The word “limousine” is believed to have originated in the French region of Limousin. The first automotive limousine was designed in 1902, with a covered compartment for the driver. This design was inspired by the hood worn by people from Limoges. In German-speaking countries, a limousine is simply a sedan, while a car with a longer wheelbase is called a Pullman Limousine.
The origin of the word limousine is thought to be related to the cape worn by locals in Limoges. This cape had a hood that extended over the user's face. It is possible that this type of bonnet or carriage roof inspired the design of the first limousines. Hackney carriages are also considered to be a type of limousine, although they are not usually identified as such in Great Britain.
Over time, limousines have come to refer specifically to luxurious, elongated versions of sedans, especially in the United States. Airport shuttle services are often referred to as limousine services, although they usually use minibuses. A luxury sedan with a very long wheelbase (with more than four doors) driven by a professional driver is called an elastic limousine.
