The idea of chauffeured vehicles occurred long ago in the 1700s. Only then it was the finest horses adorned with gold specifically for the transportation of the wealthy. Limousines originated in France, where the name originates from. The people in the Limousin region wore a cloak and hood that looked kind of like the covering over a carriage and gave us the word limousine. The unique feature about limousines is the separate compartment between the driver and the passengers.
In 1902, the first automobile limousine was developed. The driver sat up front in a covered compartment which brings about the name limousine. Later, a stretch one emerged in 1928 from Arkansas. He modified it to a stretch limo because he needed more space to hold large bands and equipment. You may have heard of some of them, Glenn Miller, Benny Goodman, Louis Armstrong and others. (Well, the younger readers may not have heard of these musicians and bands.)
Because of their purpose to mostly transport famous leaders, they coined the name ‘big band buses. As from 1930 limousines increased and were used for transportation of guests from the airport to the hotel. Due to this, ‘Airporter Stretch Coach’ was born. In the 1960s and 1970s, presidents and movie stars began using them more often, for daily use.
Nowadays, it’s no longer an affair of the affluent in society. More and more people are using limousine transport for various purposes such as weddings, funerals, church events, corporate events, proms, romantic occasions, sporting events, the list is endless. A popular use is for communions, bar mitzvahs and bat mitzvahs as well as Quinceanera celebrations.
Technology has enabled different models and designs to arise from the conventional limo. Many limousines are very conservative and subdued. However, others are wild, with amazing LED lighting schemes with a range of colors. The interiors can also have some pretty spectacular color schemes as well. Then some limos, like some converted Hummer limos have gull-wing doors that look like something from Back to the Future.
The comfort, style, and luxury benefits are what makes them a favorite for many. With the ability to hold more people these days, they have become more affordable and versatile in their purpose. Hummer limos and buses are examples of the many different types of limos available today in the market.
Limo companies provide convenience, safety, luxury, and unforgettable memories. Today’s cars can be specially crafted into whichever the stretch limo model is required by the owner and a variety of accessories to choose from.