Real bicycles also have larger wheels for a reason - its much more efficient and rolls over bumps and ruts much easier.

What do you mean by efficient?

https://www.schwalbetires.com/tech_info/rolling_resistance:

“Tires with a smaller diameter have a higher rolling resistance with the same inflation pressure, because tire deformation is proportionally greater. The tire is flattened more and is “less round”.”

This only means that smaller diameter tires need higher inflation pressure for the equivalent rolling resistance (or rather, deformation). That only becomes a problem when you approach the limits of the material (eg. you can't inflate it any more).

Thanks to the German company wehave this explanation. Ein hoch auf uns!

i don't know what he meant by it, but large wheels are better "flywheels" and that storage of momentum might make sustained pedaling easier.

Why would a larger bicycle be less eco-friendly than a small, intricate bicycle with many bespoke components?

I presume the parent meant that "not riding a bike because it makes you look dorky - and instead riding a car" is less ecofriendly.

Correct, this is unfortunately how humans work. It has to have that cool factor.