guarantees that your travel within and around Vancouver is nothing short of exceptional.
Noise-minimizing features ensure a quiet ride, offering you a serene environment to enjoy the journey. Limousine Rental They're not just about getting you from point A to B; they're about ensuring you arrive precisely when you need to. No matter your choice, Banff's transport options are designed to enhance your travel experience, blending luxury, convenience, and adventure into one unforgettable trip. It's not just travel; it's an experience tailored just for you, making every moment count.
Hear what our satisfied customers have to say about their luxurious rides to cruise terminals and ferry ports. You'll find that our luxury private transportation service spans major cruise terminals and ferry ports across the globe, ensuring you're covered wherever your travels may take you. You'll immediately notice the difference when you're greeted by a professional chauffeur, ready to cater to your every need. You'll have the option to choose from sleek sedans for intimate trips, spacious SUVs for family adventures, or luxurious limousines for that extra touch of elegance and comfort.

Explore High-End Black Car Service Vancouver here
Business Class Transportation Vancouver

 

A chauffeur in Japan standing next to a Nissan Fuga

A chauffeur ( French pronunciation: [ʃɔ.fœʁ]) is a person employed to drive passenger motor vehicle, especially a luxury vehicle such as a large sedan, SUV or a limousine.

Initially, such drivers were often personal employees of the vehicle owner, but this has changed to specialist chauffeur service companies or individual drivers that provide both driver and vehicle for hire. Some service companies merely offer the driver.

History

[edit]
A chauffeur in Glasgow during World War I

The term chauffeur comes from the dominance of French motor manufacturers in the 1890s and their use of Daimler engines with hot tube ignitors. These required heating (chauffer) with a Bunsen burner before the engine would work. This delicate procedure and the maintenance of the platinum tubes was the work of a chauffeur who also maintained and could drive the car.[1][2] From 1900, magneto ignition took over, but as cars got faster, pneumatic tyres became essential and were subject to punctures.[3] The role of chauffeur evolved into that of driver, mechanic and maker of running repairs.

Only the wealthy could afford the first cars. In the 1890s, cars were open, often had a single bench seat and were driven by their owners. From 1900 they became practical transport and owners employed chauffeurs rather than driving themselves. A 1906 article in The New York Times reported that "the chauffeur problem to-day is one of the most serious that the automobilist has to deal with", and complained that "young men of no particular ability, who have been earning from $10 to $12 a week, are suddenly elevated to salaried positions paying from $25 to $50" and recommended the re-training of existing coach drivers.[4]

Scope

[edit]

While the term may refer to anybody who drives for a living, it usually implies a driver of an elegant passenger vehicle such as a horse-drawn carriage, luxury sedan, motor coach, or especially a limousine; those who operate buses or non-passenger vehicles are generally referred to as "drivers". In some countries, particularly developing nations where a ready supply of labor ensures that even the middle classes can afford domestic staff and among the wealthy,[5] the chauffeur may simply be called the "driver".

Some people may employ chauffeurs full-time to drive them in their vehicles, while professional services offer on-request limousines or rental cars that include chauffeurs.[6] This is similar to but much more luxurious than taking a taxicab. A variety of benefits are cited for using chauffeurs, including convenience, productivity, and time savings,[7] and driving safety for business people[8] and seniors.[9] Insurance costs for luxury vehicles are often lower if the designated driver is a chauffeur.[5]

The legal requirements for being a chauffeur vary depending on the local jurisdiction and class of vehicle. In some cases, a simple permit is required. Still, in others, an additional professional license with specific minimum standards in areas such as age, health, driving experience, criminal record, local geographic knowledge, or training is needed.[10][11]

Training

[edit]
The first examination of chauffeurs under a new law, New York, 1910

In addition to the minimum legal requirements, limousine companies often require their chauffeurs to undergo specific extra training.[12][13] These courses may involve evasive driving or defensive driving techniques, the proper methods to ensure safety in the most extreme conditions, such as inclement weather, a flat tire at high speeds, or other exterior influences for loss of vehicular control, etc.[14]

Many companies also have courses on what they expect from their chauffeurs. Chauffeurs may be taught proper etiquette when they are in the presence of their clientele. They may also be trained for services to the client beyond the car itself, such as for a personal valet or bodyguard.[15]

Many companies and local licensing agencies require random drug screening for chauffeurs.[16] There have been increased requirements for compliance in drug and alcohol testing in the United States.[17] The problem was highlighted after professional ice hockey player Vladimir Konstantinov's career-ending injuries when his recently hired chauffeur, Richard Gnida, lost control of their limousine and crashed.[18][19] Another concern are company drug and alcohol policies for chauffeurs in those states where marijuana is legal because of the potential impact and impairment to perform their job safely and effectively.[20]

Notable chauffeurs

[edit]

In fiction

[edit]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ Johnson, Erik (1986). The Dawn of Motoring. Milton Keynes: Mercedes-Benz (UK ) Ltd. pp. 28–29. ISBN 0951062506.
  2. ^ Hutton, J.Ernest (1902). Harmsworth, Alfred (ed.). Motors and Motor-Driving (2nd ed.). London: Longmans, Green & Co. pp. 138–142.
  3. ^ Freeston, C.L. (1902). Harmsworth, Alfred (ed.). Motors and Motor Driving (2nd ed.). London: Longmans, Green & Co. pp. 224–237.
  4. ^ "Chauffeurs Lord It Over Their Employers; Big Salaries Turn the Heads of Automobile Drivers. They Scorn Menial Work Garage Managers Also Have Trouble with Them -- A Better Class Being Turned Out by the Schools". The New York Times. 12 August 1906. p. 16. Retrieved 12 December 2016.
  5. ^ a b Sanger, David E. (23 September 2010). "Once Around the Block, James, and Pick Me Up After My Nap". The New York Times. p. 7. Retrieved 31 October 2010.
  6. ^ Stern, Linda (1 October 2007). "Hey, Look, Boss: No Hands!". Newsweek. Archived from the original on 14 September 2009. Retrieved 14 November 2009.
  7. ^ Villano, Matt (17 September 2007). "A Chauffeur Role That Tries Harder". The New York Times. Retrieved 14 November 2009.
  8. ^ "Driven To Distraction: Mobile Office Gone Too Far?". NBC5. Chicago. 24 September 2007. Archived from the original on 15 October 2007. Retrieved 31 January 2021.
  9. ^ "Too Old To Drive?". The Rachael Ray Show. MMVII KWP Studios. 10 October 2007. Archived from the original on 11 January 2008. Retrieved 14 November 2009.
  10. ^ "Licensing". Transport for London. Mayor of London. Retrieved 17 February 2025.
  11. ^ "FAQ". NYC Taxi and Limousine Commission. Archived from the original on 28 May 2010. Retrieved 25 November 2018.
  12. ^ Blain, James (15 May 2024). "Creating the Ideal Chauffeur Training Plan". chauffeurdriven.com. Retrieved 17 February 2025.[dead link]
  13. ^ "Benchmark & Best Practices – Chauffeur Training". chauffeurdriven.com. 8 March 2016. Retrieved 17 February 2025.[dead link]
  14. ^ "Chauffeur & VIP Close Protection Driver Course Review". thechauffeur.com. 8 April 2016. Retrieved 17 February 2025.
  15. ^ Elliott, Hannah (24 November 2024). "What I learnt about luxury at the Rolls-Royce school for chauffeurs". indiatimes.com. Bloomberg. Retrieved 17 February 2025.
  16. ^ "Benchmark & Best Practices – Drug Testing". chauffeurdriven.com. 8 November 2015. Retrieved 17 February 2025.
  17. ^ "Update Required: New Regulations for Drug and Alcohol Testing". chauffeurdriven.com. 30 March 2020. Archived from the original on 3 February 2023. Retrieved 17 February 2025.
  18. ^ Windsor, Shawn (6 October 2007). "2007's Top Wings Stories: Remembering the crash that ruined Stanley Cup celebration". Freep.com. Gannett. Archived from the original on 7 June 2011. Thirty-two laws took effect in 1999 amid mounting evidence that thousands of people with suspended or revoked licenses were driving, despite numerous alcohol-related convictions and serious traffic violations.
  19. ^ "Ex-Wings Limo Driver Arrested". CBS News. Associated Press. 2 July 1999. Retrieved 19 September 2008.
  20. ^ Holden, Tom (15 July 2024). "You Probably Need to Update Your Company's Drug and Alcohol Policy". chauffeurdriven.com. Archived from the original on 13 August 2024. Retrieved 17 February 2025.
  21. ^ Kempka, Erich (2010). I Was Hitler's Chauffeur - The Memoir of Erich Kempka. Pen & Sword Books. ISBN 9781781599723.
  22. ^ Thomas Jr., Robert McG. (25 May 1995). "Roosevelt S. Zanders, Stars' Chauffeur, Dies at 81". The New York Times. p. 8. Retrieved 25 November 2018.
  23. ^ Palm, Matthew J. (21 January 2021). "In 'Daisy,' Michael Morman's in the driver's seat again". Orlando Sentinel. Retrieved 31 January 2021.
  24. ^ Bauer, Patricia (17 December 2017). "Driving Miss Daisy: Plot, Cast, Awards, & Facts". Encyclopedia Britannica. Retrieved 31 January 2021.
[edit]
  • Media related to Chauffeurs at Wikimedia Commons

 

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

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

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

Etymology

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

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

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

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

History

[edit]

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

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

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

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

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

Characteristics

[edit]

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

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

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

Stretch limousines

[edit]
Lincoln Town Car stretch limousine

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

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

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

Novelty limousines

[edit]

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

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

[edit]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ Garner, Bryan (July 28, 2009). Garner's Modern American Usage. Oxford University Press. ISBN 9780199874620. Archived from the original on July 7, 2023. Retrieved August 2, 2020.
  2. ^ a b "Definition of limousine". merriam-webster.com. October 28, 2019. Archived from the original on September 20, 2019. Retrieved November 6, 2019.
  3. ^ "Definition of Stretch Limo". merriam-webster.com. Archived from the original on July 2, 2020. Retrieved November 6, 2019.
  4. ^ a b Dyke, Andrew Lee (1920). Dyke's Automobile and Gasoline Engine Encyclopedia (Twelfth ed.). p. 582. Archived from the original on July 7, 2023. Retrieved June 27, 2015.
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  6. ^ a b The Random House College Dictionary. Random House. 1975. p. 777. ISBN 0-394-43600-8. 1. an automobile having a permanently enclosed compartment for from three to five persons, the roof of which projects forward over the driver's seat in front...[< F, special use of limousine long cloak, so called because worn by the shepherds of Limousin, a former province in central France]
  7. ^ "Definition of limousine" (Complete & Unabridged Digital ed.). Collins English Dictionary. 2012. Archived from the original on April 17, 2019. Retrieved November 6, 2019.
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  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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