A ride like no other

LEKOPANYE MOOKETSI
Correspondent | Friday August 20, 2010 00:00

 

The company has introduced a limousine service in the form of a modified BMW X5 with a long base.  The black limo, which could be mistaken for a hearse is about nine metres long and takes eight passengers. The owners of the company, said they have been offering the limo service since the beginning of the year. 

The chauffeur of the limo, Dino Patel said the demand for their services is high.  They are fully booked for the month. Their services are mostly in high demand during the weekend when there are social functions. On Saturday, the limo was booked for a wedding ceremony to transport a bridal couple in Ramotswa.

Patel was found cleaning the vehicle with his assistants to prepare for the weekend event.  He said when it hits the road, it has to be in immaculate condition. 

The limo has been booked for another wedding ceremony in Ramatlabama next weekend.  The limo is hired for events like weddings, airport pick-ups and mobile advertising. It transported contestants in the Miss Botswana and Inter-Bank beauty pageants. Other clients include students who have been booking the car for parties. 

However, Patel said the car has not been booked by any international celebrity yet. The limo has been shuttling to and from the Sir Seretse Khama International Airport to pick and drop passengers. 

On Thursday, it was at the airport parking bay where it had gone to pick a couple. 

The passengers could be seen sipping cocktails in the car and chatting to admirers who had gathered around the limo.  The curious onlookers were quizzing the chauffeur about the strange looking vehicle and some wondered if they could be taken for a cruise.  Others were making enquiries for future bookings.

The leather interior of the limo resembles a luxury lounge. 

There is a television screen and radio set as well as a mini-bar. Once on board, passengers are treated to complimentary champagne. 

Patel said his passengers are entitled to privacy. There is a barrier between the driver's cabin and the passenger's 'lounge'. The chauffeur only communicates with passengers through an intercom.

Navigating a car of that length is not an easy task especially when reversing.  But for Patel, it is not a big deal as he says you only need experience. Even finding a suitable parking space can be a challenge at times.

Patel said his limo does not drive at high speed.  He said the passengers have to feel the comfort of the car. 

'We want our customers to be comfortable.  It is an elegant and comfortable car,' he said.