The sleek sedans we now call limousines are a creation of the 20th century. Traditionally to the rich and wealthy they are now much used for occasions like weddings, funerals and proms. They have turn out to be an alternative to taxis. The automobiles frequently transport folks to their latest travel destinations or to aid senior politicians get to important policy meetings. Radio and television stations may also hire them to provide rides to their latest guests. But what is the history behind these elegant automobiles?

The very first limousine was built in the French province of Limousin. It’s said that the covered part of the limousine was thought to resemble the hood customarily worn by shepherds in the province. Other experts claim that limousine drivers often donned a hood much like the one worn by shepherds within the region to protect themselves from unpredictable weather. Whatever the case, the limousine industry became considerable in the modern era, developing particularly in the United States and Europe.

Nowadays there are many varieties of limousines. Although they were uncommon until the 1970s, the limousine industry is over 80 years old. The brainchild of Armbuster Organization, the first stretch limo was built in Fort Smith Arkansas in 1928. At this time, such vehicles typically provided transportation to the trendy large band leaders of the day, among them Benny Goodman and Glenn Miller. In the 1950s, teen sensation Elvis Presley purchased a Lincoln Premier limousine to make use of personally, although the automobiles are usually owned by organizations or institutions. In the 1970s, the limousine business saw its initial huge break.

The 1970s were a time when numerous car producers were beginning to create their own versions of the luxury vehicles. With more and a lot more organizations seeing the appeal of limo travel, another crucial part of the industry emerged- limousine hire. An enterprising young New York entrepreneur named David Klein dreamed that within the future limos will be an everyday sight within the urban landscape of his hometown, akin to its signature yellow taxicabs. When Large Apple taxi drivers went on strike in 1970, Klein got a taste of his wish. His as yet short-lived accomplishment inspired him to embark on a business venture with a friend. Starting with a one-Cadillac fleet, Klein’s business took off within the 1980s. This allowed him to join forces with with a comparable limo company referred to as Solombrino. He hired limo operators and grew the classic stretch limo by adding an added 10 feet for the chassis of stylish Lincoln Town Cars. Feeling the auto was flawless, Klein started to include the leisure amenities common in today’s limos to complete the elegant transportation experience he envisaged.