Company Car Drivers Embracing Big Alloy Wheels Trend: Research Shows Rise in Fashion

Are Big Alloy Wheels the New Trend for Company Cars?

When you think of company cars, you may envision uninspiring-looking vehicles that are purely functional. However, new research suggests that big alloy wheels are becoming increasingly popular among fleet users. Data from automotive ecommerce provider Epyx reveals that more than half (56 percent) of company cars are now equipped with alloy wheels that are 18 inches or larger.

This trend towards larger wheels is attributed to the rise in popularity of electric and plug-in hybrid cars, which are more likely to come with bigger rims. In fact, almost three-quarters (74 percent) of electric cars and 63 percent of hybrid cars now come with alloy wheels that are 18 inches or larger.

The growth in alloy wheels beyond 18 inches has been significant over the past few years. In 2021, only 42 percent of company cars had wheels that size, but by 2023, that number had increased to 52 percent. This trend is likely to continue, as the data suggests a rapid increase in company car tyre sizes.

While bigger wheels may offer some cosmetic benefits and marginally improved handling, there are downsides to consider. They are more expensive and more prone to damage, leading to additional costs for fleets. Tim Meadows, CCO of Epyx, notes that the price to pay for larger wheels may not always be worth it, especially when it comes to the types of models and motoring typically seen on fleets.

So, if you’re a company car driver looking to make a statement on the road, big alloy wheels may be the way to go. Just be prepared for the potential costs and maintenance that come with them. And who knows, maybe your car could even become a Hot Wheels die-cast toy one day!