Justin,
I was sort of along the same train of thought on the whole energy use at the wheels... but I was thinking there would be some minimal benefit when doing mountain climbs in free mode where on dry pavement I'm not putting any effort to the front tires when the pedal is to the floor.Just thought I'd throw it out there to add some credence to the debate on the manual hubs. (It's not why I got them anyway)

Maybe next year I'll disconnect the TOD for the trip and further dispel the mpg gains argument - or not!

Also, you better be there next year - and in your VX. Sell your body for the road trip fund, NOT the VX!!