Learn what is a chauffeur service, the origins of the name, why people get a chauffeur, how much they cost, and types of chauffeur-driven journeys.
Chauffeur services
A chauffeur is a person hired or employed to drive a luxury passenger motor vehicle, such as a large car/sedan, limousine or people carrier. The French origin of the word “chauffeur”, means “one that heats”. The first chauffeurs stoked steam engines to keep them running.
Why do people get a chauffeur?
People and organisations will hire or employ a chauffeur company service or personal chauffeur for their luxury transportation needs. They may many reasons to hire a chauffeur, but some of the most common are:
- To get things done while travelling
- Minimise the stress, frustrations & improve safety of travelling
- No need to find a parking spot and park the car
- Improved time keeping and reliability
- The chauffeur can carry out errands while waiting for passengers
- The chauffeur can help with luggage and shopping
- To carry out routine maintenance, for example oil level and tyre pressures
How much is a chauffeur?
In the UK a Mercedes S-Class/V-Class/EQV quality chauffeur car/van will cost around £65 per hour. But most private hire companies will provide single and return journey prices if requested.
Some chauffeurs are employed full-time by individuals, so their cost will be their average salary, which will be somewhere in the region of £30 to £70,000 per annum.
What is the difference between a chauffeur and driver?
A chauffeur is as adapt at looking after the needs of the passenger, as much as they are of the vehicle. A good driver of passengers would do that too, but there are some areas where a chauffeur stands out in comparison to a ‘regular’ driver.
A chauffeur will be attired in a smart suit, with tie and polished shoes. Their presentation is an integral part of their duties. They drive some very important people, who normally expect their chauffeurs to be smart, professional and presentable.
Learn more about the differences between a chauffeur and a driver.
How much is chauffeur for a day?
Private chauffeur-driven hire rates will be between £400 and £600 per 8 hour day. Additional expenses include parking, and any tolls. This is for a typical chauffeur car from a Mercedes E-Class to a S or V-Class. Prices for super-luxury limousines will be much more, and lesser executive vehicles.
How much do the best chauffeurs cost?
Also, some chauffeurs are “super-chauffeurs”, these great chauffeurs are very much sought after and the cost of hiring from the rarefied heights of the best chauffeurs can be considerably more expensive.
Types of chauffeur-driven journeys
Chauffeurs are available for all types of journeys. From business to pleasure, from weddings to funerals, chauffeurs will drive you in style.
- As Directed Hire – the bread and butter of private hire single & return journeys
- Single and return journeys
- Airport Transfers – VIP meet and greet services for airport transfers.
- Business Travel – Financial road shows, corporate hospitality, airport transfers and event travel
- Weddings, funerals, proms, and other important occasions
- Chauffeur-driven tours
Choosing a chauffeur service
There are many private hire businesses, so what should you look for in choosing a chauffeur service to meet your needs?
Locality is a good place to start. Obviously you want to use a service that is based in or familiar with where you live and work. Do you wish to speak to someone about you booking? If so, you need a company with a traditional office team. Some companies operate via an app only or by website bookings. Which is all very well until you leave your brolly in the car!
Whatever company you choose it is important to choose a licensed private hire operator. Chauffeur companies in London, UK should be registered with Transport for London’s (TfL) Public Carriage Office (PCO). Other areas have different licensing boards.
You could try searching for a “chauffeur service near me” or “chauffeur London” for example, to get a local service to you.
Eco friendly chauffeur services
It might be very important for you to choose the most environmentally friendly chauffeur company. You could choose to find a business which offers hybrid and all-electric chauffeur vehicles. Many different luxury cars are available with hybrid power now. And with the arrival of the Mercedes-Benz EQV, you can travel with up to 6 other passengers in this luxurious electric vehicle (EV).
You might also want to consider companies that include carbon offsetting or who invest in other projects to support their sustainability targets.
The drive to electric chauffeur cars began with hybrid, and later all-electric luxury chauffeur vehicles. The super-luxury sector will shortly be augmented with the arrival of the first all-electric Rolls-Royce, the Spectre.
The best chauffeur service
Depending on your needs your ideal provider might be the best chauffeur service available at any cost, or you might prefer a more affordable private hire executive service.
Whatever organisation you choose, enjoy the experience! Remember, life is not about the destination. It is all about the journey.