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If they had built it shaped like the XL-1 (VDub), it would have had an even better Cd.
Just because it is not "Ideal" does it mean that it's awful, it's not all black & white. In looking at the shape of the EV1 from the top, we see the sides really flow together more than most shapes. I think this helps to balance the "faster than the curve shape" of the side view taper that you refer too. By balance, I mean the pressures are all equalizing at the same time so you are not generating turbulence as you would if the top was dropping fast and the sides stayed flat.
So, not ideal, supported by other aero design elements, still very efficient.
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