Vancouver VIP Bus Rental

Vancouver VIP Bus Rental

Luxury bus rental

You've likely heard the buzz about reducing carbon footprints, and this company is leading the charge in the transportation sector. Learn more about Vancouver VIP Bus Rental here Once you step aboard a Star Coach bus, you'll quickly discover the exceptional onboard services that set them apart. You're not just moving from point A to point B; you're indulging in a sophisticated journey, making every moment count. Looking for a bespoke travel plan?
You've likely heard their name mentioned among circles planning upscale events or corporate gatherings. You'll find the overhead compartments and underfloor storage areas surprisingly generous, allowing you to bring along everything you need without the usual hassle. This means you're not just renting a bus; you're securing peace of mind. Learn more about Charter Bus Rentals in Vancouver, BC here.
Their vehicles are meticulously maintained and serviced, ensuring safety alongside luxury. They've left no stone unturned in integrating comprehensive safety measures that exceed industry standards. Moreover, Star Coach's customer service is top-notch.
The onboard amenities, including clean and spacious restrooms, add an extra layer of convenience, ensuring your travel experience isn't just comfortable but thoroughly enjoyable. Free Wi-Fi, charging ports for your devices, and onboard entertainment systems mean you'll stay connected and entertained, no matter how long the road ahead. 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.



Bus rental for tours

  1. Bus rental for tours
  2. Mini coach rental
  3. Sightseeing bus
  4. Shuttle service
  5. Crew shuttle
  6. British Columbia
  7. Team travel
  8. Hourly bus rental
  9. Vancouver
  10. Bus fleet
  11. Coach hire
  12. Party bus
  13. Private group transport
  14. Motor coach rental
  15. Field trip bus
  16. Bus packages
  17. Bus rental for tours
  18. Mini coach rental
  19. Sightseeing bus

Here, you'll input your travel dates, pick-up and drop-off locations, and select your preferred bus model from our fleet of high-end vehicles. The aisles are wide, facilitating easy movement throughout the bus, whether you're accessing the onboard restroom or simply stretching your legs. Sightseeing bus Their attention to detail is unmatched, from the choice of onboard entertainment to the professionalism of their drivers. First, the Prevost H3-45 boasts an Electronic Stability Program (ESP), significantly reducing the risk of skidding or loss of control in slippery conditions. Everything's taken care of, allowing you to focus on the event's goals.
No problem. For your comfort, climate control is at your fingertips, allowing you to adjust the temperature to your liking. Their fleet of luxury buses ensures that your travel is as comfortable as it's memorable, with premium features that set the stage for an unparalleled experience. They've got you covered, providing solutions swiftly and with a smile.
It's the smart choice for businesses looking to streamline their travel arrangements while ensuring a pleasant and productive journey for everyone involved. Private bus 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.

Private bus rental

  • Shuttle service
  • Crew shuttle
  • British Columbia
  • Team travel
  • Hourly bus rental
  • Mini coach rental
  • Sightseeing bus
  • Shuttle service
  • Crew shuttle
  • British Columbia
  • Team travel
  • Hourly bus rental
  • Mini coach rental
  • Sightseeing bus
  • Shuttle service
  • Crew shuttle
  • British Columbia
  • Team travel
  • Hourly bus rental
  • Mini coach rental
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. Read more about Vancouver VIP Bus Rental here Star Coach prides itself on transparency, so you won't have to worry about hidden fees.
Rest assured, when you're on board, you're in good hands. They've got a modern, streamlined body that reflects the latest in automotive design trends.

Travel coach

  • Crew shuttle
  • British Columbia
  • Team travel
  • Hourly bus rental
  • Crew shuttle
  • British Columbia
  • Team travel
  • Hourly bus rental
  • Crew shuttle
  • British Columbia
  • Team travel
  • Hourly bus rental
  • Crew shuttle
  • British Columbia
  • Team travel
  • Hourly bus rental
  • Crew shuttle
  • British Columbia
  • Team travel
  • Hourly bus rental
You'll appreciate the clarity of information available on their platform. There are no hidden fees or surprise charges; what you see is what you get.

Luxury Coach Rentals Vancouver

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

Citations and other links

Chauffeured Bus Hire Vancouver

Star Coach's fleet of luxury buses redefines travel comfort, offering an unparalleled experience as you explore Vancouver. Instead, they tailor their rates based on the specifics of your trip, including distance, duration, and the type of bus you choose.

Coach hire

  • Bus packages
  • Bus rental for tours
  • Mini coach rental
  • Sightseeing bus
  • Shuttle service
  • Crew shuttle
  • British Columbia
  • Team travel
  • Hourly bus rental
  • Bus packages
  • Bus rental for tours
  • Mini coach rental
  • Sightseeing bus
  • Shuttle service
  • Crew shuttle
  • British Columbia
  • Team travel
  • Hourly bus rental
  • Bus packages
  • Bus rental for tours
That's why they've structured their pricing to be transparent and straightforward, allowing you to budget efficiently without any surprises. Star Coach also offers flexible payment plans, making it easier to manage your budget.

But what truly makes their approach revolutionary? Last-minute changes? Motor coach rental Moreover, our drivers aren't just skilled at navigating the busy streets of Vancouver; they're ambassadors of hospitality, trained to offer a service that goes beyond just driving.

You're not just renting a bus; you're crafting unforgettable memories with a touch of luxury.

Field trip bus

  • Mini coach rental
  • Sightseeing bus
  • Shuttle service
  • Crew shuttle
  • British Columbia
  • Team travel
  • Hourly bus rental
  • Vancouver city
  • Charter transportation
  • Vancouver
  • Bus fleet
  • Coach hire
  • Party bus
  • Private group transport
  • Motor coach rental
That's why they offer personalized attention from the moment you reach out.

Bus fleet

  1. Party bus
  2. Private group transport
  3. Motor coach rental
  4. Field trip bus
  5. Bus packages
  6. Bus rental for tours
  7. Mini coach rental
  8. Sightseeing bus
  9. Shuttle service
  10. Crew shuttle
  11. British Columbia
  12. Team travel
  13. Hourly bus rental
  14. Party bus
  15. Private group transport
  16. Motor coach rental
  17. Field trip bus
  18. Bus packages
Their commitment to customer satisfaction doesn't go unnoticed. Private group transport

You've likely noticed these sleek, modern coaches navigating the city's streets, but what you may not fully appreciate is the sheer breadth of bespoke services and exclusive amenities that set them apart. You won't have to worry about timing either; their expert coordinators work closely with you to plan every detail, from pick-up times to the best routes, ensuring punctuality and a smooth ride. Have you ever wondered what it's like to travel in unparalleled comfort and style, without the hassle of navigating through crowded airports or compromising on luxury?

Chauffeured Bus Hire Vancouver
Vancouver Corporate Bus Rental

Vancouver Corporate Bus Rental

Their professional drivers navigate the city with ease, ensuring you arrive at your destinations refreshed and ready to explore. Whether you're organizing a corporate event, a family reunion, or a school trip, there's a package that's right for you. We'll work closely with you to bring your vision to life, down to the finest detail. With onboard Wi-Fi, you can stay connected to the internet, ensuring you're not missing out on important emails or your social media feeds.

Beyond the comfort and amenities, you'll also appreciate Star Coach's commitment to punctuality and reliability, ensuring your travel plans stay on track. Each vehicle is equipped with top-notch amenities to ensure your trip is as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. Our maintenance team consists of certified professionals who specialize in keeping our buses in top condition.

Motor coach rental

  1. Mini coach rental
  2. Sightseeing bus
  3. Shuttle service
  4. Crew shuttle
  5. British Columbia
  6. Team travel
  7. Hourly bus rental
  8. Bus rental for tours
  9. Mini coach rental
  10. Sightseeing bus
  11. Shuttle service
  12. Crew shuttle
  13. British Columbia
  14. Team travel
  15. Hourly bus rental
  16. Bus rental for tours
  17. Mini coach rental
  18. Sightseeing bus


Imagine sipping on champagne, reclined in plush seating, while the city lights glide by. School trips become memorable adventures in safety and comfort, while nights out are elevated to new heights of excitement without the worry of parking or driving.

Vancouver

  1. Field trip bus
  2. Bus packages
  3. Bus rental for tours
  4. Mini coach rental
  5. Sightseeing bus
  6. Shuttle service
  7. Crew shuttle
  8. British Columbia
  9. Team travel
  10. Hourly bus rental
  11. Charter transportation
  12. Vancouver
  13. Bus fleet
  14. Coach hire
  15. Party bus
  16. Private group transport
  17. Motor coach rental
  18. Field trip bus
  19. Bus packages
Whether you're traveling for business or pleasure, the spacious interiors of the Prevost H3-45 ensure that your journey is as comfortable as the destination itself.

As you step aboard a Star Coach bus, you're enveloped in a world where comfort seamlessly blends with luxury. At Star Coach Bus Rentals, safety isn't just a priority; it's a constant commitment that ensures every trip you take is as secure as it's comfortable. From fuel-efficient buses to rigorous recycling programs, every aspect of our service is designed with the environment in mind.

Vancouver Corporate Charter Bus

You can reach out via phone or email, and we'll assist you in tailoring your reservation to meet your specific needs. Customers frequently mention the pristine condition of the buses, the professionalism of the drivers, and the ease of the booking process. With Star Coach Bus Rentals, you're not just getting a bus; you're getting a partner who values your comfort and safety as much as you do. You're not just getting from point A to point B; you're part of a larger effort to protect the environment for future generations.

From route planning to onboard amenities, they've got you covered, making sure that your corporate image is well represented. You'll have access to a range of buses, each equipped with amenities that ensure comfort and productivity on the go. For inquiries or to book your eco-friendly luxury travel, contact Star Coach's team directly through their website or by phone.

Imagine not having to worry about navigating through traffic or finding parking spots. From luxury coaches that can accommodate large groups in comfort and style to smaller, more intimate minibuses for your family outings or team-building exercises, there's something for everyone. Star Coach makes every journey memorable, proving they're not just a transport service but an essential part of your event's success.

This means you don't have to worry about the logistics; instead, you can focus on what you do best. Vancouver BC Star Coach's system is designed to provide you with an instant quote, ensuring transparency and avoiding any unpleasant surprises. 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.



Vancouver BC

  1. Crew shuttle
  2. British Columbia
  3. Team travel
  4. Hourly bus rental
  5. Coach hire
  6. Party bus
  7. Private group transport
  8. Motor coach rental
  9. Field trip bus
  10. Bus packages
  11. Bus rental for tours
  12. Mini coach rental
  13. Sightseeing bus
  14. Shuttle service
  15. Crew shuttle
  16. British Columbia
  17. Team travel
  18. Hourly bus rental
  19. Coach hire
Vancouver Corporate Charter Bus
Executive Group Coach Vancouver
Executive Group Coach Vancouver

Beyond their driving capabilities, Star Coach's staff are well-versed in handling logistics and customer relations. You can rest easy knowing that the team behind your trip is equipped with not only the skills to navigate the roads but also the expertise to ensure your experience is top-notch. Whether you're heading to Granville Island for some artisan shopping or to Stanley Park for a leisurely stroll among ancient cedars, we've got you covered. While customizing your luxury experience, it's crucial to emphasize that your safety and comfort always come first with Star Coach. If you're satisfied, you can proceed to confirm your booking online.

Bus rental for tours

  1. Bus rental for tours
  2. Mini coach rental
  3. Sightseeing bus
  4. Shuttle service
  5. Crew shuttle
  6. British Columbia
  7. Team travel
  8. Hourly bus rental
  9. Private group transport
  10. Motor coach rental
  11. Field trip bus
  12. Bus packages
  13. Bus rental for tours
  14. Mini coach rental
  15. Sightseeing bus
  16. Shuttle service
  17. Crew shuttle


Once you've submitted the form, a Star Coach representative will get in touch with you to discuss your needs further. You'll find yourself at the heart of Vancouver's most iconic locations, from the bustling Granville Island Market to the serene Queen Elizabeth Park, without the usual hassles of city exploration. From the moment you reach out for a booking, you're met with a team eager to tailor every detail to your preferences. That's it!

Or perhaps a party bus with state-of-the-art sound systems, mood lighting, and a stocked bar for your birthday celebration? Each vehicle is meticulously maintained and features state-of-the-art amenities to ensure your journey is as comfortable as it's memorable. Each bus undergoes rigorous maintenance and safety checks before hitting the road, ensuring that every component is in perfect working order. Don't miss the chance to marvel at the architectural wonder of Canada Place, its sail-like design a beacon on the waterfront, symbolizing Vancouver's seafaring heritage.

So, when you're ready to explore Vancouver in style, remember that our executive fleet is here to transform your city tour into a luxurious adventure. They've also encouraged digital ticketing and communication, reducing the need for paper and contributing to forest conservation efforts. Whether it's a corporate retreat, a sports team outing, or a family reunion, luxury bus rentals transform the mundane into the extraordinary. They're there to answer your questions, assist with your luggage, and accommodate your travel needs to the best of their abilities.

Luxury bus rental
Exclusive Chauffeured Coach Vancouver

You're provided with a fleet of luxury buses that cater to any corporate requirement, whether it's shuttling employees to a conference, entertaining clients with a city tour, or organizing a team-building retreat. At Star Coach, we've set high safety standards to ensure your journey isn't just enjoyable but also secure from start to finish. If you have a specific theme or ambiance in mind, let's know. Mini coach rental They've also embraced renewable energy sources where possible, further reducing their ecological impact. They're ready to adapt, ensuring your tailored tour package remains exactly how you envisioned it, even if your vision evolves.
You're not just getting a bus; you're getting a personalized travel experience. Moreover, Star Coach's commitment to safety doesn't stop at maintenance. You'll be in safe hands with our professional drivers who've undergone extensive background checks and possess years of experience navigating Vancouver's streets. Whether you're heading to a corporate event, a wedding, or a sightseeing tour, we tailor our route planning to your specific needs.
But the question remains: does this upscale approach to group transport genuinely enhance the overall appeal of Vancouver as a travel destination? 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. Understanding the importance of affordability, Star Coach regularly offers competitive pricing that ensures you get exceptional value for your transportation needs. A Star Coach representative will promptly get in touch to confirm your booking and discuss any additional requirements.
Each bus in our fleet isn't just a vehicle; it's a promise of safety, comfort, and luxury that we take seriously. Star Coach thought of everything!'Emily, a wedding planner, mentions, 'Choosing Star Coach for the wedding party transport was one of the best decisions I've made. Vancouver Their team goes above and beyond to accommodate your schedule, preferences, and any special requests you might have. They're not just about booking your ride; they're dedicated to tailoring the service to fit your specific requirements, whether it's for a corporate event, a school outing, or a personal celebration.

Explore Vancouver VIP Bus Rental here
Exclusive Chauffeured 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.
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  12. ^ "A Car Fit For A President". Grundy Insurance. February 25, 2017. Retrieved December 6, 2023.
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  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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