• First CFD-based aerodynamic analysis of the innovative elastic ring-hinge group non-pneumatic mechanical elastic wheel (ME-Wheel).
• Steering angle has a more significant effect on lift and drag than camber angle, while speed has negligible influence on drag and lift coefficients.
• The number of hinge groups significantly affects aerodynamic characteristics, with deviations up to 8.6% in lift coefficient.
• Provides a theoretical foundation for aerodynamic optimization and commercial development of ME-Wheels.