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Vent on passenger side rear seat... What is it?

Discussion in 'Gen 3 Prius Main Forum' started by nola_Prius, Jun 28, 2009.

  1. nola_Prius

    nola_Prius New Member

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    I've been checking out the new Prius models at a local dealer, and while test driving a model V, I noticed what looked like an air conditioning vent on the passenger side of the rear seat.

    What is that??
    I thought it to be an A/C vent, but didn't feel air coming out of it...and couldn't understand why it would only be on one side of the seat and not on the other side...

    Then I thought maybe it was part of the solar ventilation system, but this was a model V, which of course did NOT have the solar package.

    Sorry for the dumb question, but I was/am puzzled and curious.
     
    #1 nola_Prius, Jun 28, 2009
  2. Paradox

    Paradox Prius Enthusiast / Moderator
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    It is where the hybrid battery is cooled thru, do not block it...
     
    #2 Paradox, Jun 28, 2009
  3. nola_Prius

    nola_Prius New Member

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    Interesting... I never would have suspected that.
    Thanks for the quick answer ;)
     
    #3 nola_Prius, Jun 28, 2009
  4. Paradox

    Paradox Prius Enthusiast / Moderator
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    No problem... It used to be higher on the seat in the Gen II, now they moved it to the bottom.

    Here's the hybrid battery behind the rear seats, w/o the cover on top of it. It allows cabin air in to cool the battery

    [​IMG]
     
    #4 Paradox, Jun 28, 2009
  5. cycledrum

    cycledrum PSOCSOASP

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    Bit strange they lowered the vent. Seems more likely a jacket can flop over and block the vent, or not.

    Only one time I've heard a fan running inside the vent. I guess the battery needed cooling quickly.
     
    #5 cycledrum, Jun 28, 2009
  6. Paradox

    Paradox Prius Enthusiast / Moderator
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    Funny you mention that, I never heard it in my Gen II, but I've actually heard it quite a few times now in my Gen III. I wonder if it's a bigger fan now or maybe with the modifications they made in cooling for the pack it just places the fan in a spot where it can be heard running easier now...
     
    #6 Paradox, Jun 28, 2009
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