The German long distance driver is chasing after another world record, this time featuring one of Volkswagen’s electric icons
Singapore – On 8th October, Volkswagen Singapore and GITI Tire welcomed renowned driver Rainer Zietlow to Singapore on his journey to set a new Guinness World Record™ for the most countries visited in an electric vehicle, his weapon of choice being the all-electric ID. Buzz. His stop in Singapore showcased the ID. Buzz’s electric performance and GITI’s high-performance tyres, celebrating adventure, innovation, and sustainable mobility.
Since the start of his journey, Zietlow travelled through 46 countries in 84 days, covering more than 46,400 kilometres in the all-electric people-mover. The journey is particularly significant as 2025 marks the 75th anniversary of the Volkswagen Bus, an enduring icon which shows no sign of slowing down.
He previously set records in the Volkswagen Touareg in 2012, a model known for its strength and versatility, making his current journey in the ID. Buzz a powerful symbol of how far mobility has come. This stop also marks Zietlow’s second visit to Singapore, providing guests with an opportunity to see the iconic EV in action and meet the man behind the wheel.
According to Dr. Kurt Leitner, Managing Director of Volkswagen Group Singapore, 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 the legendary VW Bus, a beloved icon. The ID. Buzz is carrying the same spirit but reimagined for a new generation. Rainer’s mission highlights the performance, reliability, and spirit of exploration that people all around the globe know and love about Volkswagen and our buses.”
Equally critical to this attempt are the GitiSynergy H2 tires, which Volkswagen selected as the original equipment fitment for the ID. Buzz. EVs present unique challenges for tires, from handling the heavier loads of battery packs to managing instant torque and maximizing range. The GitiSynergy H2 addresses all these demands with advanced tread compounds, low rolling resistance, and reinforced construction. Just as importantly, they are well rated for wet performance, ensuring stability and safety across the many regions where rainfall and slippery roads are unavoidable.
Shiroo Chia, Deputy GM, International Marketing, Giti Tire Group, emphasised 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 Singapore, and this will definitely not be my last.”
Volkswagen Singapore and Giti Tire’s joint event at Volkswagen Centre Singapore, gave guests the opportunity to get up close and personal with the driver, car and tyres. Zietlow’s arrival in Singapore marks a significant milestone in a journey that is not only pushing the boundaries of electric mobility but also demonstrating the vital role of advanced tire technology in ensuring safety, endurance, and efficiency across continents.
Text: Titus Tang
Photos: Clifford Chow
