In keeping with its half-century-long tradition of providing superlative transportation for its guests, The Peninsula Hong Kong recently introduced four bespoke Bentley Bentayga Extended Wheelbase (EWB) Azure SUVs to its automotive fleet. The new cars join the hotel’s already-legendary collection of exquisite vehicles – which includes 14 Rolls-Royce Extended Wheelbase Phantoms and a magnificently refurbished 1934 Phantom II.
The arrival of the new vehicles at The Peninsula Hong Kong was greeted in a grand celebration. The handover ceremony at the hotel’s forecourt on 26 November 2024, was held in the presence of The Hon. Sir Michael Kadoorie, Non-Executive Chairman of The Hongkong and Shanghai Hotels, Ltd. (HSH), who received the keys to the new Bentayga EWB Azures from the CEO of Bentley Motors, Dr. Frank-Steffen Walliser.
“The acquisition of these vehicles is a truly momentous occasion for The Peninsula,” said Joseph W.Y. Chong, Regional Executive Vice President, Asia, and Managing Director of The Peninsula Hong Kong. “Not only does it align with our legacy of offering the finest available transport to our guests; it also reflects our dedication to providing them with unparalleled experiences at every turn.”
Dr. Frank-Steffen Walliser, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Bentley Motors commented, “On behalf of Bentley Motors, it was a pleasure to present these four magnificent bespoke Bentaygas to Sir Michael Kadoorie and The Peninsula Hong Kong. The team of artisans at our Dream Factory in Crewe, England, which individually handcrafted and personalised these cars are rightly proud of the end result, and we are delighted that The Peninsula Hotels continues to adopt Bentleys into their chauffeur fleets.”
A New Generation of Luxury Ride
The automotive collection – which includes the classic Rolls-Royce Phantoms, Bentley Bentaygas, and Toyota Alphards – ensuring that hotel guests experience The Peninsula’s signature elegance and comfort during every part of their journey. Both the Bentley Bentayga EWB Azures and the hotel’s four new bespoke Toyota Alphards epitomise a new generation of extra-spacious and sporty transport for guests of The Peninsula Hong Kong.
The Bentayga EWB Azure is a super SUV whose striking design and expansive interiors offer unparalleled comfort to passengers. The hotel’s vehicles feature custom bodywork in signature Peninsula green, with hushed self-closing extended rear doors, and opulent inner compartments with custom-quilted seat backs, veneered picnic tables, individual entertainment screens, a rear control panel, signature audio systems, and Bentley mood lighting. Bespoke extras include a rear-seat massage function, dual wireless chargers in the front and rear seats, and spacious leather-clad luggage compartments.
The hybrid-electric Toyota Alphards, meanwhile, offer ample and eco-friendly transit for family and executive groups. Each has the capacity to seat 6 passengers and is equipped with a myriad of
customised Peninsula extras. These include handheld remote devices for climate control, seats, and lighting, as well as a massage function in the middle rear seats; additionally, a state-of-the-art JBL sound system and a heads-up display showing speed and maps adds both convenience and entertainment during rides.
A Legacy of Superb Transport
Luxury cars have been associated with The Peninsula Hong Kong since the hotel’s earliest days, when the local Studebaker dealership and showroom were located in the rear of the East Wing. The hotel operated its own taxis for many years, before introducing its very first fleet of 5 Lincoln Continentals, a Ford Galaxie, and a station wagon.
In 1970, as part of its continuous efforts to offer guests the most stylish available transport, the hotel made a momentous purchase: a fleet of 7 Rolls-Royce Silver Shadows. The order was the largest ever placed with Rolls-Royce for a single model, and made headlines all over the world. In ensuing years, The Peninsula subsequently broke its own record several times, each time updating its fleet with new collections of splendidly customised Rolls-Royce sedans.
In 2006, the hotel made Rolls-Royce history once again with its acquisition of the 14 Extended Wheelbase Phantoms that still hold pride of place in its fleet. Each of these cars has been impeccably customised to Peninsula specifications, with interiors finished in rich leather and burled walnut, and thoughtful details like customised tread plates, umbrellas, extra capacious luggage compartments, and cooling boxes for chilled hand towels.
Today, transport in a superb luxury vehicle has become an iconic part of a Peninsula Hong Kong stay. From its elegant 1934 Phantom II Sedanca de Ville to its newest super SUVs, the hotel fleet ensures guests enjoy the quintessential Peninsula experience – even away from the property.