Wouldnt a solid rubber tire do the same job with no risk of punctures?
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A solid rubber tire would significantly increase two undesirable variables, both of which relate directly to both fuel efficiency and ride quality:
1. Unsprung weight — wheels, tires, brakes, etc are all unsuspended components, which means they are below the suspension on your vehicle. The heavier these are, the harder it is to get your vehicle moving from a stop. Takes more power, more gas, more time, and is harder on the drivetrain.
2. Rigidity — If you could get hit in the face with a lacrosse ball or a dodgeball, which would you choose? Dodgeball is a thin rubber shell with a lot of air inside; it might hurt if it was thrown hard, but you’d be fine. Lacrosse ball on the other hand is thick dense rubber to the core and if it hits you in the face at high speed you’re probably gonna need stitches, dental work, and/or a trip to the hospital. Solid rubber tire on a car is a lacrosse ball up your butt, is my point. And nobody wants that.
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