History of the Limousine

History of the Limousine

Ever since the 1700’s the limousine has been a symbol of wealth and style for the rich and famous. From sedan chairs to the modern-day stretch limo this idea still holds true.

When most people hear the word “limousine” the first thing they think of is a long car, right? But not many people know how that car got its name. The word limousine is derived from the name of the French region Limousine, because this covered compartment physically resembled the raised hood of the cloak worn by the shepherds there used to wear to protect themselves from the weather.

The first automobile limousine, built in 1902, was designed so the driver sat outside under a covered compartment.

An alternate etymology has the chauffeur wearing a Limousine-style cloak in the open driver's compartment, for protection from the weather.

Before the invention of the car, drivers of carriages sat in an open area while the owners or masters rode in luxury inside. The drivers who were exposed to the elements would wear these hooded cloaks for protection. After cars were invented early forms of limousines still had an open area with a top that stretched over the driver. Since he was still exposed to the weather he wore this type of hooded cloak. From this the word simply evolved to its present-day usage.

In 1916, the Society of Automobile Engineers defined a limousine as: "a closed car seating three to five inside, with driver's seat outside." A berline was defined as "a limousine having the driver's seat entirely enclosed", while a brougham was defined as "a limousine with no roof over the driver's seat.

The first “stretch limousine” was created in Fort Smith, Arkansas around 1928 by a coach company named Armbruster. These limos were mainly used to transport famous “big band” leaders, such as Glenn Miller and Benny Goodman, around the country along with their equipment. Because of this these limos were called “big band buses.”

Around 1930 to 1940 hotels began to transport their guests to and from airports in limos. Tour guide companies also began using limos to take groups on tours. And don’t forget the movie industry. Limos were a good way to move film crews and staff around the moving sets. And, of course, it’s an unspoken rule that Hollywood actors must have access to a limousine! They certainly couldn’t be seen arriving at an event in a four-door sedan.

By the 1960’s limousines were being used to transport American presidents and other important government officials. These came equipped with bulletproof glass and armor plating for safety. In 1974 the first six-door funeral limousines were built and these have remained popular to this day. The latest addition to the limousine line is the stretch limo. These cars have many exotic details that might not be practical but are valued for the statement they make about the person renting it. The white stretch limo is often thought of as the ‘ultimate’ in luxury. They are very popular for weddings and proms. The bottom line is that limousines aren't just for the rich and famous anymore.

Rolls-Royce Phantom IV

Touring limousine, 7 Seater for HRH The Prince Regent of Iraq, 1953 coachwork by Hooper

1908 Studebaker limousine with open driver's compartment for the chauffeur and a closed cabin for the passengers

Novelty limousines

Trabant limousine

An example is the East German Trabant that was designed for a low manufacturing cost and incorporated body panels made from a rag fiber and plastic resin material. Volkswagen Beetles, Fiat Pandas, and Citroën 2CV vehicles are occasionally stretched into limousines.

Novelty color limousines, such as purple and pink, are another way to express individuality when renting a vehicle for special occasions.

Volkswagen Beetle limousine

A variety of vehicles have been converted into novelty limousines. They may be rented for weddings for those "looking to travel in style".

Other Uses

In the U.S., Canada, and Australia, limousines can be any type of car operated by a "limousine service" or "car service" company. The car should be luxurious and well equipped. Such companies offer cars with drivers, often for shared rides on popular routes, such as airport limousines, also known as shuttle limo. Limousines usually have to be booked in advance and are not hired on the spot as taxi cabs can be.