Giti-shod ID. Buzz aims for Guinness World Record
Giti Tire has partnered with Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles (VWCV) to support Challenge4’s Guinness World Record attempt to visit the most countries in a single electric vehicle.
Covering over 80,000 kilometres and taking in about 75 countries across the continents of Europe, Central Asia, Africa, Oceania, Asia, Latin and North America, the journey is set to take more than eight months.
The man behind the mission is the founder of Challenge4 GmbH, Rainer Zietlow, who already holds eight Guinness World Records. His Volkswagen ID. Buzz is fitted with GitiSynergyH2 tyres in sizes 235/60 R18 on the front and 255/55 R18 on the rear axles, as per the Original Equipment (OE) agreement which commenced with VWCV in September 2023.
The fitment was the manufacturer’s first electric vehicle nomination in Europe, and Giti will be using the Guinness World Record attempt to demonstrate its advanced EV tyre technology by proving performance under real-world conditions and long-term commitment to durability, safety and sustainability.
The AAA-rated tyres utilise a new generation of tread compound which was developed to solve the technical development challenges of achieving significantly reduced rolling resistance without compromising on wear and the key safety elements of wet and dry braking and handling.
The Guinness World Record attempt commenced this week at VWCV’s headquarters in Hannover, Germany and will subsequently travel to all major cities in Europe on its first leg.
With a supply of spare parts on standby in case of emergencies, Zietlow’s ID. Buzz will travel across Europe, from Germany to Scandinavia, the Baltics, Switzerland, Belgium and The Netherlands before arriving to Ireland on Tuesday, 8th July.
Zietlow will spend less than 24 hours in Ireland, visiting the Liffey Valley headquarters of Volkswagen Group Ireland and presenting to staff before heading to the UK by ferry.
Stefan Brohs, marketing director – Europe for Giti Tire, said: “This marks the first joint global EV record tour for Rainer which is supported by Giti Tire and Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, reinforcing both brands’ commitment to innovation and sustainability.
“This magnificent opportunity allows us to reinforce Giti’s leadership in EV tyre technology and amplify our global brand visibility via high-impact storytelling and brand content across global regions.
“It also strengthens our OE credentials through visible support in a common project, which in turn will help deepen engagement with distributors, dealers and partners around the globe.”
Paul Hunt, brand director for Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Ireland, added: “I very much look forward to welcoming Rainer and his ID. Buzz to Ireland. Travelling the world in any vehicle is a challenge but, embarking on this challenge lets everyone know just what is possible in an electric vehicle.”