Tire Wear on edges

I'd agree, but then started thinking: what about improving their fuel consumption rating? I would think the tests are done at recommended inflation. Bump the recommended pressure up a bit might get them a better rating, and they'd care about that.

I know of one car, the Honda Fit with automatic, where they took away the temp spare and sub'd an inflation kit, just to cut weight a bit and get a bit better rating.

 

I think rather that Honda fit eliminated the cost of a spare, it's more about $ than weight.

 

The cost to the manufacturer in squeaks & rattles isn't worth the increased fuel economy. The average American driver really doesn't give a crap about FE (how many know what they get or even how to calculate it?) but they do complain about a noisy interior.

I'd say the reasons for manufacturers to remove spare tires (in order) are money, space, & weight.