Problems with Vex Pro mecanum wheels

[Ether]

It's the reaction force of the floor on the wheel which causes acceleration of the vehicle.

In the ideal case of no roller friction or axial free play, and a non-compliant floor, the acceleration force in the strafing direction is the same as the accelerating force in the forward direction.

The affordable mecanum wheels used for FRC do not have thrust ball bearings on the rollers. The rollers have axial free play. The rollers have spinning friction (especially when loaded). The carpet is compliant. That's what makes the vehicle go slower in the strafing direction.