A 'limousine' (or 'limo') is a luxury sedan or saloon car, especially one with a
lengthened wheelbase or driven by a chauffeur. The chassis of a limousine may
have been extended by the manufacturer or by an independent coach builder. These
are referred to as "stretch" limousines and are traditionally black or white in
color. Limousines are often driven by chauffeurs and until the mid-1990s were
most often associated with the wealthy. They are also used for special occasions
such as weddings, parties and sight-seeing tours. While some limousines are owned by individuals, many are owned by governments to
transport senior politicians, by large companies to transport executives, or by
broadcasters to transport guests. Most stretch limousines, however, operate as
livery vehicles, providing upmarket competition to taxicabs. Most builders of
stretch limousines are located in the United States and Europe and cater mainly
to limousine companies. Few stretch limousines are sold new to private
individuals. In addition to luxuries, security features such as armoring and
bulletproof glass are available.
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