This effect is clearly visible if you just compare different trims of the same vehicle that use different wheel sizes. For example, the Honda Accord Hybrid suffers a 9 percent loss of efficiency moving from 17- to 19-inch wheels. The Toyota Prius suffers a similar loss between trims, dropping from 57 mpg (4.13 L/100 km) to 52 mpg (4.52 L/100 km). As does the Lucid Air, which loses about 7.5 percent of its range when you swap 19-inch wheels for 21-inch versions.
If this is true then you would think manufacturers would seize upon this fact to increase their fleet fuel economy average.
If this is true then you would think manufacturers would seize upon this fact to increase their fleet fuel economy average.