Rainer Zietlow’s ID. Buzz world record journey makes a pit stop in Malaysia

1. Rainer Zietlow and the ID. Buzz by Petronas KLCC

Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) and Giti Tire Malaysia recently welcomed the famous world record holder Rainer Zietlow to Malaysia at the Volkswagen Glenmarie showroom (F.A. Wagen).

Driving a Volkswagen ID.Buzz, he is on a quest to set a world record for the “most countries visited with an electric vehicle.”

Since starting his journey, Zietlow has traversed 46 countries in 84 days, covering over 46,400 kilometers.

This is Zietlow’s second visit to Malaysia. Previously, he set a record by driving a Volkswagen Touareg in 2012.

For this journey, Zietlow is using an electric ID.Buzz van equipped with GitiSynergy H2 tires.

With advanced tire tread compounds and low rolling resistance, the GitiSynergy H2 tires are designed to support the heavy battery load, control torque instantly, and maximize travel distance.

They also perform excellently on wet surfaces to ensure stability and safety, especially when navigating through regions frequently affected by rain and slippery roads.

According to Renate Noessler, Managing Director of Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia, Volkswagen embodies both innovation and exploration: “The Volkswagen brand is built on engineering excellence and emotional connection — vehicles that are made to move people, both physically and emotionally.

“The ID. Buzz is a modern revival of that legend, the VW Bus, the minibus a beloved icon. The ID. Buzz is carrying the same spirit, but reimagined for a new generation. Rainer’s mission really highlights its performance, reliability, and spirit of exploration that people all around the globe know and love.”

Shiroo Chia, Deputy GM, International Marketing, Giti Tire Group, emphasized how this journey showcases Giti’s technological strength: “Rainer’s ultra-long-distance journey is powerful real-world proof of GitiSynergy H2’s advanced technology and trusted performance. We’re proud that both the automaker and driver rely on Giti to conquer this 80,000-km, 70-country world tour.”

For Zietlow, the partnership between Volkswagen and Giti Tire has been central to his progress so far. “I am very happy to have Volkswagen and Giti Tire alongside me for this journey – the performance of the ID. Buzz and Giti tyres has met my expectations,” he said.

“The driving experience and overall capabilities are very good, and I am confident that I will be able to complete this zero-emissions world record attempt. I am thoroughly enjoying my second visit to Malaysia, and this will definitely not be my last.”