We are pleased to announce that Exceptional Limousine is now part of Executive Transportation Services, dba ETS International. Click the button above to take advantage of special limited-time offers commemorating this new partnership!
What is a Chauffeur, Exactly?
A person who's job it is to navigate a motor vehicle with passengers is often referred to as a driver chauffeur. One of the things that differentiates a chauffeur from a bus or taxi driver is that a chauffeur usually pilots a luxury vehicle, like a sedan or limousine for a special client.
Chauffeurs were originally servants that were employed by the owner of the car and acted as the personal driver anytime the employer wanted to go somewhere. Today, while that form of chauffeur still exists to a lesser extent, a new breed of chauffeur is more predominant as businesses such as an executive chauffeur service provide both the driver and the vehicle upon request by a client.
The term "chauffeur" has roots in the French term for stoker. Early automobiles were steam powered and had to be heated up before use. Only the wealthiest of people could afford the first vehicles and they usually hired someone to not only drive them around, but to also get the car stoked for driving. Basically, chauffeur means "heater-upper". Now, all the stoking those working for an executive chauffeur service must do involves simply turning a key.
A chauffeur definitely refers to a more specialized kind of driver. "Driver" could be used in reference to anyone at the wheel of a motorized vehicle that is transporting any number of passengers. Chauffeurs conjure images of a bit more elegance, and for good reason, as they typically are equipped with more luxurious modes of transportation. An executive chauffeur service often provides the driver and vehicle for business people, athletes, and anyone in need of a more customizable transport experience.
The reasons for choosing an executive chauffeur service are varied and extensive. Not only are chauffeurs a convenient option that saves time and increases productivity, but they are also much safer than other modes of transportation. All employees for an executive chauffeur service have excellent knowledge of the cities in which they operate and often times have excellent recommendations for visitors.
An executive chauffeur service requires their chauffeurs to undergo extra training in addition to meeting minimum legal requirements. Training usually includes evasive/defensive driving techniques, methods that ensure proper safety during extreme weather conditions, how to handle dangerous and emergency situations, and also proper etiquette around clientele. One of the many benefits hiring an executive chauffeur service includes peace of mind by knowing you are in the capable, experienced hands of a professional chauffeur.
Also, how can chauffeurs be discussed without mentioning those snazzy uniforms? Proper physical presence and appearance are a standard across the industry. A well-groomed individual wearing a conservative, clean, dark suit is often also done up in a matching tie, shoes, and gloves. It is common for an executive chauffeur service to require their employees to wear complete uniforms and even the occasional hat.
No matter how you choose to reach your destination, a professional from an executive chauffeur service is sure to be a positive experience that keeps customers coming back for more, time and time again.
At ETS International, we take pride in our professionally trained and impeccably attired chauffeurs. To learn more, click here.