What is the impact of a vehicle's weight on fuel efficiency and emissions?

The understanding that heavier vehicles generally have lower fuel efficiency and higher emissions is rooted in the principles of physics and automotive engineering. The fuel efficiency of a vehicle is significantly influenced by its weight; as the weight increases, more energy is required to move the vehicle. This additional energy demand typically results in increased fuel consumption. Consequently, a heavier vehicle tends to burn more fuel to achieve the same acceleration and maintain speed compared to a lighter vehicle.

From an emissions perspective, the environmental impact is directly linked to the amount of fuel consumed. Higher fuel consumption translates to increased emissions of greenhouse gases and other pollutants, as more fuel burned leads to more byproducts released into the atmosphere. Therefore, heavier vehicles not only consume more fuel but also contribute more to environmental degradation due to greater emissions.

In contrast, lighter vehicles generally have a design that allows for better fuel efficiency, as they require less energy to operate. This efficiency contributes to reduced emissions, making them a preferable choice for both fuel economy and environmental concerns.