Luxury Group Transportation Vancouver

Luxury Group Transportation Vancouver

Transport charter

You're looking for value without compromise, and that's exactly what we deliver. From route planning to onboard amenities, they've got you covered, making sure that your corporate image is well represented. They're ready to adapt, ensuring your tailored tour package remains exactly how you envisioned it, even if your vision evolves. Learn more about Luxury Group Transportation Vancouver here That's the reality with these coaches. Vancouver's Star Coach Bus Rentals redefine comfort, ensuring you experience unparalleled relaxation during your journey.
Imagine boarding a bus that runs on clean energy, emitting far less pollution than traditional vehicles.

City tour bus

  1. Group tour bus
  2. Sport team transportation
  3. Greater Vancouver
  4. Tour transportation
  5. Bus services
  6. Crew shuttle
  7. City tour bus
  8. Comfortable bus rental
  9. Field trip bus
  10. Luxury transportation
  11. Tour bus rental
  12. Coach hire
  13. Passenger bus rental
  14. Sightseeing bus
  15. Bus leasing
Their drivers are seasoned professionals, handpicked for their experience and expertise. These coaches offer plush seating, climate control, entertainment systems, and onboard restrooms, ensuring that everyone feels pampered and special from the moment they step on. Learn more about Star Coach here. Our goal is to provide a seamless travel experience, where you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the journey, knowing that we're navigating the best path for you.
Every journey you take is more than just a ride; it's an experience designed for your comfort, entertainment, and convenience.

Greater Vancouver

  • Bus services
  • Crew shuttle
  • City tour bus
  • Comfortable bus rental
  • Field trip bus
  • Luxury transportation
  • Tour bus rental
  • Coach hire
  • Passenger bus rental
  • Sightseeing bus
  • Bus leasing
  • Group tour bus
  • Sport team transportation
  • Greater Vancouver
  • Tour transportation
  • Bus services
  • Crew shuttle
  • City tour bus
  • Comfortable bus rental
  • Field trip bus
Star Coach's commitment to sustainability doesn't stop at their vehicles. In essence, we're committed to providing you with an elite travel experience that's both affordable and exceptional. You're not just traveling; you're making memories in sheer style and comfort, transforming what would be ordinary commutes into integral parts of your Vancouver adventure.

Greater Vancouver

  • Comfortable bus rental
  • Field trip bus
  • Luxury transportation
  • Tour bus rental
  • Coach hire
  • Passenger bus rental
  • Sightseeing bus
  • Bus leasing
  • Crew shuttle
  • City tour bus
  • Comfortable bus rental
  • Field trip bus
  • Luxury transportation
  • Tour bus rental
  • Coach hire

Star Coach's team works closely with you to ensure every detail isn't just met, but exceeded.

City tour bus

  • Greater Vancouver
  • Tour transportation
  • Bus services
  • Crew shuttle
  • City tour bus
  • Comfortable bus rental
  • Field trip bus
  • Luxury transportation
  • Tour bus rental
  • Coach hire
  • Passenger bus rental
  • Sightseeing bus
  • Bus leasing
  • Greater Vancouver
  • Tour transportation
  • Bus services
  • Crew shuttle
And for those longer journeys, there's no need to worry about your devices running low; power outlets and USB charging ports are within easy reach. Imagine gliding through the bustling streets and serene landscapes of this coastal city, all while ensconced in unparalleled comfort. It's not just a ride; it's an experience crafted just for you.

From the initial inquiry to the final drop-off, their team ensures your needs are met with professionalism and courtesy. You're not just getting from point A to point B; you're making a statement. It's not just about the fuel, though. Victoria itself, with its charming downtown and beautiful Butchart Gardens, becomes even more accessible and enjoyable.

However, Star Coach differentiates itself through a blend of unmatched luxury fleet options, tailored travel experiences, and exceptional customer service that genuinely stands apart.

City tour bus

  1. Tour bus rental
  2. Coach hire
  3. Passenger bus rental
  4. Sightseeing bus
  5. Bus leasing
  6. Tour bus rental
  7. Coach hire
  8. Passenger bus rental
  9. Sightseeing bus
  10. Bus leasing
  11. Tour bus rental
  12. Coach hire
  13. Passenger bus rental
  14. Sightseeing bus
  15. Bus leasing
  16. Tour bus rental
  17. Coach hire
  18. Passenger bus rental
  19. Sightseeing bus
  20. Bus leasing
Recognizing the importance of sustainability, Star Coach has integrated eco-friendly practices into their luxury bus services. Shuttle service 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. Group tour bus

In essence, luxury bus rentals in Vancouver provide a smart, sophisticated solution to your corporate travel dilemmas. If you're looking to unwind, take advantage of the onboard entertainment system, complete with a selection of movies, music, and games. You won't have to worry about cramped legs or a stiff neck; there's ample room to stretch out and relax.

Each of these features works together to provide a safety net, giving you peace of mind as you enjoy the luxurious travel experience onboard Star Coach's Prevost H3-45 coaches. What truly sets Star Coach apart, however, is their commitment to personalized service. You're not just moving from point A to B; you're embarking on a scenic voyage, where every turn presents a new picture-perfect panorama.

Vancouver Coach Rental

Vancouver is one of the most ethnically and linguistically diverse cities in Canada: 49.3 percent of its residents are not native English speakers, 47.8 percent are native speakers of neither English nor French, and 54.5 percent of residents belong to visible minority groups. It has been consistently ranked one of the most liveable cities in Canada and in the world. In terms of housing affordability, Vancouver is also one of the most expensive cities in Canada and in the world. Vancouverism is the city's urban planning design philosophy.

Citations and other links

Chauffeured Limousine Coach Vancouver

Looking for a bespoke travel plan? Every vehicle in our fleet undergoes regular, comprehensive inspections to ensure they meet the highest operational standards. Whether it's premier event transportation, guided sightseeing tours, or corporate services, they seem to effortlessly exceed expectations. The buses are meticulously maintained, with regular cleaning and sanitization.

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. But it doesn't end there. Clients often rave about the seamless booking process, highlighting how easy and stress-free it makes organizing group travel.

Tour transportation

  1. Transport charter
  2. Affordable bus rental
  3. Festival shuttle
  4. Charter shuttle service
  5. Corporate bus rental
  6. Shuttle service
  7. Bus driver service
  8. Bus hire
  9. Event transportation
  10. Group tour bus
  11. Sport team transportation
  12. Greater Vancouver
  13. Tour transportation
  14. Bus services
  15. Crew shuttle
  16. City tour bus
  17. Comfortable bus rental


You're not just renting a bus; you're investing in an experience that's tailored to meet the highest expectations. Moreover, Star Coach insists on rigorous maintenance schedules for their buses, ensuring each vehicle operates at peak performance with no compromise on safety or comfort. And let's not forget the climate control system, keeping the interior at a perfect, comfortable temperature regardless of what's happening outside.

Rates are transparent, with no hidden fees lurking to surprise you later. In Star Coach, every detail is thoughtfully considered to ensure your journey is as enjoyable as your destination. Field trip bus It's quiet too, with advanced sound insulation that keeps the hustle and bustle of the streets at bay.

Bus driver service

  1. City tour bus
  2. Comfortable bus rental
  3. Field trip bus
  4. Luxury transportation
  5. Tour bus rental
  6. Coach hire
  7. Passenger bus rental
  8. Sightseeing bus
  9. Bus leasing
  10. Tour transportation
  11. Bus services
  12. Crew shuttle
  13. City tour bus
  14. Comfortable bus rental
  15. Field trip bus
  16. Luxury transportation
  17. Tour bus rental
  18. Coach hire
  19. Passenger bus rental
  20. Sightseeing bus


Chauffeured Limousine Coach Vancouver
Corporate Private Coach Service Vancouver

Corporate Private Coach Service Vancouver

Personal charging stations ensure your devices are always powered up, so you never miss out. Crew shuttle This form guides you through each step, ensuring you don't miss any vital information. With Star Coach, you're not just booking a bus; you're ensuring a seamless, professional experience that reflects your company's commitment to quality and excellence. What sets them apart isn't just their fleet of high-end buses, but their unwavering commitment to ensuring every trip is memorable. Tour transportation It's clear that Star Coach prioritizes not just luxury and comfort but also ease and efficiency in every step of your booking process.
At Star Coach, it's not just about getting you to your destination; it's about making sure you enjoy every step of the journey. We've handpicked every coach for its advanced features, including plush seating, ample legroom, state-of-the-art entertainment systems, and climate control, to ensure your journey is as comfortable as it's memorable. You'll find our team readily available to assist you, whether it's a question about your booking, a special request for your trip, or assistance while you're on the road. 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. Bus driver service
Your safety isn't just our priority; it's our promise. The designers have thought of everything to make your journey as comfortable as it's stylish. Read more about Luxury Group Transportation Vancouver here For weddings, a luxury bus can transport your guests together, ensuring everyone arrives on time and in high spirits. That's the experience our clients rave about.
What sets Star Coach apart is their attention to detail. Their professional drivers navigate the city with ease, ensuring you arrive at your destinations refreshed and ready to explore. Their reputation isn't just built on the physical aspects of their buses, though. Did you know that over 10 million tourists visit Vancouver each year, seeking not just the breathtaking landscapes and vibrant city life but also exceptional comfort and convenience in their travel?

Vancouver Deluxe Bus Rental

And as you're about to find out, their reputation for excellence isn't just talk. They'll work with you to adjust plans without a fuss. Choosing Star Coach means you're opting for not just a ride, but a premium service that elevates group travel to a new standard. From the moment you reach out with an inquiry, you're met with a team eager to cater to your every need.

Charter shuttle service

  1. Coach hire
  2. Passenger bus rental
  3. Sightseeing bus
  4. Bus leasing
  5. Coach hire
  6. Passenger bus rental
  7. Sightseeing bus
  8. Bus leasing
  9. Coach hire
  10. Passenger bus rental
  11. Sightseeing bus
  12. Bus leasing
  13. Coach hire
  14. Passenger bus rental
  15. Sightseeing bus
  16. Bus leasing
  17. Coach hire
  18. Passenger bus rental


Your group can explore Whistler, a world-renowned ski resort and summer haven, without worrying about navigation or parking. 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. They'll map it out.

Imagine gliding along the Sea-to-Sky Highway, with its stunning vistas of the Pacific Ocean and towering mountains, all from the plush seats of your private coach. Whether you're planning a corporate event, a family reunion, or a luxurious getaway with friends, we've got you covered. But what truly makes their approach revolutionary?

We encourage you to join us in our efforts by minimizing waste and opting for digital ticketing and communication options whenever possible. You'll find their responsiveness is unmatched. Their advanced booking system, punctuality, and onboard amenities only sweeten the deal.

Festival shuttle
Vancouver Deluxe Bus Rental
Custom Bus Hire Vancouver
Custom Bus Hire Vancouver

You'll find the latest in entertainment technology at your fingertips. Choosing Star Coach's corporate travel packages means you're opting for reliability, flexibility, and comfort. Whether it's a corporate retreat, a major conference, or a special celebration, discover why choosing Star Coach could be the game-changer for your next event. Moreover, Star Coach's drivers aren't just behind the wheel; they're the front line of the commitment to safety.

Questions?

Bus services

  • Shuttle service
  • Bus driver service
  • Bus hire
  • Event transportation
  • Group tour bus
  • Sport team transportation
  • Greater Vancouver
  • Tour transportation
  • Bus services
  • Crew shuttle
  • City tour bus
  • Comfortable bus rental
  • Field trip bus
  • Luxury transportation
  • Tour bus rental
  • Coach hire
  • Passenger bus rental
  • Sightseeing bus
  • Bus leasing
You won't be left hanging. With their unmatched fleet quality, tailored luxury experiences, and advanced onboard amenities, you're in for a travel experience that sets new standards.

You'll find each seat spacious enough to stretch out, recline, and unwind, without bumping elbows with your neighbor. Whether you're planning a corporate event, a wedding, or a luxury tour around Vancouver, they ensure your transportation is seamless and stress-free. We believe in the power of sustainable travel and are dedicated to implementing eco-friendly practices across our operations.

You'll find the cabin of the H3-45 surprisingly serene, thanks to its advanced noise reduction technology. In recent years, an impressive 60% of luxury bus rentals in Vancouver have been attributed to Star Coach, a company that's quickly become synonymous with the epitome of travel opulence. They're with you every step of the way, from pre-trip planning to post-trip follow-up, ensuring your experience is smooth and hassle-free.

First-Class Corporate Coach Vancouver

As we unpack the strategic route planning, competitive pricing models, and their commitment to sustainable travel, you'll discover how Star Coach is reshaping luxury travel in Vancouver.

Bus services

  1. Luxury transportation
  2. Tour bus rental
  3. Coach hire
  4. Passenger bus rental
  5. Sightseeing bus
  6. Bus leasing
  7. Field trip bus
  8. Luxury transportation
  9. Tour bus rental
  10. Coach hire
  11. Passenger bus rental
  12. Sightseeing bus
  13. Bus leasing
  14. Field trip bus
  15. Luxury transportation
  16. Tour bus rental
  17. Coach hire
  18. Passenger bus rental
  19. Sightseeing bus
It's this proactive approach that sets Star Coach apart. They ensure your safety and comfort throughout the journey, adding a personal touch that makes the trip memorable. With us, you're not just booking a bus rental; you're securing peace of mind, knowing that every aspect of your ride reflects our commitment to excellence.

Charter shuttle service

  1. Group tour bus
  2. Sport team transportation
  3. Greater Vancouver
  4. Tour transportation
  5. Bus services
  6. Crew shuttle
  7. City tour bus
  8. Comfortable bus rental
  9. Field trip bus
  10. Luxury transportation
  11. Tour bus rental
  12. Coach hire
  13. Passenger bus rental
  14. Sightseeing bus
  15. Bus leasing
  16. Event transportation
  17. Group tour bus
  18. Sport team transportation
  19. Greater Vancouver
  20. Tour transportation
Want your logo displayed on the screens?
You're not just passing through; you're immersing yourself in the essence of Vancouver. Choosing our luxury bus rentals means prioritizing your comfort and space, transforming your group travel experience from merely functional to genuinely enjoyable. It's this kind of attention to detail that sets Star Coach apart, making them not just a service you use but one you wholeheartedly recommend. 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.
Safety and comfort are their top priorities, so you can rest assured that every detail, from the driver's expertise to the vehicle's maintenance, is taken care of. They're committed to maintaining the highest safety standards, keeping you safe and secure, no matter the destination. City tour bus Moreover, Star Coach understands the importance of flexibility in pricing. They don't just offer a ride; they provide a travel experience that's steeped in comfort and convenience, making every journey memorable.
You'll appreciate the clarity of information available on their platform. The bus's panoramic windows ensure you don't miss a single view, whether it's the majestic Lions Gate Bridge or the tranquil beauty of English Bay. It's a win-win: you enjoy top-notch service while supporting eco-conscious transportation. But it's not just about comfort. Affordable bus rental

Explore Luxury Group Transportation Vancouver here
First-Class 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

 

Frequently Asked Questions

You might face some destination restrictions with Star Coach buses, especially regarding remote or off-road locations. It's best to check in advance if your specific destination might pose any challenges for their buses.

Yes, as a frequent renter of these luxury coaches, you're eligible for loyalty programs and discounts. They appreciate repeat business and offer rewards to ensure you're getting the best value on your future rentals.

If you leave something on the bus, Star Coach works diligently to return your items. You'll need to report the lost belonging, and they'll guide you through their recovery process to reunite you with your stuff.