Hourly Private Car Service Vancouver

Hourly Private Car Service Vancouver

Luxury Travel Concierge

It's this commitment to fleet excellence that sets them apart, making every trip with them a truly exceptional experience. Luxury Sedan Service Choose Banff Transport's Luxury Private Transportation Service Vancouver for a travel experience tailored precisely to your dreams. You won't have to worry about navigating traffic or finding parking. As you set off, the bustling cityscapes of Vancouver gradually give way to the serene beauty of the British Columbia countryside. Read more about Hourly Private Car Service Vancouver here Learn more about Hourly Private Car Service Vancouver here To simplify your travel arrangements, the booking process for luxury private transportation is straightforward and user-friendly.
Whether you're heading to the airport, a business meeting, or a scenic tour, Banff Transport's downtown pickup points simplify your travel. And for your peace of mind, there's always a professional attendant on board, ready to assist with any needs, ensuring your journey isn't just luxurious, but also smooth and hassle-free from start to finish. This flexibility ensures that whether you're looking for a simple airport transfer or a more elaborate travel arrangement, you'll get the best value for your money. Banff Transport has taken care to ensure that from start to finish, booking your luxury transportation is as enjoyable as the ride itself.

Private Limo

  1. Luxury Car Service
  2. Luxury Van Service
  3. Luxury Limousine Rental
  4. Private Executive Car
  5. Corporate Car Service
  6. Executive Limo
  7. Private Event Transportation
  8. Luxury Wedding Transport
  9. Luxury Transportation Company
  10. Luxury Night Out Transport
  11. Business Executive Shuttle
  12. Luxury Airport Pickup
  13. Luxury Group Transportation
  14. High-End Chauffeur
  15. Private SUV Transportation
  16. Corporate Shuttle
  17. Luxury Car Service
  18. Luxury Van Service
  19. Luxury Limousine Rental

With every mile tailored to your taste, exploring Vancouver and its majestic surroundings becomes not just travel, but a celebration of your preferences, at your pace, on your terms. Following the seamless booking process, your safety and privacy take center stage with Banff Transport's stringent standards. Banff Transport isn't just offering you a ride; they're crafting an experience where every detail is meticulously tailored to your taste. Whether you're craving serenity at secluded spots or seeking adrenaline-pumping activities, they've got you covered.
Crossing into Alberta, the landscape unfolds into the vast expanse of the Canadian Rockies. Imagine gliding along the Sea to Sky Highway, where each turn unveils panoramic vistas that seem painted by the hand of nature itself. One family recounted how the spacious vehicle made their long ride comfortably enjoyable, with amenities that kept both parents and children happy. They're not just drivers; they're your personal concierges, ready to adjust the route for scenic views or recommend a hidden gem for dining along the way.

Learn more about Banff Transport here.

Our fleet is versatile, catering to different tastes and requirements, whether you prefer the understated elegance of a luxury sedan or the plush comfort of a stretch limousine. They're equipped with masks and gloves, minimizing any risk of transmission while maintaining a professional and courteous demeanor. Expect your arrival in Banff to be seamless, leaving you more time to indulge in the experiences this picturesque town offers. Then, there's the convenience of shuttle services. You'll ride with peace of mind, knowing that every precaution is taken to maintain your security and comfort.

Choosing this service means you're not just getting from point A to point B; you're ensuring that your journey is as enjoyable and stress-free as the destination itself. Not just drivers, but professionals who are discreet, knowledgeable, and dedicated to making your experience memorable. Banff Transport also offers excursions to Whistler, Victoria, and even across the border to Seattle. It's all about their competitive pricing strategy, designed to offer you luxury without the hefty price tag.

From ensuring your safety and privacy to providing bespoke solutions for your event transportation needs, Banff Transport stands out as a harbinger of luxury travel's future. You're not just booking a ride; you're securing a gateway to unmatched comfort, elegance, and the freedom to explore Vancouver in unparalleled style. Private Limo Instead, everything's set up for your convenience, allowing you to book your ride in just a few clicks. You'll bypass the crowds and the stress of navigating on your own, focusing instead on the breathtaking views and vibrant culture that define this coastal city.

Private Limo

  1. Private Executive Car
  2. Corporate Car Service
  3. Executive Limo
  4. Private Event Transportation
  5. Luxury Wedding Transport
  6. Luxury Transportation Company
  7. Luxury Night Out Transport
  8. Business Executive Shuttle
  9. Luxury Airport Pickup
  10. Luxury Group Transportation
  11. High-End Chauffeur
  12. Private SUV Transportation
  13. Corporate Shuttle
  14. Luxury Car Service
  15. Luxury Limousine Rental
  16. Private Executive Car
  17. Corporate Car Service
  18. Executive Limo
  19. Private Event Transportation


Moreover, we're committed to your security from start to finish. Whether you're planning a romantic getaway, a corporate event, or a family vacation, there's a vehicle in our fleet that's just right for you. Vehicles are meticulously maintained and serviced regularly, adhering to the highest standards of safety. For larger groups, luxury vans offer spaciousness without compromising on style or comfort.

Citations and other links

Vancouver Cruise Terminal Private Transfer

Dive into a journey uniquely yours with our tailored itineraries, designed to match your personal interests and schedule. You're not just choosing a greener way to travel; you're also contributing to the preservation of the breathtaking landscapes between Vancouver and the Sea to Sky corridor. You're given the flexibility to schedule pickups and drop-offs according to your itinerary, not the other way around. Imagine selecting a vehicle that not just fits, but exceeds your expectations for comfort and style.

It's the perfect blend of luxury and convenience, tailored to make your journey as enjoyable as possible. Moreover, your safety and privacy are paramount. They're on it.

This journey isn't just about moving from point A to B; it's about how you feel during the transit. While the luxury of Banff Transport's vehicles sets a high bar, it's the professionalism and expertise of their chauffeurs that truly complete your premium travel experience. First off, their luxury SUVs are perfect for smaller groups or families, providing both elegance and functionality.

Customers often mention the comfort and luxury of the vehicles, making their rides not just a means to an end but a memorable part of their trip. You're getting a service that's not only reliable and comfortable but also mindful of its ecological responsibilities. You're not just paying for a ride; you're investing in a worry-free journey. Corporate Executive Transport

Vancouver Cruise Terminal Private Transfer
Private Chauffeured Transportation Vancouver

Private Chauffeured Transportation Vancouver

This seamless transition is a hallmark of luxury transport, eliminating any wait times or confusion often associated with public transport or standard taxi services. You won't have to worry about reliability; these cars are ready to take you through the breathtaking landscapes without a hitch. They understand that each event is unique, and their fleet of luxury vehicles ensures you'll find the perfect match for your style and requirements. Moreover, Banff Transport encourages digital bookings and communications, cutting down on paper waste and contributing to their green initiative. You can even adjust your itinerary on the fly, adding stops along the scenic route to Banff to capture those breathtaking views or explore hidden gems.

It's not just about getting from A to B; it's about how you feel during the journey. There's no waiting around or rushing to meet predetermined departure times. Imagine sipping on a cold beverage or enjoying a gourmet treat as you gaze out at the breathtaking views. Choosing Banff Transport means you're not just getting a ride; you're ensuring that your health and safety are taken seriously, with every detail meticulously planned to provide you with a worry-free experience.

Booking with us means you're prioritizing your time, comfort, and peace of mind. These views aren't merely a backdrop; they're an integral part of your travel story. Upon reaching Banff, you'll be greeted by its stunning mountain vistas and quaint town charm, setting the stage for an unforgettable adventure. Banff Transport addresses this by scaling their services and adjusting prices accordingly.

While it's tempting to pack as much as possible into each day, remember that the beauty of a private transport service is the flexibility it offers. This includes optimizing routes to decrease fuel consumption and investing in carbon offset programs that support renewable energy projects. Private Executive Car Luxury Limousine Luxury SUV Rental This transparency ensures there are no surprises, allowing you to plan your budget effectively and enjoy your trip to the fullest. Whether you're eager to hit the hiking trails, explore the turquoise waters of Lake Louise, or simply soak in the natural beauty, you're in the right place.

Corporate Car Service Vancouver

Each vehicle in our fleet is meticulously maintained and equipped with the latest amenities to ensure your ride is nothing short of exceptional. Our guests were impressed by the comfort and style of the transportation. Picture settling into plush, leather seats that contour to your body, making every mile more comfortable than the last. One traveler shares, 'It was like having a personal concierge for the road.

You'll experience unparalleled comfort from the moment you're picked up until you reach your destination. That's what Mark, a frequent business traveler, raves about. To cater specifically to your family's unique needs, Banff Transport offers a variety of customizable family packages.

When you choose our service, you're opting for a seamless, luxurious journey from the moment you land to the second you reach your destination. Banff Transport simplifies your booking process, ensuring you can easily schedule your luxury airport transfer with just a few clicks.

Corporate Executive Transport

  1. Luxury Travel Concierge
  2. Corporate Executive Transport
  3. Luxury Car Hire
  4. Airport Limo
  5. Luxury Sedan Service
  6. Private Limo
  7. Luxury SUV Rental
  8. Luxury Limousine
  9. VIP Transportation
  10. Luxury Ride Share
  11. Limousine Rental
  12. Luxury Van Service
  13. Luxury Limousine Rental
  14. Private Executive Car
  15. Corporate Car Service
  16. Executive Limo
  17. Private Event Transportation
It's their way of saying thank you for choosing them as your travel partner.

That's why they offer customizable travel itineraries. Embarking on your journey through the scenic Sea to Sky corridor, you'll find unparalleled comfort and privacy with Vancouver's premier luxury private transportation service. Here, you can specify your pick-up and drop-off locations, select your preferred luxury vehicle, and choose the date and time that best fits your schedule.

Corporate Car Service Vancouver
Mercedes Sprinter Chauffeur Vancouver
Mercedes Sprinter Chauffeur Vancouver

You can choose from a range of vehicles that ensure comfort for the whole family, from luxury sedans for smaller groups to spacious SUVs and vans for larger parties. When you opt for a luxury private transportation service, you're not just buying a ride; you're crafting an experience tailored to your preferences and needs. Each chauffeur brings a wealth of knowledge about Vancouver's fastest routes, scenic spots, and hidden gems, turning a simple transfer into an immersive experience. To finalize your booking, you'll enter your payment information through their secure system. With Banff Transport, you're not just getting from point A to B; you're embarking on a curated adventure tailored just for you.

Simply visit their official website or use their dedicated mobile app, both designed with your convenience in mind. These moments can become some of the most memorable parts of your trip. They're also transparent about pricing, so you'll know exactly what you're paying for without any surprises. You've got the freedom to select the vehicle that best suits your style and needs, from luxury sedans for a more intimate setting to spacious SUVs for larger groups wanting to share the adventure together. Airport Limo

This broad coverage guarantees seamless connectivity from air to sea, making your journey as smooth and stress-free as possible. With our luxury private transportation service, you're not just getting a ride; you're creating a moment to remember. Larger groups aren't left out, thanks to the spacious and comfortable coaches in the fleet. Following the seamless booking process, your next concern is likely the safety and reliability of your journey from Vancouver to the Sea to Sky region.

Picture a serene moment at the base of a towering mountain or a quiet walk through a lush forest, moments crafted just for you. Safety isn't just a priority; it's a promise they deliver on every trip. VIP Transportation Banff Transport's luxury private transportation service offers a range of targeted luxury features designed to meet the specific desires and needs of families and groups. The route then guides you along the Coquihalla Highway, where the scenery shifts to rugged mountains and dense forests, offering glimpses of wildlife and nature's unspoiled splendor.

Luxury Car Service Canada Place

After booking your luxury ride, it's time to focus on how these moments will become unforgettable memories that last a lifetime.

VIP Transportation

  1. Limousine Rental
  2. Luxury Van Service
  3. Luxury Limousine Rental
  4. Private Executive Car
  5. Corporate Car Service
  6. Executive Limo
  7. Private Event Transportation
  8. Luxury Wedding Transport
  9. Luxury Transportation Company
  10. Luxury Night Out Transport
  11. Business Executive Shuttle
  12. Luxury Airport Pickup
  13. Luxury Group Transportation
  14. High-End Chauffeur
  15. Private SUV Transportation
  16. Corporate Shuttle
We understand that your preferences and requirements can vary widely. With luxury private transportation, you're not just booking a ride; you're investing in an experience. Throughout this journey, you're not just a passenger; you're a traveler on a voyage through the heart of Canada's wilderness.
When you opt for a luxury private transportation service in Vancouver, you're not just buying a ride; you're curating an experience tailored precisely to your desires and expectations. If you're unsure about your schedule or have special requests, Banff Transport's customer service is just a call or click away, ready to accommodate your needs with utmost flexibility. Moreover, the soundproofing technology ensures that the outside noise stays where it belongs-outside.
Your chauffeur isn't only a skilled driver but also a guardian of your peace of mind, allowing you to sit back, relax, and truly enjoy the breathtaking landscapes that unfold on your journey through Vancouver's most picturesque route.

Corporate Car Service

  1. Luxury Van Service
  2. Luxury Limousine Rental
  3. Private Executive Car
  4. Corporate Car Service
  5. Executive Limo
  6. Private Event Transportation
  7. Luxury Wedding Transport
  8. Luxury Transportation Company
  9. Luxury Night Out Transport
  10. Business Executive Shuttle
  11. Luxury Airport Pickup
  12. Luxury Group Transportation
  13. High-End Chauffeur
  14. Private SUV Transportation
  15. Corporate Shuttle
  16. Luxury Car Service
  17. Airport Limo
  18. Luxury Sedan Service
Whether you're here for the stunning scenery, exquisite dining, or both, Banff Transport elevates your experience, making every moment in Vancouver truly unforgettable.

Luxury Limousine

  1. Private SUV Transportation
  2. Corporate Shuttle
  3. Luxury Car Service
  4. Executive Limo
  5. Private Event Transportation
  6. Luxury Wedding Transport
  7. Luxury Transportation Company
  8. Luxury Night Out Transport
  9. Business Executive Shuttle
  10. Luxury Airport Pickup
  11. Luxury Group Transportation
  12. High-End Chauffeur
  13. Private SUV Transportation
  14. Corporate Shuttle
  15. Luxury Car Service
  16. Executive Limo
  17. Private Event Transportation
  18. Luxury Wedding Transport
Luxury Limousine Rental They're about creating an unforgettable experience from start to finish.
You can expect newer vehicles equipped with the latest amenities, ensuring that your journey isn't just about the destination but also about the luxury and comfort of the ride itself. Lastly, special requests and additional services like child seats, extra luggage space, or specific entertainment options are accommodated with clear, upfront costs. It was the highlight of our trip,' she says enthusiastically.

Explore Hourly Private Car Service Vancouver here
Luxury Car Service Canada Place
1908 Studebaker limousine with an open driver's compartment
1953 Rolls-Royce Phantom IV (coachwork by Hooper)

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

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

Etymology

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

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

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

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

History

[edit]

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

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

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

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

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

Characteristics

[edit]

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

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

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

Stretch limousines

[edit]
Lincoln Town Car stretch limousine

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

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

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

Novelty limousines

[edit]

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

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

[edit]

See also

[edit]

References

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

 

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

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

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

Etymology

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

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

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

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

History

[edit]

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

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

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

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

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

Characteristics

[edit]

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

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

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

Stretch limousines

[edit]
Lincoln Town Car stretch limousine

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

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

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

Novelty limousines

[edit]

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

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

[edit]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ Garner, Bryan (July 28, 2009). Garner's Modern American Usage. Oxford University Press. ISBN 9780199874620. Archived from the original on July 7, 2023. Retrieved August 2, 2020.
  2. ^ a b "Definition of limousine". merriam-webster.com. October 28, 2019. Archived from the original on September 20, 2019. Retrieved November 6, 2019.
  3. ^ "Definition of Stretch Limo". merriam-webster.com. Archived from the original on July 2, 2020. Retrieved November 6, 2019.
  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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