Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) and Giti Tire Malaysia (GTM) recently welcomed world-record driver Rainer Zietlow to Malaysia as part of his ambitious quest to set a new Guinness World Records title for visiting the most countries in an electric vehicle.
Zietlow has so far travelled across 46 countries in 84 days, covering more than 46,400 kilometres behind the wheel of the all-electric Volkswagen ID. Buzz. This remarkable expedition follows his earlier record-breaking drives, including one in 2012 with the Volkswagen Touareg — a vehicle celebrated for its power and durability.
His current journey in the fully electric ID. Buzz represents the evolution of mobility from combustion engines to sustainable electric performance. This marks Zietlow’s second visit to Malaysia, giving guests a rare opportunity to meet the seasoned adventurer and witness the iconic ID. Buzz up close.
Renate Noessler, Managing Director of Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia, highlighted that Volkswagen has always stood for innovation and emotional connection. “Volkswagen is about engineering excellence and vehicles that move people — both physically and emotionally.
The ID. Buzz revives the legacy of the VW Bus, an icon that defined generations, but now reimagined for a sustainable future. Rainer’s mission perfectly showcases the ID. Buzz’s performance, reliability, and spirit of exploration,” she said.
Integral to this world-record attempt are the GitiSynergy H2 tires, chosen as the original equipment for the ID. Buzz. Electric vehicles demand more from their tires — from supporting heavier battery weights and managing instant torque to ensuring optimal range.
The GitiSynergy H2 is designed to meet these challenges through advanced tread compounds, reinforced construction, and low rolling resistance, while also delivering excellent wet-weather performance for safe and stable driving across diverse road conditions.
Shiroo Chia, Deputy General Manager of International Marketing at Giti Tire Group, noted that the expedition underscores Giti’s technological expertise. “Rainer’s long-distance journey is a powerful real-world validation of GitiSynergy H2’s cutting-edge engineering and dependable performance. We are proud that both Volkswagen and Rainer trust Giti to take on this 80,000-km, 70-country global challenge,” he said.
Zietlow shared his appreciation for the collaboration, saying, “Having Volkswagen and Giti Tire as partners has been essential to this journey. The ID. Buzz and Giti tires have performed beyond expectations.
The driving comfort, range, and reliability have been outstanding, and I am confident about completing this zero-emission world record challenge. It’s great to be back in Malaysia — this visit definitely won’t be my last.”
To celebrate this milestone, VPCM and GTM hosted an event at the Volkswagen Glenmarie (F.A. Wagen) Showroom, bringing together fans, industry partners, and media. The event celebrated innovation, endurance, and sustainability, highlighting how advanced EV and tire technologies are redefining mobility for the future.
