Vancouver Downtown Private Transportation

Vancouver Downtown Private Transportation

Private VIP Car Service

You're not just booking a ride; you're securing an experience that blends comfort, elegance, and punctuality seamlessly. Luxury Corporate Travel Your wish is their command. Learn more about Vancouver Downtown Private Transportation here And with a closer look at what awaits upon arrival, it's clear this isn't an opportunity to merely move, but to be moved in ways you've yet to imagine. Luxury SUV Rental 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.
Your comfort is our priority, which is why you'll find complimentary refreshments and snacks to keep you refreshed. Instead, Banff Transport offers personalized pricing, which means you pay for exactly what you need and nothing more. Furthermore, you can expect impeccable punctuality.
Whether you're planning a family vacation, a corporate event, or a special celebration, they've got you covered. You won't find these opportunities in standard travel itineraries. Our luxury private transportation service is designed to offer you a seamless experience, whether you're heading to a cruise terminal or ferry port in Vancouver. Corporate Executive Transport
You won't have to worry about navigating traffic or finding parking. Whether it's a quick downtown pickup or a leisurely tour around Vancouver's scenic routes, they've got you covered. Luxury Transportation Company Whether you're planning a family getaway to unseen natural wonders or organizing a group trip to bustling city events, Banff Transport's future routes will cater to your adventurous spirit.

Learn more about Banff Transport here.

You don't have to worry about the details; our professional drivers handle everything, allowing you to focus on enjoying your special day. Following the seamless booking process, your safety and privacy take center stage with Banff Transport's stringent standards. It's this commitment to fleet excellence that sets them apart, making every trip with them a truly exceptional experience. But it doesn't stop there. Private SUV Transportation
The service's customer support is usually very responsive and accommodating, ensuring your journey is tailored precisely to your expectations. With Banff Transport, you're not just traveling; you're creating stories that you'll look back on fondly for years to come. From the moment you book until you reach your destination, safety and reliability aren't just promised-they're delivered.
Banff Transport also offers excursions to Whistler, Victoria, and even across the border to Seattle. So, get ready to explore more, with Banff Transport making your journey as memorable as the places you visit.

Private VIP Car Service

  • Luxury Prom Limo
  • Luxury Ride
  • VIP Airport Pickup
  • Luxury Car Service
  • VIP Transportation
  • Luxury Ground Transportation
  • Corporate Car Service
  • Luxury Chauffeur Service
  • Luxury Limousine
  • Premium Limo Service
  • Luxury Airport Shuttle
  • Private SUV Transportation
  • Luxury SUV Rental
  • Executive Transportation
  • Executive Limo
  • Luxury Sedan Rental
  • Luxury Transportation Company
  • Luxury Travel Transportation
  • Corporate Executive Transport
  • Luxury Wedding Transport
Read more about Vancouver Downtown Private Transportation here The professionalism of the chauffeurs, coupled with a diverse fleet selection, ensures that your personalized travel plans unfold exactly as you envision.
These services prioritize your safety by ensuring all vehicles undergo rigorous maintenance checks and adhere to the highest safety standards. Safety and comfort aren't just promised; they're delivered, making your travel experience truly luxurious. Another customer, Mark, highlights the exceptional customer service during a corporate event.

High-End Shuttle

  1. Luxury Party Bus
  2. Executive Car Service
  3. Luxury Sedan Service
  4. Corporate Shuttle
  5. Private Limo
  6. Luxury Van Service
  7. Luxury Fleet
  8. Luxury Private Coach
  9. Luxury Night Out Transport
  10. Business Executive Shuttle
  11. Luxury Limousine Rental
  12. Luxury Prom Limo
  13. Luxury Ride
  14. VIP Airport Pickup
  15. Luxury Car Service
  16. VIP Transportation
  17. Luxury Ground Transportation
  18. Premium Limo Service
  19. Luxury Airport Shuttle
'The team handled every detail with professionalism.

Citations and other links

Elite Transportation Vancouver

You'll find that packages range from basic, point-to-point rides to comprehensive, all-inclusive tours around Vancouver's scenic spots. Our commitment is to provide you with a luxurious, reliable, and comfortable experience from start to finish. This is where the value of choosing Banff Transport truly shines through. Have you ever imagined gliding through Vancouver's bustling streets, ensconced in the lap of luxury, without the usual fret over navigating or parking?

Upon your arrival, a professional chauffeur awaits, ready to take your luggage and guide you to your luxurious ride. This isn't a rushed journey; it's an immersive experience that invites you to connect with the natural splendor of British Columbia on your terms. Just like a fine wine transforms an ordinary meal into a culinary adventure, Banff Transport's luxury private transportation service from Vancouver to Banff promises to elevate your travel experience from mere transit to an elegant journey.

You'll find that they're not just talking the talk; they're walking the walk by integrating eco-friendly vehicles into their fleet. It's not just about the ride; it's about the personalized attention and the peace of mind that comes with knowing every detail is taken care of. Understanding the unpredictable nature of travel, the luxury private transportation service offers flexible scheduling options to fit your unique itinerary.

Utterly seamless. Starting with our basic package, prices begin at a competitive rate for a one-way transfer to your destination. Their streamlined online platform allows you to select your preferred luxury vehicle, specify pickup and drop-off times, and even customize your ride preferences in a matter of minutes.

Luxury Corporate Travel

  1. Luxury Transportation Company
  2. Luxury Travel Transportation
  3. Corporate Executive Transport
  4. Luxury Wedding Transport
  5. Airport Transfer
  6. Luxury City Tour
  7. Private Chauffeur
  8. Private Minivan Service
  9. Luxury Party Bus
  10. Executive Car Service
  11. Luxury Sedan Service
  12. Corporate Shuttle
  13. Private Limo
  14. Luxury Van Service
  15. Luxury Fleet
  16. Luxury Private Coach
  17. Luxury Night Out Transport
  18. Business Executive Shuttle
  19. Luxury Limousine Rental


Elite Transportation Vancouver
Ferry Terminal Private Car Service Vancouver

Ferry Terminal Private Car Service Vancouver

Our service goes beyond the conventional, offering you a taste of luxury with every detail tailored to meet your needs and preferences. Before you step in, rest assured that your ride has been meticulously prepared to meet the highest standards of hygiene and mechanical performance. In essence, every aspect of the luxury private transportation service is designed with your comfort, convenience, and satisfaction in mind, making it the ultimate choice for your Vancouver airport transfers. These exclusive stops are tailored to your interests, whether you're an avid hiker, a food lover, or a photography enthusiast. As you contemplate the convenience of moving around the city with unparalleled ease, consider the blend of sophistication and comfort that awaits you.

Don't just stick to the well-trodden paths; ask your driver for insider tips on hidden gems that most tourists miss. You'll find vehicles equipped with the latest amenities to ensure your travel isn't just comfortable but also exceptionally enjoyable. The basic tier starts with a competitive rate for smaller groups, making it an accessible option for family outings or intimate group travels. You'll be relieved to know that each vehicle in our fleet is equipped with the latest safety technologies, including GPS tracking and advanced driver assistance systems, to ensure a smooth and safe ride.

To simplify your travel arrangements, the booking process for luxury private transportation is straightforward and user-friendly. Each vehicle is meticulously maintained and equipped with top-notch amenities to enhance your travel experience. It transforms a simple transfer into an integral part of your adventure, setting the tone for an unforgettable visit to Banff. Payment procedures vary, but options typically include credit card, bank transfer, or online payment platforms. Luxury Hotel Shuttle

You're not just another passenger; you're the master of your adventure. Picture yourself stepping into a high-end vehicle, where the seats are more than just seats-they're plush, spacious havens designed to provide the utmost comfort over the long haul. As the saying goes, it's not just the destination but the journey that counts. Our luxury private transportation service turns any special occasion into an unforgettable experience, ensuring you arrive in style and comfort. Airport Transfer

Vancouver Luxury Tour Transportation

After that, you pick a date and time that works for you.

Airport Transfer

  1. Luxury Party Bus
  2. Executive Car Service
  3. Luxury Sedan Service
  4. Corporate Shuttle
  5. Private Limo
  6. Luxury Van Service
  7. Luxury Fleet
  8. Luxury Private Coach
  9. Luxury Night Out Transport
  10. Business Executive Shuttle
  11. Luxury Limousine Rental
  12. Luxury Prom Limo
  13. Luxury Ride
  14. VIP Airport Pickup
  15. Luxury Car Service
  16. VIP Transportation
  17. Luxury Ground Transportation
Imagine gliding through breathtaking landscapes, ensconced in your personal haven, where every detail is curated to honor your need for solitude. The price quoted at booking is the price you'll pay, giving you peace of mind and making budgeting for your trip easier. They undergo rigorous background checks and continuous training to navigate Vancouver's roads with ease, ensuring you arrive at your destination not only in style but also on time and safe.

This means you can sit back, enjoy the ride, or focus on preparing for your upcoming meeting or event. Plus, hand sanitizer is always available for both you and the driver, creating a clean and comfortable environment throughout your journey. Luxury Travel Transportation Then there's the team of chauffeurs. Executive Limo

They're trained not just in safe driving but in customer service excellence, making every interaction pleasant and every request accommodated. They'll greet you warmly, manage your luggage with care, and navigate the scenic Sea to Sky route with an expertise that promises not just a trip, but an experience. You've got a variety of options to suit your taste and needs.

Banff Transport prides itself on its flexibility, offering services 24/7 to accommodate early flights, late-night events, and everything in between. And with premium sound systems, your favorite tunes or podcasts provide the perfect soundtrack to an unforgettable trip.

Luxury Transportation Company

  • Private Limo
  • Luxury Van Service
  • Luxury Fleet
  • Luxury Private Coach
  • Luxury Night Out Transport
  • Business Executive Shuttle
  • Luxury Limousine Rental
  • Luxury Prom Limo
  • Luxury Ride
  • VIP Airport Pickup
  • Luxury Car Service
  • VIP Transportation
  • Luxury Ground Transportation
  • Airport Transfer
  • Luxury City Tour
  • Private Chauffeur
  • Private Minivan Service
  • Luxury Party Bus
  • Executive Car Service
  • Luxury Sedan Service
Understanding the need for flexibility, especially when traveling with kids, these services include child seats upon request and ample luggage space, making it easier to carry everything from strollers to sports equipment.



Luxury Hotel Shuttle

  • Airport Transfer
  • Luxury City Tour
  • Private Chauffeur
  • Private Minivan Service
  • Luxury Party Bus
  • Executive Car Service
  • Luxury Sedan Service
  • Corporate Shuttle
  • Private Limo
  • Luxury Van Service
  • Luxury Fleet
  • Luxury Private Coach
  • Luxury Night Out Transport
  • Business Executive Shuttle
  • Luxury Limousine Rental
  • Luxury Prom Limo
  • Luxury Ride
Vancouver Luxury Tour Transportation
Vancouver Elite Airport Transportation
Vancouver Elite Airport Transportation

Whether you're after a bottle of champagne to celebrate, or simply require a child seat, they've got you covered. Choosing this service means you're not just getting from point A to B; you're indulging in an experience. Strategically located throughout the city, these pickup points are chosen for their accessibility and proximity to popular downtown landmarks and accommodations. Luxury Airport Shuttle After submitting your details, you'll receive a confirmation of your booking. We understand the importance of punctuality, comfort, and efficiency, especially after a long flight.

But what truly sets this service apart? 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. Want to soak in the breathtaking views of the North Shore mountains? With these premium features and amenities, your trip from Vancouver to Banff isn't just a travel necessity; it becomes a highlight of your adventure, setting the tone for an unforgettable experience in the Canadian Rockies.

You'll experience unparalleled comfort from the moment you're picked up until you reach your destination. After ensuring your safety with their stringent standards, Banff Transport also makes booking your luxury ride incredibly straightforward and hassle-free. When you opt for luxury transportation, you're not just paying for a ride; you're investing in an experience. Imagine bypassing the crowds, avoiding the hassles of public transport, and instead, settling into a plush, spacious vehicle that caters to your every need.

It truly started my vacation on a high note.' Mark D. highlighted the exceptional service, noting, 'The driver wasn't only professional but also very knowledgeable about the area.

Private VIP Car Service

  1. Private VIP Car Service
  2. Luxury Ride Share
  3. Luxury Hotel Shuttle
  4. Luxury Corporate Travel
  5. High-End Shuttle
  6. Corporate Car Service
  7. Luxury Chauffeur Service
  8. Luxury Limousine
  9. Premium Limo Service
  10. Luxury Airport Shuttle
  11. Private SUV Transportation
  12. Luxury SUV Rental
  13. Executive Transportation
  14. Executive Limo
  15. Luxury Sedan Rental
Imagine stepping into a luxurious vehicle, where comfort meets convenience. You've got legroom to stretch, Wi-Fi to stay connected, and perhaps even a refreshment or two to make the journey more enjoyable. Once everything's set, you'll receive a confirmation email with all your trip details, leaving you to simply anticipate the comfort and luxury that await on your journey from Vancouver to Banff.

Downtown Vancouver Executive Transportation

They're constantly monitoring health advisories and updating their procedures accordingly, ensuring they're always a step ahead in safeguarding your well-being. You'll find only the latest models, each equipped with plush interiors and cutting-edge technology to ensure your journey is both comfortable and connected.

Executive Transportation

  • Luxury Night Out Transport
  • Business Executive Shuttle
  • Luxury Limousine Rental
  • Luxury Prom Limo
  • Luxury Ride
  • VIP Airport Pickup
  • Luxury Car Service
  • VIP Transportation
  • Luxury Ground Transportation
  • Luxury Transportation Company
  • Luxury Travel Transportation
  • Corporate Executive Transport
  • Luxury Wedding Transport
  • Airport Transfer
  • Luxury City Tour
Premium Limo Service You'll also get the chance to visit famous landmarks without the hassle of crowds. You'll find yourself surrounded by elegance and sophistication from the moment you step into one of our vehicles.
You won't find a one-size-fits-all approach here. It's not just about the seats, though. They'll take you there.
It's where every detail matters, and your satisfaction is the ultimate goal. Their fleet consists of the latest, meticulously maintained vehicles, ensuring a smooth and stylish journey every time. It's not just about sitting back; it's about immersing yourself in an environment where every detail caters to your comfort and convenience.
It was the highlight of our trip,' she says enthusiastically. With their tailored services, you're not just booking a transportation service; you're designing your ideal travel experience. These services understand the importance of protecting the stunning natural environment you're eager to explore.

Private VIP Car Service

  1. VIP Airport Pickup
  2. Luxury Car Service
  3. VIP Transportation
  4. Luxury Ground Transportation
  5. Luxury Limousine
  6. Premium Limo Service
  7. Luxury Airport Shuttle
  8. Private SUV Transportation
  9. Luxury SUV Rental
  10. Executive Transportation
  11. Executive Limo
  12. Luxury Sedan Rental
  13. Luxury Transportation Company
  14. Luxury Travel Transportation
  15. Corporate Executive Transport
  16. Luxury Wedding Transport
  17. Airport Transfer
  18. Luxury City Tour
  19. Private Chauffeur
  20. Private Minivan Service

Explore Vancouver Downtown Private Transportation here
Downtown Vancouver Executive Transportation
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

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can make last-minute changes to your reservation, including time adjustments or destination modifications. They're flexible and aim to accommodate your needs, ensuring your experience is as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Yes, you can bring pets on the luxury private transportation from Vancouver to Banff. However, there might be specific requirements or fees involved, so it's best to check with the service provider beforehand.

You can indeed arrange for multiple pick-up or drop-off points along your route from Vancouver to Banff to accommodate additional passengers. Just make sure to coordinate these stops in advance with your transportation provider.