Various Vehicles that qualify as limousines
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Demystifying Vehicle Terms in the Limousine Business: A Customer’s Guide

Are you planning a special event or occasion and considering hiring a limousine service? The world of limousines can be a bit overwhelming, especially if you’re not familiar with the various vehicle terms used in the industry. Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered! In this blog post, we will clarify the different vehicle terms commonly used in the limousine business to help you better understand the services being offered.

  1. The Term “Limo”

    To Customers: When customers hear the term “limo,” they usually envision a luxurious, elongated vehicle often associated with grand events and VIP treatment. It evokes an image of style, sophistication, and a touch of glamour. Many customers aspire to experience the elegance and comfort a limo ride provides for their special occasions.

    To Our Company: At our limousine service, all of our vehicles are limos. This means that every vehicle in our fleet is designed to provide a premium and upscale experience to our valued customers. Whether you choose a classic sedan or a larger vehicle, rest assured that you’ll be enjoying the quintessential limousine experience with our top-notch services.

  2. Limo vs. Stretch Limo
    A common point of confusion is understanding the difference between a regular limo and a stretch limo:

    Regular sedan limousine, four-door and suitable for 2 adult passengers comfortably in the back seat.

    Regular Limo:
    A regular limo typically refers to a traditional luxury sedan or a car that falls within the limousine category. It offers the comfort and elegance expected from a limousine but may not have the elongated, stretched-out design.

    A stretch limousine is an elongated sedan with four doors and seating for 8-10 passengers.

    Stretch Limo:
    A stretch limo, on the other hand, is a modified version of the regular limo. It is extended in length to accommodate more passengers. Stretch limos do work for larger groups and special events that demand additional space, but come at the cost of more difficult entry and exit and a less comfortable riding experience for those seated sideways in the vehicle. It is also important to note that while a stretch limo might be listed as fitting 10 people, if all riding are adults, you’ll want to reduce that number down by two or three to fit comfortably.

  3. Limo Coach vs. Mini Coach/Motor Coach

    Interior of a Limo Coach sometimes features perimeter seating and sometimes forward-facing seats.

    Limo Coach:

    A limo coach, also known as a limo bus, is a spacious vehicle that combines the features of a limo and a bus. It offers ample room for passengers to move around, stand, and even dance in some cases. Limo coaches are equipped with amenities and are ideal for partying on the go or for large groups attending events together. While the issue of a comfortable entry and exit apply, the same issue of a comfortable riding experience does exist as a stretch limo.

    A Mini-Coach seats 27-30 passengers and typically has forward-facing seats.

    Interior of a mini-coach will usually feature forward-facing seating. Limo versions of a mini-coach are appointed with custom interiors and plenty of head and leg room.

    Mini Coach:

    A mini coach is a comfortable, compact version of a motor coach. It can accommodate a moderate number of passengers and is an excellent choice for corporate outings, airport transfers, or city tours. The mini coaches in our fleet are equipped with sound systems and A/V equipment for you to enjoy yourself during your outing. While they may lack the open floor space for dancing while in motion, they provide a convenient, comfortable and stylish mode of transportation.

    A full coach bus is suitable for around 55 passengers depending upon the model and customizations.

    Motor Coach:

    A motor coach is a full-sized bus designed to transport larger groups over longer distances. It is suitable for extended trips, such as charter services for out-of-town events, sightseeing tours, or even day trips with a large number of passengers.

  4. Sprinter Van vs. Limo Sprinter

    Sprinter vans will have forward-facing seats with 7-foot ceilings and ample leg-room. These can seat around 14 passengers.

    Sprinter Van:

    A Sprinter van is a versatile and comfortable vehicle that offers more space than a traditional van. It is an excellent choice for airport transfers, business trips, or any event that requires a blend of practicality and comfort.

    Limo Sprinters will have upgraded seating, flooring and other amenities for a luxurious and smooth ride.

    Limo Sprinter:

    A limo Sprinter is a modified version of the Sprinter van that brings the elegance and luxury of a limousine to a more spacious vehicle. It is perfect for accommodating larger groups while still enjoying the upscale amenities associated with a limo.

  5. Face Forward Seating vs. Perimeter Seating
    Face Forward Seating: In vehicles with face forward seating, the seats are arranged in a traditional manner, facing the front of the vehicle. This setup is common in regular limousines and Sprinter vans, providing a familiar and comfortable seating arrangement.

    Perimeter Seating:Β Perimeter seating, as the name suggests, places the seats along the perimeter or the sides of the vehicle. This configuration is often found in limo coaches and creates a more social and interactive space, allowing passengers to face each other during the ride.

  6. Party Bus vs. Mini Coach vs. Limo Coach

    Party Bus:

    While not a service offered by our company, a party bus is a vehicle designed to provide a lively and entertaining atmosphere for revelers. It usually features vibrant lighting, music systems, and party-themed amenities.

    Mini Coach:

    As mentioned earlier, a mini coach is a smaller, more compact version of a motor coach. While it may not have the party-oriented features of a party bus, it still offers a comfortable and stylish ride for various occasions, and can be a great option for any of your group transportation needs.

    Limo Coach:

    A limo coach combines the best of both worlds, providing a luxurious and party-ready environment with upscale amenities. It caters to larger groups looking for a fun and extravagant experience on wheels.

  7. Charter Coach Bus Services vs. Day Trip Services

    Charter Coach Bus Services:

    Charter coach bus services involve hiring a full-sized motor coach for specific periods, such as multiple days or weeks. These services are commonly used for group travel, corporate outings, or extended trips to distant destinations.

    Day Trip Services:

    Day trip services, on the other hand, are designed for shorter excursions that take place within a single day. These trips are well-suited for sightseeing tours, team-building events, or group outings where passengers return to their starting point within the same day.

In Conclusion

Understanding these vehicle terms will undoubtedly make it easier for you to communicate your preferences and expectations when discussing details with a limousine service representative. If in doubt about what you are requesting, please ask for clarifications. Our staff will always take the time to make sure the two of you are on the same page and you receive the services you are expecting. Whatever your choice, rest assured that a professional limousine service like ours will strive to make your experience memorable, stylish, and luxurious from start to finish. Enjoy the journey!