World-record endurance driver Rainer Zietlow recently stopped by Malaysia as part of his Guinness World Record attempt to visit the most countries in an electric vehicle (EV). His trusty steed for the attempt is the Volkswagen ID.Buzz, fitted with Giti Synergy H2 Tyres from Giti Tire, and we got to spend some time with him on his journey from Kuala Lumpur to Malacca.
The world record attempt actually marks Zietlow’s second visit to Malaysia as part of a world record attempt. In 2012, he set a world record in the Volkswagen Touareg, driving from Melbourne, Australia, to St. Petersburg, Russia, in just 17 days. Over a decade later, he has taken on an even bigger challenge with the Volkswagen ID.Buzz to showcase how far mobility has come.
When asked about how to maximise EV range, Zietlaw said, “You have to find a compromise for EV tyres between rolling resistance… making them light, making them smooth, but also strong enough for acceleration during corners and to withstand the weight.”
He also added that speed is a big factor in an EV’s efficiency, suggesting drivers stay below 100 km/h for optimal EV range.
Giti Tire Malaysia (GTM) says the Giti Synergy H2 tyres are more than capable of handling heavier battery loads, instant torque, and maximising the range of EVs. Made with the company’s Advanztech Technology, the tyres are claimed to offer optimal performance, durability, and wet-weather safety across different road conditions.
The Giti Synergy H2 tyres, also the OEM tyres for the Volkswagen ID.Buzz in Europe, were said to be developed at Giti’s research and development centre in Europe. The tyres were also developed from various motorsports the company is involved in, including the 24 hours of Nürburgring.
