A History of the New York Limousine

Known as the preferred automobile for the rich and famous limousines are one of the most secure and comfortable ways to make your way through the streets of New York. There’s nothing that will make you feel more like a celebrity than stepping out of a sleek limousine and some companies will actually roll out a red carpet for you to make your grand entrance.

What Exactly Is A Limousine?

Limousines are a luxury sedan driven by a chauffeur that has a partition between the driver and the passenger section. They are the most expensive form of ground transportation and are usually associated with those of affluence and authority. The first limousine was built in 1902 and was designed so that the driver sat outside of the main section under a covered compartment.

The first stretch limousine was created in 1928 in Fort Smith, Arkansas by a company named Armbruster. Their goal was originally just to transport famous bands and their equipment often being referred to as “big band buses.” Traditional limousines can fit up to five people in the back and up to two people in the front with the driver offering a capacity for seven passengers. Modern day stretch limousines can carry up to three passengers in the back and have a partition that was designed as a sliding glass window, which is often soundproof, and prevents conversations between passengers in the rear from being overheard by the chauffeur.

Who Uses Limousines?

The majority of limousines are owned by companies offering their own services. Some government branches own them as a way to transport government officials, while others are individually owned. Clients looking for limousines and chauffeurs are usually looking for them for special events. For VIPs like government officials they can be outfitted with additional features like armoring and bullet proof glass. New York limos are perfect for special events like weddings, bachelorette and bachelor parties, and proms. Amenities like audio players, televisions, video players and bars with mini fridges make nights, or days, out that much memorable.

The New York City Taxi and Limousine Commission

A Charter-mandated agency created in 1971 the New York City Taxi and Limousine Commission are responsible for licensing and regulating over 50,000 vehicles like medallion taxicabs, for-hire vehicles, emergency vehicles like ambulances and limousines. They were founded to deal with the increasing amount of issues the vehicle industry has and set the standards for taxicab rates, insurance and coverage requirements, driver and equipment safety, and the criteria for the licensing of operators, vehicles and drivers.

As one of the most active taxi and limousine licensing agencies in the U.S. the Commission plays a significant role in making sure the people who live in New York as well as the people visiting the city by making sure any companies with vehicles for hire always maintain their high standards, rules and regulations. They also make sure vehicles are kept up-to-date with new technological advances and are constantly thinking of new ways to help people get around more efficiently.

So the next time you’re out looking for the perfect New York wedding limo or just a luxurious ride you can rest assured knowing that you can find a safe and secure limousine right in the Big Apple.