Whether it’s for a gala or a night out on the town, hiring a professional limo in Sarasota is a great way to make an occasion more special. However, a chauffeur and a fancy car are nothing new. In fact, the concept has been around for more than a century. Here are a few other interesting limo facts that you might not know. 1. The driver was originally left outside. The first limousine was created in 1902. However, they weren’t nearly as extravagant or long as the vehicles we see today. While they were considered to be top of the line and reserved for the aristocrats and upper class, they were designed specifically with privacy in mind. For this reason, the driver’s portion of the vehicle was uncovered and completely separate from the passengers’ cab. The passengers’ area was completely covered and enclosed, keeping them warm during the winter. The driver, however, was only protected by a type of sunroof. While modern day limousines still do offer a type of partition separating the driver from the passengers, at least the driver isn’t left out in the cold anymore. 2. Where did the limo get its name from? The word “limousine” is derived from a region in central France called Limousin. This area is well-known for a traditional cloak that the local shepherds wear. These hoods are used to protect them from the cold weather and elements as they tend to their sheep. When the first limousine was built, it resembled this iconic clothing item. So, the name “limousine” was coined. In recent times, however, the nickname “limo” has become quite popular. 3. Stretch limos were first used as a type of tour bus. Stretch limos didn’t make an appearance until 1928. It was first created for big bands, among the most popular musical acts during that time. However, it looked more like a bus. This large vehicle was made to be luxurious but at the same time provide the storage needed for the bands to haul around all of their gear. The fad caught on, though. Once the bands began touring in their limo-buses, many other artists and musicians began using these types of stretched vehicles to accommodate their needs. 4. Limos were the first vehicles to have a passenger cooling system. In 1939, the first air-conditioning unit for a car was installed. And, you guessed it—it was placed inside of a limo! The Packard Motor Company, based out of New York, first designed the model to be placed in luxury vehicles. However, it was costly. In order to have one installed, the price ran upwards of $275. Also, the air conditioner itself wasn’t very reliable or efficient. In fact, it took up almost all of the trunk space. The first models also didn’t have a thermometer to help regulate and monitor the temperature of the car. It was an enjoyable amenity regardless. In fact, limos were the only vehicles to have air conditioning until 20 years later. 5. The longest limo in history. Nowadays, limos come in all shapes and sizes. From stretch SUVs to pink Cadillacs, the choices are endless. The longest limo, however, was over 100 feet long. It was a Lincoln manufactured in California in 1997. Because it was so big, the vehicle had to have over 26 wheels in order to support its body. It also had two driver’s cabins, a hot tub, fax machines, four televisions, and an air conditioner. Due to its length, a hinged middle was necessary. This allowed the car to bend and fold as turns were made. Hiring a professional limo in Sarasota is an excellent way to make any occasion more memorable. Schedule your luxurious vehicle today!
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