Having the electric motor in the wheels would result in the motor being constantly impacted. Unless the motor is built to withstand being dropped from pretty highup and operating as it impacts, one needs to keep the motor inboard of the suspension system. Of course, the motor can be moved closer to the wheels which does cut down on spin loss, so there is a net gain, if you have somewhere to place the motor and mount it securely enough.
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Having the electric motor in the wheels would result in the motor being constantly impacted. Unless the motor is built to withstand being dropped from pretty highup and operating as it impacts, one needs to keep the motor inboard of the suspension system. Of course, the motor can be moved closer to the wheels which does cut down on spin loss, so there is a net gain, if you have somewhere to place the motor and mount it securely enough.