Charter Coach Vancouver

Charter Coach Vancouver

Motor coach rental

You're not tied to a rigid schedule. Specify your travel dates, number of passengers, and any specific requirements or preferences you have. So, next time you're planning a group trip, remember that with Star Coach, you're not just traveling smart; you're also contributing to a healthier planet. With Star Coach, you'll access a diverse fleet that caters to any group size and a personalized approach ensuring your journey is exactly how you envision it. They're clean, spacious, and, most importantly, ensure that your journey is uninterrupted. Learn more about Charter Coach Vancouver here
Understanding the value of your money, Star Coach offers competitive pricing options designed to fit a variety of budgets without compromising on luxury or safety. Whether you're planning a corporate retreat, a wedding, or a sightseeing tour, they've got you covered. When you choose to travel with these luxury buses, you're opting for a mode of transportation that maximizes passenger capacity without sacrificing the environment. This is where Star Coach steps in, redefining bus rental in the city with its luxury Prevost H3-45 coaches.
They're not just about getting you from point A to point B; they're about making the journey as enjoyable as the destination.

Greater Vancouver

  • Bus hire
  • Vancouver region
  • Travel coach
  • Transport charter
  • Bus leasing
  • British Columbia
  • Bus transportation
  • Coach hire
  • Team travel
  • Downtown bus rental
  • Bus provider
  • Casino shuttle
  • Private group transport
  • Bus charter
  • Charter transportation
  • Airport transfer
  • Crew shuttle
  • Bus for hire
  • Vancouver city
  • Luxury transportation
Star Coach Bus Rentals empower you to tailor your Vancouver journey, ensuring each destination on your itinerary aligns perfectly with your group's preferences and interests. That's why they've built a reputation for being on time, every time. Our fleet includes everything from cozy minibuses perfect for smaller groups to full-sized luxury coaches that can accommodate larger parties with ease.
Consistently, clients rave about their experiences with Star Coach, highlighting the company's commitment to service excellence. The plush seating is more than just a place to sit-it's your ticket to relaxation, with reclining features and ample legroom. Learn more about Star Coach here. Our commitment to exceptional customer service sets us apart, ensuring your satisfaction from the moment you book with us. You've likely heard the buzz about reducing carbon footprints, and this company is leading the charge in the transportation sector.

It's all part of how we make your travel experience not just a journey, but a pleasure. You're not just choosing a premium travel option; you're supporting a company that's serious about protecting the environment. Star Coach also offers flexible payment plans, making it easier to manage your budget. Stick with us to uncover the layers of excellence that have clients singing their praises and why exploring Vancouver with Star Coach might just be the upgrade your travel plans need.

Imagine not having to fret over logistics for your next big conference or the transportation plan for your wedding guests. But safety isn't the only priority; your comfort is equally paramount.

Field trip bus

  • Bus hire
  • Vancouver region
  • Travel coach
  • Transport charter
  • Bus leasing
  • British Columbia
  • Bus transportation
  • Coach hire
  • Team travel
  • Downtown bus rental
  • Bus provider
  • Casino shuttle
  • Private group transport
  • Bus charter
  • Charter transportation
  • Airport transfer
  • Crew shuttle
It's not just a ride; it's your gateway to discovering the very soul of Vancouver, making every moment aboard as memorable as the destinations themselves.

You won't need designated drivers, and the party starts the moment you board. Lastly, the Prevost H3-45's advanced braking system, including ABS and disc brakes, ensures you've got reliable stopping power at your fingertips, reducing the chances of accidents. Star Coach hasn't just focused on comfort; they've also prioritized safety.

Hourly bus rental

  • Transport charter
  • Bus leasing
  • British Columbia
  • Bus transportation
  • Coach hire
  • Team travel
  • Downtown bus rental
  • Bus provider
  • Casino shuttle
  • Private group transport
  • Bus charter
  • Charter transportation
  • Airport transfer
  • Crew shuttle
  • Bus for hire
  • Vancouver city
  • Luxury transportation
  • Bus travel
  • Charter shuttle service


Your Vancouver experience is enhanced not only by the destinations but by the journey itself. From the plush seating that whispers comfort to the entertainment features that keep the boredom at bay, there's a lot to discuss about how these buses are redefining travel norms. This isn't by accident.

Field trip bus

Deluxe Bus Rental 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

Chauffeured Bus Rental Vancouver

You won't have to worry about fitting everyone in one vehicle or making multiple trips. Star Coach's luxury fleet stands out in Vancouver, offering you unparalleled comfort and style for your travels. Rest assured, when you're on board, you're in good hands. Whether it's a corporate event, a wedding, or a scenic tour around Vancouver, their fleet stands ready to elevate your group travel to a level of luxury that's hard to find elsewhere. You'll find that each bus in their fleet boasts a sleek, modern design both inside and out.

Real-time tracking allows you to keep an eye on your route, and flexible scheduling means last-minute changes won't disrupt your plans. If you're organizing a tour, our buses ensure that everyone enjoys the journey as much as the destination, with amenities that make long trips feel short and sweet. Personal charging stations ensure your devices are always powered up, so you never miss out. With them, you're not just booking a ride; you're crafting a personalized adventure.

Consider it done. First, the Prevost H3-45 boasts an Electronic Stability Program (ESP), significantly reducing the risk of skidding or loss of control in slippery conditions. You've got the freedom to design your itinerary, from the iconic Stanley Park to the historic Gastown, without worrying about schedules or stops. Understanding your unique travel needs, Star Coach offers customized travel experiences to ensure your journey is exactly how you envision it.

Whether you're planning a corporate event, a family reunion, or a luxurious getaway with friends, we've got you covered. Want Wi-Fi connectivity, onboard entertainment, or refreshments? Tour bus rental However, Star Coach differentiates itself through a blend of unmatched luxury fleet options, tailored travel experiences, and exceptional customer service that genuinely stands apart. Vancouver area In short, they've set a new standard for bus travel, where you don't just reach your destination, you do so feeling refreshed and relaxed.

Chauffeured Bus Rental Vancouver
Luxury Group Bus Charter Vancouver

Luxury Group Bus Charter Vancouver

Our flexible payment options make booking with us a breeze. Regular inspections and servicing by our team of expert technicians mean you'll never have to worry about safety or reliability. But beyond the obvious perks, there's an underlying story of sustainability and customer satisfaction that might just pique your interest. Every bus in their fleet is equipped with the latest safety features, including advanced braking systems and real-time GPS tracking, so you can relax knowing you're in good hands. Star Coach's elite bus rental service in Vancouver offers you just that.

So, when it comes to transporting your most valuable asset – your people – you know you're in good hands. That's why they offer customizable packages to fit your specific event requirements. 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. To simplify your planning, our advanced booking process is designed to be seamless and efficient, ensuring you get your ideal travel experience without hassle.

You don't want to get bogged down in endless forms or confusing steps. This feature is invaluable on long journeys when driver fatigue can set in. It's evident in the glowing reviews and repeat clients. 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.

For those looking to explore Vancouver's stunning landscapes and vibrant city scenes, Star Coach's guided sightseeing tours offer an immersive experience like no other.

Bus hire

  1. Bus for hire
  2. Vancouver city
  3. Luxury transportation
  4. Bus travel
  5. Charter shuttle service
  6. Vancouver
  7. Group transportation
  8. Safe bus rental
  9. Affordable bus rental
  10. Minibus rental
  11. Event transportation
  12. Luxury bus rental
  13. Bus line
  14. Shuttle service
  15. School bus rental
Their vehicles are state-of-the-art, and their drivers are professionals who prioritize your safety above all. These coaches offer an environment conducive to both relaxation and productivity.

Lower Mainland BC

  • Private group transport
  • Bus charter
  • Charter transportation
  • Airport transfer
  • Crew shuttle
  • Bus for hire
  • Vancouver city
  • Luxury transportation
  • Bus travel
  • Charter shuttle service
  • Vancouver
  • Group transportation
  • Safe bus rental
  • Affordable bus rental
  • Minibus rental
  • Event transportation
  • Luxury bus rental
Greater Vancouver Whether you're planning a corporate event, a wedding, or a scenic tour, we've got a pricing plan that'll suit your needs. Event shuttles

Upscale Private Coach Service Vancouver

There's no doubt you'll feel a sense of pride when you step aboard, knowing you're experiencing one of the finest modes of travel available. This peace of mind is irreplaceable, knowing you're in capable hands. Hourly bus rental Star Coach in Vancouver is putting this theory to the test, offering five-star bus rental experiences that aim to transform group travel into an unforgettable journey of comfort, luxury, and personalized exploration. From seamless booking processes to comprehensive safety measures and exceptional customer service, every aspect of your journey is meticulously planned and executed.

When you choose them for your transportation needs, you're opting for more than just a ride; you're selecting a premium journey tailored to your specific desires. The climate control ensures the environment inside is always just how you like it, making your travel experience pleasant throughout the year. You can reach out via phone or email, and we'll assist you in tailoring your reservation to meet your specific needs.

You're not just renting a bus; you're investing in an experience that's tailored to meet the highest expectations. You'll find each seat spacious enough to stretch out, recline, and unwind, without bumping elbows with your neighbor. They've also encouraged digital ticketing and communication, reducing the need for paper and contributing to forest conservation efforts.

With competitive pricing and a commitment to eco-friendly transportation, they cater to a wide array of events, solidifying their stellar reputation in the industry.

Upscale Private Coach Service Vancouver
Premium Private Coach Service Vancouver
Premium Private Coach Service Vancouver

It's all about making sure your travel is as seamless and enjoyable as possible. If you prefer a more personal touch, their customer service team is just a phone call away, ready to assist you in customizing your trip to perfection. Moreover, these luxury coaches offer a seamless blend of convenience and style. They're quick to respond, providing clear, concise information to help you make the best decision for your group.

School bus rental

  • Field trip bus
  • Bus excursion
  • Charter vehicle
  • Vancouver area
  • Lower Mainland BC
  • Bus hire
  • Vancouver region
  • Travel coach
  • Transport charter
  • Bus leasing
  • British Columbia
  • Bus transportation
  • Coach hire
  • Team travel
  • Downtown bus rental
  • Bus provider
  • Casino shuttle
They're there to answer your questions, assist with your luggage, and accommodate your travel needs to the best of their abilities.

Field trip bus

  • Travel coach
  • Transport charter
  • Bus leasing
  • British Columbia
  • Bus transportation
  • Coach hire
  • Team travel
  • Downtown bus rental
  • Bus provider
  • Casino shuttle
  • Private group transport
  • Bus charter
  • Charter transportation
  • Airport transfer
  • Crew shuttle
  • Bus for hire
  • Vancouver city
  • Luxury transportation

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. You're not just booking a bus; you're securing peace of mind that your schedule is as important to them as it's to you. In Vancouver's competitive bus rental market, Star Coach's fleet quality truly is unmatched. This flexibility allows you to select the perfect vehicle to match the vibe and scale of your occasion, guaranteeing that your transport is as memorable as the event itself.
Choosing Star Coach means you're not just getting a ride; you're getting an experience. They're committed to maintaining the highest safety standards, keeping you safe and secure, no matter the destination. Wrapping up, these testimonials paint a vivid picture of why choosing Star Coach is more than just hiring a bus service-it's about ensuring a comfortable, safe, and enjoyable journey for everyone involved. Party bus Read more about Charter Coach Vancouver here This shift drastically cuts down on carbon emissions, making your journey greener.
We've also integrated the latest technology for your entertainment and connectivity. Picture this: soft, reclining leather seats that let you sink into comfort as you gaze out through panoramic windows. With Star Coach, you'll enjoy the luxury of first-class travel without the hefty price tag. You've likely heard the theory that luxury travel is inaccessible to the average group outing, but Star Coach's executive fleet in Vancouver is challenging this notion head-on.



Lower Mainland BC

  1. Bus transportation
  2. Coach hire
  3. Team travel
  4. Downtown bus rental
  5. Bus provider
  6. Casino shuttle
  7. Private group transport
  8. Bus charter
  9. Charter transportation
  10. Airport transfer
  11. Crew shuttle
  12. Bus for hire
  13. Vancouver city
  14. Luxury transportation
  15. Bus travel
  16. Charter shuttle service
  17. Vancouver
  18. Group transportation
  19. Safe bus rental
Chauffeured Corporate Coach Vancouver

Fancy a mobile conference room equipped with high-speed Wi-Fi and leather seating for your business meetings on the go? It's not just about arriving at your destination but doing so when you expect to, without any unpleasant surprises. You're riding in a coach equipped with cutting-edge safety technologies designed to protect you on every mile of your trip. Our experienced drivers and staff are attentive to your needs, ready to adjust routes for scenic detours or to accommodate last-minute changes. From the moment you make your booking until you reach your destination, you'll feel valued and pampered.
Understanding that every group's needs are different, Star Coach Bus Rentals offers tailored travel solutions to fit your specific itinerary and preferences. Imagine arriving at your destination in style, comfort, and without the hassle of coordinating multiple cars or worrying about parking. Bus hire They've invested in a fleet of buses that meet the highest environmental standards, ensuring that your journey leaves a minimal carbon footprint. Star Coach isn't just about transporting you from point A to point B; it's about ensuring your journey is as memorable as the destination itself.
Moreover, the attention to detail in the amenities provided ensures that your journey is as enjoyable as the destination itself.

Hourly bus rental

  1. Airport transfer
  2. Crew shuttle
  3. Bus for hire
  4. Vancouver city
  5. Luxury transportation
  6. Bus travel
  7. Charter shuttle service
  8. Vancouver
  9. Group transportation
  10. Safe bus rental
  11. Affordable bus rental
  12. Minibus rental
  13. Event transportation
  14. Luxury bus rental
  15. Bus line
  16. Charter vehicle
  17. Vancouver area
  18. Lower Mainland BC
  19. Bus hire
  20. Vancouver region
Star Coach's approach to safety is proactive, not reactive. But the question remains: does this upscale approach to group transport genuinely enhance the overall appeal of Vancouver as a travel destination? Star Coach elevates your travel experience by offering customized luxury experiences tailored to your specific needs and desires. Motor coach rental
They're not just talking about the comfort and style of the buses, but also the positive feeling of minimizing their carbon footprint while exploring the city. And for those moments when you need a bit of quiet, noise-canceling headphones are available upon request, ensuring you can lose yourself in a movie or playlist without distractions. When you're planning a corporate event, you don't just need transportation; you need a partner who understands the importance of punctuality, reliability, and presentation. It's all within reach, without the hassle of parking or navigating unfamiliar roads.

Explore Charter Coach Vancouver here
Chauffeured Corporate Coach Vancouver
1908 Studebaker limousine with an open driver's compartment
1953 Rolls-Royce Phantom IV (coachwork by Hooper)

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

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

Etymology

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

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

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

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

History

[edit]

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

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

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

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

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

Characteristics

[edit]

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

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

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

Stretch limousines

[edit]
Lincoln Town Car stretch limousine

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

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

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

Novelty limousines

[edit]

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

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

[edit]

See also

[edit]

References

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

 

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

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

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

Etymology

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

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

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

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

History

[edit]

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

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

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

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

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

Characteristics

[edit]

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

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

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

Stretch limousines

[edit]
Lincoln Town Car stretch limousine

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

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

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

Novelty limousines

[edit]

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

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

[edit]

See also

[edit]

References

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

 

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